Prosthodontist: Definition and What do they do?

A prosthodontist is a dental practitioner who specialises in complex oral health and facial issues, such as reconstructing and substituting missing or broken teeth with prostheses. Prosthodontists have received deep knowledge of dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, jaw abnormalities, and other procedures. A prosthodontist restores natural teeth and replaces lost ones, unlike a regular dentist. Missing or extracted teeth are replaced with prosthetic teeth (dentures). Prosthodontists have received advanced training to work with patients with head and neck malformations, repairing missing jaw and face pieces. Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry that creates a dental prosthesis (or prostheses) for damaged or missing teeth. The term “prosthodontics” is derived from the words “prostho,” which means replacement, and “dontist,” which means teeth.

What is a Prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a dentist who specialises in restoring and replacing missing teeth and other oral components. They design, manufacture, and fit artificial alternatives such as dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, and veneers to restore patients' functionality, aesthetics, and comfort. A prosthodontist is a type of dental specialist who treats complex dental and face conditions such as congenital abnormalities, trauma-related injuries, and excessive tooth wear. A prosthodontist is considered a “dentist who specialises in dentures” or a “dentist specialist in crowns.”Prosthodontists are one of the types of dental specialists who must complete a certification exam before becoming board-certified professionals.

A prosthodontist must first earn a dental degree (Bachelor of Dental Surgery or BDS, BChD, or MChD), which takes five years. A licenced prosthodontist must complete a dentistry degree from an approved university, which includes academic and clinical training. Basic knowledge helps diagnose and treat dental disorders and provide specialised care for patients who need prosthetic devices. They must complete an approved prosthodontic residency programme for three more years of specialised instruction. Prospective prosthodontists with a dental degree pursue a three-year specialty study authorised by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh or England. The requirements include two years of clinical experience.

Gain practical experience in prosthodontics through residency programmes, education courses, and mentorships, which help them improve their clinical skills, judgement, and decision-making. Direct experience diagnosing and treating complex oral problems, creating personalised prosthetic devices, and enhancing interpersonal and communication skills with patients and dental staff. Prosthodontists possess many skills, including technical dentistry, medical knowledge, and transferable soft skills.

Ongoing education empowers prosthodontists to stay current on technology, materials, and techniques, enhancing clinical skills, patient outcomes, and professional competence. It helps to retain competitiveness and broaden employment options in the dentistry sector. The advanced training entails considerable clinical experience, intensive education, and research in restorative dentistry, dental materials, implantology, and maxillofacial prostheses. The training allows prosthodontists to handle complex dental problems and use sophisticated techniques and materials for the best patient results.

What is Prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry that designs, fabricates, and fits artificial substitutes for teeth and other oral structures. Their purpose is to help patients with lost or damaged teeth and the tissues supporting their oral and facial function, comfort, and beauty. A prosthodontist, an expert in prosthodontics, achieves such goals by utilising dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, and veneers. Tooth loss is a common problem in prosthodontics, and it is caused by decay, injury, or periodontal disease. It impacts a patient's appearance, self-confidence, and ability to chew and speak normally. Worn or broken teeth are another common concern, resulting from grinding, clenching, or ordinary wear and tear over time.

Prosthodontics treats congenital or acquired head and neck deformities, such as cleft palate or facial injuries, by providing prosthetic treatments that improve function and appearance. Prosthodontics is critical to improving the quality of life for people with substantial dental and oral health difficulties. Prosthodontists cure difficult situations involving many lost teeth or significant jawbone degradation, needing advanced operations such as bone grafts or sinus lifts to support dental implants.

What does a Prosthodontist do?

A prosthodontist is a dental professional who specialises in restoring and rehabilitating teeth to enhance the performance and look of a patient's oral cavity. Prosthodontists design, fabricate and install a “dental prosthesis” such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and dental implants. Prosthodontists help patients with missing teeth, damaged teeth, or other oral and facial disorders to restore their ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently. They manage severe situations that require extensive dental and facial restoration due to injury, disease, or congenital disorders. Some patients find it confusing and ask, “What does a prosthodontist do?”

