What is a Prosthodontist?
The term “prostho” means replacement and “dontist” means dealing with teeth.
Essentially, prosthodontists are the recognized experts for replacing anything in your mouth. This can range from a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth and gums in the mouth. Prosthodontists are also skilled in managing temporomandibular joint disorders and problems with the occlusion (bite). While many other dentists can do some of these treatments, prosthodontists are the specialists dedicated to this type of care.
Prosthodontists are dentists who have undergone further advanced training after completing their undergraduate dental degree to give them the extra knowledge, skills and competency required to plan and manage more complex restorative dental problems. Training involves the equivalent of three years full time postgraduate university study and covers a broad range of skills that equip a Prosthodontist to be able to treat a variety of reconstructive problems; from improving smiles and appearance, to rebuilding broken down dentitions, and restoring patients with few or no teeth back to dental function again.
A significant aspect of the prosthodontic discipline involves gathering detailed diagnostic data from the patient, often taking into consideration a variety of options to provide solutions relevant to the patient’s specific needs and problems. This enables the Prosthodontist to present customised treatment options for the patient that are the most appropriate and likely to succeed. Specialist training fosters the ability to critically evaluate new information, treatment concepts and technologies as they appear to ensure that, where possible, current evidence-based treatment principles are adhered to.
The aim of treatment is to ensure that the patient is provided with a superior and stable long-term result rather than a “quick fix” solution, which might break down relatively early or even damage previously healthy teeth and gums.
Prosthodontists use a variety of clinical techniques to achieve optimal outcomes for their patients including using composite resin to initially reconstruct and build up teeth, followed by placement of porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges, removable partial and complete(full) dentures, reconstructions involving dental implants, as well as more basic general dental procedures.
Prosthodontists are often considered the architects of dentistry, as they are often the key influence in planning and coordinating treatment involving many disciplines. To this end, Prosthodontists often work closely with other dental specialists such as Periodontists, Oral Surgeons, Endodontists and Orthodontists to ensure an optimal outcome is reached for their patients.
The Dental Council of New Zealand recognises prosthodontics as a specialty, and many patients prefer the security this affords them prior to embarking on what may be complex and/ or expensive treatment.
Why choose a Prosthodontist?
By choosing a prosthodontist you can be sure to benefit from their advanced education and training, efficiency, and expertise with advanced technology. Prosthodontists are extensively trained in state-of-the-art techniques and procedures for treating complex dental conditions and restoring optimum function and aesthetics. Rigorous training and experience give prosthodontists a special understanding of the dynamics of a smile and the preservation of a healthy mouth.
