What Is Prosthodontics? Understanding The Basics About Restorative Dentistry

If your teeth have been damaged due to a dental health issue like gum disease or tooth decay, or if you’ve suffered from an oral injury, you’ll most likely need to see a prosthodontist. Dr. Vinson of Advanced Dentistry of Mount Pleasant is an expert prosthodontist, and she helps patients return to optimal health and a beautiful smile after their teeth have been damaged.

Dr. Vinson specializes in tooth replacements and restorative dentistry. Want to know more about prosthodontics, and how Dr. Vinson can help you with specialized care when you need to restore your smile? Here are a few questions we hear often about prosthodontics:

What Is Prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry that’s concerned with the design, manufacturing, fitting, and placement of replacement teeth and other parts of the mouth. Essentially, prosthodontists are specialists in restorative dentistry, and they’re able to take on advanced and complex cases that general dentists may not be able to complete.

The primary function of prosthodontists is to replace missing teeth with dental implants, dentures, dental crowns and bridges, or other restorative treatments. They also specialize in gum care and full-mouth restorations.

How Is a Prosthodontist Different From Other Dentists?

Prosthodontists have to go through advanced training that gives them a deep understanding of the structures of the mouth, and best practices for replacing missing teeth and damaged tissue.

The ADA recognizes prosthodontics as a specialty. To become a prosthodontist, a dentist must complete three years of advanced training and education in an ADA-accredited prosthodontic graduate program.

During this time, prosthodontists learn how to handle the most complex oral and facial problems, and how to restore jaw and gum structures as well as missing teeth. Most prosthodontists are trained in cosmetic dentistry, restorative treatments, and even advanced fields like the treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMJ and TMD).

Why Should I See A Prosthodontist?

There are a few reasons to consider seeing a prosthodontist, rather than a general or cosmetic dentist:

• They’re highly-qualified experts – Unlike some general dentists, who start performing restorative dentistry after just a few weekend courses, prosthodontists are highly-qualified specialists when it comes to replacing missing teeth.
  

• Experience with cutting-edge technology – Prosthodontists use the latest dental technology and surgical best practices to provide better results.
  
  
• Manage the most complex cases – From extreme cases of gum disease that have resulted in massive tooth loss and require full mouth rehabilitation, to traumatic facial injuries, genetic defects, and more, prosthodontists have been trained to handle even the most difficult dental cases.‍

Learn More About Prosthodontics From Dr. Candice Vinson!‍

Whether you’re considering a reconstructive or cosmetic dental procedure, a prosthodontist can help with expert care and specialized treatments. Dr. Vinson is a highly-qualified prosthodontist, and she has the skills, technology, and depth of experience necessary to provide beautiful, long-lasting results. Take a look at our reviews to get more details!

Give us a call at (843) 936-1690 or drop by our office at 1149 Oakland Market Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 to learn more about Advanced Dentistry of Mount Pleasant and how we can help improve your dental health.