Prosthodontists conduct extensive assessments to identify each patient's unique needs and offer personalised treatment options. They work with dental specialists and medical professionals, including oral surgeons and orthodontists, to provide extensive care. Their treatments frequently entail sophisticated techniques and materials requiring high precision and competence. For example, a prosthodontist ensures that the implants are correctly positioned in the jawbone to support prosthetic teeth securely and painlessly while installing dental implants. Prosthodontists contribute to cosmetic dentistry by improving the appearance of a patient's smile with veneers, whitening, and other aesthetic procedures. Their efforts do not solely enhance dental health and function but increase the patient's self-esteem and quality of life.

What is the Importance of Prosthodontists?

The importance of prosthodontists involves preventative care and oral health maintenance, as they provide long-term care and check the condition of dental prostheses to avoid future problems. Their ability to combine technical skills with a knowledge of facial aesthetics makes them vital in dentistry, ensuring that patients receive the best care for functional and cosmetic dental needs. Prosthodontists value restorations because of their extensive knowledge of the mouth's moving components, such as the jaw. They treat several diseases, such as Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), snoring, sleep apnea, and oral wounds.

Prosthodontists are essential in dentistry because of their specialised knowledge in restoring and replacing teeth, which substantially impacts patients' oral health, functionality, and appearance. Their value stems from their ability to address complex dental disorders that conventional dentists sometimes fail to address, such as substantial tooth loss, severe damage, and congenital or acquired deformities in the mouth and face region. Prosthodontists restore chewing and speaking abilities with solutions such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and dental implants, which are critical for overall health and nutrition.

A prosthodontist improves the appearance of a patient's smile, which boosts self-esteem and quality of life. They use innovative techniques and materials to guarantee that dental restorations look natural and perform properly, and they provide personalised treatment programmes based on each patient's specific needs. Their work frequently requires coordination with other dental and medical specialists, ensuring a thorough approach to complex cases requiring trauma, cancer reconstruction, or congenital disabilities.

Prosthodontists are restoration specialists. Prosthodontists prioritise restorations due to their extensive knowledge of the mouth's moving components, including the jaw. They address issues associated with tooth loss. One of the most noticeable differences between prosthodontists and general dentists is how much time they spend learning to reconstruct and replace broken or missing teeth. They are the best specialists to determine whether patients need to cover a tooth with a crown or replace an entire portion of their teeth with a bridge, dentures, or dental implants. Prosthodontists are dental specialists who ensure patients' teeth function correctly and look natural. They ensure that patients understand each restoration required to restore their smile and that their bite remains aligned during the procedure.

What are the Reasons for seeing a Prosthodontist?

The reasons for seeing a prosthodontist are listed below.

Specialised Training: Prosthodontists, a recognised specialty of the General Dental Council, complete three years of advanced training in mouth restoration and tooth replacement. They create complicated treatment regimens and restore oral problems. They aid with restorative work, including implant, crown, denture, bridge restoration, and orthodontics.

Good Oral Health: Maintaining a clean mouth is essential for overall health, but oral issues lead to infections and plaque accumulation, resulting in catastrophic harm. Mouth germs have been linked to cardiovascular diseases, kidney damage, and rheumatoid arthritis. Chronic inflammation causes the immune system to overreact, resulting in upper respiratory infections and pneumonia.

Chronic Jaw Pain Treatment: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a common type of jaw pain produced by muscles and joints that frequently interferes with chewing and yawning. TMD results in toothaches, headaches, tinnitus, shoulder issues, neck discomfort, temple pain, disorientation, and back pain. Prosthodontists aid with TMD, including toothaches, migraines, ear ringing, shoulder issues, neck discomfort, temple pain, disorientation, and back pain.

Full Mouth Reconstructions: Full mouth reconstruction is a hybrid operation that combines innovative procedures to replace teeth and restore optimal function. It has several causes, including cancer, trauma, teeth grinding, decay, and birth deformities. Prosthodontists fit dentures, implants, veneers, bridges, and crowns, ensuring a natural appearance and bite. Their skill reduces agony and soreness.

Complete Smile Makeover: A smile makeover is a cosmetic dentistry operation concentrating on teeth' alignment, balance, and colour. It treats discoloured, chipped, damaged, and irregularly shaped teeth, gaps, worn enamel, and decay. It repairs damaged teeth with dental crowns. Gum contouring is a crucial aspect of cosmetic dentistry that enhances dental function.

Healthy Teeth: Improved dental hygiene and dentist availability have made it easier for older people to keep their teeth as they age. Dentures are used with crowns on many teeth when crowns save them. Prosthodontists help improve smiles by treating discolouration, yellowing, and deterioration of existing crowns and bridges. They whiten teeth and discolourations and apply veneers for a youthful appearance.

What to Expect at the Prosthodontist?

Patients who see a prosthodontist expect to receive complete and specialised dental care. The initial consultation consists of a comprehensive oral cavity examination, including X-rays, impressions, and digital scans to examine the condition of the teeth, gums, and jawbone. The prosthodontist obtains a thorough medical and dental history better to understand the patient's overall health and specific issues. A comprehensive diagnostic procedure assists the prosthodontist in creating a treatment plan specific to the patient's requirements.

The prosthodontist reviews each treatment choice's advantages, disadvantages, and anticipated results with patients during the consultation. Patients ask questions and voice their preferences, ensuring they are comfortable and educated about their care. The course of therapy includes multiple steps, such as implant placement, extractions, or the construction and fitting of dental prostheses, depending on how complex the situation is.

A prosthodontist schedules the appropriate treatments once the treatment plan has been finalised. These include preparing the mouth for implants or prostheses, performing surgical procedures, and fitting and modifying dental restorations. Prosthodontists provide extensive post-treatment care and maintenance instructions to ensure the dental work lasts and thrives.

Follow-up sessions are required to assess the healing and functionality of the restorations. The prosthodontist looks for indicators of problems and makes modifications to promote maximum comfort and performance. Patients expect a highly personalised and attentive service to improve their oral health and smile.

What is the Average Cost of a Prosthodontic Treatment?

The average cost of a prosthodontic treatment depends on the type of procedure a patient needs. The price excludes the consultation fee. An Inlay and Onlay treatment costs £215, up to the most expensive dental implant, which costs £2,500 (Zirconia implant). The average price of prosthodontic treatments differs based on the specific procedure, the case's intricacy, the materials utilised, and the dental practice's geographical location. Prosthodontic treatment requires high knowledge, precision, and customisation, reflected in the costs. Patients must meet with their prosthodontist for a precise estimate based on their treatment plan. Prosthodontic treatment costs are reduced using financing options or payment plans many dental clinics offer. Specific dental insurance plans cover a portion of such expenses.

Who is not a Suitable Candidate for Prosthodontic Treatment?

A patient with poor health and severe medical disorders, such as uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease, is not a suitable candidate for a prosthodontic treatment. Not everyone is a good candidate for prosthodontic therapy, and certain conditions influence eligibility. Individuals with poor oral hygiene or severe periodontal disease must address such issues before receiving prosthodontic treatment, as a strong foundation is critical for the effectiveness of dental restorations. Smokers are a disadvantage because smoking slows healing and increases the risk of implant failure or issues with other dental prostheses.

Patients with insufficient jawbone density or severe bone loss are eligible for some operations like dental implants unless they are prepared to undergo extra therapies such as bone grafting. Candidates with false expectations regarding the outcomes of prosthodontic treatments are not eligible, as a positive and realistic view is required for patient satisfaction and cooperation during the treatment procedure. Potential candidates require a complete evaluation by a prosthodontist, who examines their medical and dental history, oral health, and unique needs to establish the most appropriate and effective treatment alternatives.

What Dental Treatments are done by Prosthodontists?

The dental treatments done by prosthodontists are listed below.

Dental Crowns: Prosthodontists use dental crowns to cover and protect damaged or weak teeth. Crowns are custom-made caps that cover the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and aesthetics. They are utilised following root canal procedures or to replace damaged or badly decaying teeth.

Dental Bridges: Prosthodontists use dental bridges to repair one or more lost teeth. A bridge, which includes artificial teeth, is held in place by crowns anchored to neighbouring natural teeth. The procedure closes the gap while preventing the remaining teeth from shifting.

Dentures: Prosthodontists make full and partial dentures for individuals who have lost several teeth. Complete dentures replace entire teeth in the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures fill gaps between natural teeth. A denture is a removable “dental prosthesis” meant to look like natural teeth.

Inlays: Inlays restore teeth with mild to moderate decay or injury. Prosthodontists design custom-made restorations that fit perfectly into a tooth's prepared cavity, restoring its natural beauty and function without covering the entire tooth like a crown.

Onlays: Onlays are used to restore bigger portions of teeth, such as one or more cusps, much like inlays. Prosthodontists use them when the damage is too extensive for an inlay but not severe enough to warrant a full crown. Onlays are manufactured to suit the tooth and restore its structure.

Dental Implants: Dental implants, one of the most modern treatments offered by prosthodontists, replace lost tooth roots with titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone. The posts are a strong foundation for crowns, bridges, and dentures, providing a long-lasting and natural-looking solution to tooth loss.

Dental Veneers: Dental veneers are an option for patients who want to improve the appearance of their teeth. The front surface of the teeth is covered by thin, custom-made shells, which improve the appearance of the teeth by filling in gaps, fixing chips, and discolouring areas.

1. Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are prostheses that cover a weak or fractured tooth above the gum line, offering durability, protection, and support. Dental crowns are made of different materials and tailored to the original tooth's size, shape, and colour. They restore teeth damaged by root canal treatment, fillings, fractures, or decay. Crowns help to reinforce weak teeth, stabilise dental bridges, and improve the appearance of discoloured or crooked teeth. Crowns provide a long-term, cosmetically appealing solution for various dental conditions, making them an essential tool in rehabilitative dentistry.

Crowns are used to treat teeth with root canal therapy, extensive fillings, fractures, or considerable deterioration. They restore function and aesthetics by reinforcing, protecting, and supporting the remaining tooth structure. Dental crowns, placed over adjacent teeth to support the bridge, are connected to “pontics” in bridge construction. They restore chewing function, keep adjacent teeth from shifting, and make the smile more beautiful by filling gaps.

Dental crowns are used to make individual teeth more aesthetically acceptable or to repair damaged or weaker teeth. The dentist initially prepares the tooth, removing decaying or damaged tissue and reshaping it to fit the crown. Taking imprints of the prepped tooth creates a personalised crown that is the same size, shape, and colour as the natural tooth. Dental glue is used to adhere the crown on the prepared tooth after it has been created in a dental laboratory.

How much does a Dental Crown cost in Turkey?

The dental crown cost in Turkey is £140 to £300 per tooth. The price of a dental crown varies according to the treatment's intricacy, materials, and techniques. Dental crowns are stand-alone restorations that cost less than dental bridges due to lower material requirements and a simpler method. Individual costs depend on the materials used, such as porcelain, ceramic, and metal alloys, the location of the dental clinic, and additional procedures required. The cost of dental crowns in Turkey makes it an appealing destination for dental tourism. The lower price is related to decreased administrative and labour costs and a favourable currency rate for overseas patients. Many Turkish dental clinics provide packages that include accommodation and transportation, which increases their appeal to overseas customers.

The USA ranges from $800 to $3,000 per tooth. The increased cost in the United States reflects higher operating expenses, such as dental office overhead, employee pay, and malpractice insurance. The regulatory environment in the United States necessitates using more expensive materials and innovative technology, which adds to the overall cost. Dentists in the USA have some dental insurance coverage, but most patients must pay large out-of-pocket.

2. Dental Bridges

Dental Bridges are prostheses that restore missing teeth by attaching implants or natural teeth to pontics or artificial teeth. Bridges replace one or more lost teeth in a row, whereas crowns are suitable for treating damaged teeth. They replicate the original teeth's size, shape, and colour, offering stability, practicality, and aesthetic appeal. They improve chewing function, prevent tooth movement, protect against dental problems, and promote oral health. Dental bridges are famous among patients who have lost teeth, want non-surgical treatments, and seek a less expensive alternative to implants. They provide a practical and visually appealing option for restoring lost teeth.

Dental bridges are prosthetics that replace one or more missing teeth by connecting dental implants or nearby natural teeth to artificial teeth. Dental bridge installation necessitates prepping the teeth by removing a portion of their enamel to accommodate the crowns that support the bridge. Impressions of the prepared teeth are taken to create custom dental bridges with the pontic and crowns for the abutments. The bridge fills the gap caused by the missing teeth by being attached to the teeth.

Dental bridge applications are more complicated than dental crown applications because they require the preparation of several teeth and the manufacture of more parts. Different lengths of surgery are needed to put in a dental bridge. It takes extra time because it involves prepping numerous teeth and performing additional stages during the bridge-fitting procedure.

3. Dentures

Dental dentures are removable prostheses designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are custom-built to fit a person's mouth and constructed of acrylic resin and metal. Dentures have two types, full dentures and partial. Full dentures are used when teeth are lost, and partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They restore the mouth's aesthetic and functional characteristics, allowing for proper chewing and communication.

Dentures restore oral functioning and aesthetics for tooth loss sufferers by facilitating chewing, promoting clear speech, improving facial appearance, and reducing dental problems. They are required for whole or partial tooth loss, functional issues, and cosmetic considerations. The longevity of dental dentures is determined by the quality of the materials, the maintenance required, and wear and tear. Regular dental follow-ups are essential for addressing changes and ensuring adequate adjustments.

Cosmetic denture therapy entails thoroughly examining the patient's oral health, dental history, and goals. A personalised rehabilitation plan is developed, followed by thorough mouth imprints to form a mould. The dentures are made and fitted to fit the patient's existing teeth. Patients are given information for optimal care after the fitting, including cleaning techniques and food recommendations. The procedure seeks to attain cosmetic and functional superiority in dental restoration techniques.

4. Inlays

Inlays are long-lasting dental repairs made of porcelain, composite resin, or gold that replace broken or damaged teeth. They fit precisely inside the tooth hole and are shaped, coloured, and textured like actual teeth. Inlays are safe and effective for healing tooth damage and restoring the shape, function, and appearance of fractured or rotting teeth, indicating their utility in dental restoration.

Inlays repair mild to severe tooth damage or decay, depending on the tooth's strength and structural integrity. They are appropriate for rear teeth subjected to heavy biting and chewing forces, whereas veneers are preferable for front teeth or cosmetic restorations. Oral health is critical for long-term success, and issues such as gum disease or severe tooth decay must be addressed. Inlays must be put in to ensure adequate bite function while avoiding interference with opposing teeth, if the bite alignment is disturbed, more procedures or orthodontic adjustments are required.

Putting in an inlay entails prepping the tooth, capturing a picture, constructing a temporary repair, creating the inlay, connecting it to the tooth, and finishing and cleaning it. The dentist prepares the tooth for the implant by removing decay and breaking up the structure. A mould is formed using dental wax or a digital camera, and a temporary filling is applied to the tooth. The final dental inlays are created in a dental lab using the material the patient selects. Dental glue and glueing chemicals securely attach the tooth to the implant.

5. Onlays

Onlays are gold, porcelain, or composite resin prostheses that heal rotting teeth. Dental onlays seals the tooth's external surface, concealing portions beyond fillings, and does not necessitate a complete crown. They help to prevent additional tooth decay while preserving the tooth's original structure. Onlays are more discrete than crowns, requiring less removal of healthy teeth while offering a smooth, natural-looking replacement.

Onlays are indirect restorations that cover or overlay missing cusps in decayed or cracked teeth while retaining tooth structure. They are made of porcelain or gold and are formed outside the mouth. Gold onlays is a well-established tradition, but modern porcelain is more durable. The restoration is either custom-made or temporary and must be completed utilising CAD/CAM dentistry procedures.

An onlay is a dental technique that numbs the tooth and surrounding area before shaping it to accommodate the onlay and removes decaying or damaged portions. Imprints or digital scans construct a custom-fitted onlay, including a temporary repair. The onlay is sealed with a temporary filling, and the tooth is cleansed before it is cemented with dental cement. Polishing the dental onlays enhances its appearance and provides functional restoration. A methodical strategy and precise planning are required for good outcomes.

6. Dental Implants

Dental Implants are advanced orthodontic procedures that involve inserting a biocompatible titanium post into the jawbone and forming a prosthetic root for new artificial teeth. Osseointegration is a progressive step by which bone fuses with the implant, producing a permanent link. The implants replace missing teeth and promote oral health, although the cost varies according to location and procedure complexity.

Dental implants are required if one or more teeth are missing, and the patient wants a long-term and durable replacement that resembles natural teeth in function and look. Implants are suitable for people who have lost teeth due to injury, decay, or periodontal disease and want to regain their ability to chew and talk appropriately while improving their smile's appearance. Implants are advantageous for patients who struggle to cope with or are dissatisfied with traditional dentures or bridges, as they give a more stable and long-lasting choice that does not rely on adjacent teeth for support.

A dental implant replaces the root of a lost tooth with a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jawbone. The post provides a strong base for mounting a crown, bridge, or denture. The process begins with a thorough examination and planning phase in which the prosthodontist evaluates the patient's oral health, bone density, and readiness for the treatment. The titanium implant is inserted into the jawbone while the patient is under local anaesthesia. The dental implants proceed through a process known as osseointegration for the following few months, in which the titanium and bone combine to form a solid and reliable link.

An abutment is affixed to the implant when osseointegration is finished, and it functions as the connector for the ultimate restoration. The restoration is completed by placing a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture on top of the abutment. The result is a highly functional and natural-looking replacement tooth, which provides stability and longevity, making dental implants a famous choice for many patients trying to restore their smiles.

7. Dental Veneers

Dental Veneers are thin, custom-designed shells that cover the front surfaces of teeth, improving their look. Veneers are a cosmetic dentistry solution that treats a variety of dental flaws, including discolouration, stains, chips, fractures, and uneven spacing. They are less harmful than crowns and replicate the natural tooth's colour, shape, and size. Consultations are conducted, followed by enamel extraction, impressions, temporary veneers, and permanent veneers. They provide a whiter, straighter smile without requiring extensive orthodontic or restorative operations and are popular due to their long-term benefits.

Implant-supported dental veneers are a flexible cosmetic dentistry option that improves smiles and gives more confidence. They are helpful for people with obstinate discolouration, stains that do not respond to typical whitening procedures, chipped, fractured, unusually shaped teeth, minor alignment issues, or small gaps between teeth. Veneers improve teeth' size, shape, and overall appearance, resulting in a more uniform and visually appealing smile. The treatment of dental veneers is suitable for a few people due to their dental health and attractiveness. A thorough dental examination and consultation with a general or cosmetic dentist are required to establish whether veneers are the best option for a given individual.

Dental veneers are a cosmetic process in which a dentist evaluates dental health, selects the best alternative, prepares teeth, creates personalised veneers, and bonds them to the teeth. The veneers are fitted, adjusted, and cemented to the teeth. The dentist examines the patient's bite to ensure proper alignment. Schedule regular dental checkups and care to improve the look and confidence of the teeth.

How much does a Dental Veneer cost in Turkey?

The dental veneer cost in Turkey is £140 to £300 per tooth. Dental veneer prices vary in Turkey and the United States because of variances in economic considerations, healthcare costs, and market dynamics. The lower price of dental veneers in Turkey is due to a lower cost of living, cheaper operating fees for dental clinics, and competitive pricing in the medical tourism sector. Turkey has become a popular destination for dental treatments, with many clinics offering all-inclusive packages that provide veneers, accommodation, and sometimes travel expenses, which makes it an appealing alternative for international patients seeking high-quality dental care at a lower cost.

A dental veneer in the USA ranges from $800 to $2,500 per tooth. The cost of dental veneers in the United States reflects the increased costs associated with establishing a dental business, including rent, salaries, insurance, and regulatory compliance. The higher price in the United States demonstrates the use of innovative dental technologies and materials and the substantial training and competence of American dentists. Most dental insurance policies in the United States cover a portion of dental care costs, but cosmetic treatments like veneers are not covered, so patients must pay high out-of-pocket costs.

What is the Difference between Treatments done by Prosthodontists and General Dentists?

The main difference between treatments provided by prosthodontists and general dentists is the specialisation and intricacy of the operations performed. General dentists offer a comprehensive range of critical dental treatments, such as cleanings, amalgam fillings, extractions, and preventive care. They promote oral health, identify common dental problems, and conduct restorations. Patients' first point of contact is their general dentists, who handle most of their standard dental requirements. One of the most evident distinctions between prosthodontists and general dentists is the length of time prosthodontists dedicate to acquiring the art of reconstructing and replacing damaged or absent teeth. They are the best dental specialists to determine if a person must cover a tooth with a crown or replace all or some of their teeth with a bridge, dentures, or dental implants.

Prosthodontists are professionals with additional years of training in prosthodontics after graduating from dentistry school. Their comprehensive training prepares them to address complex dental and face disorders that require restoring and replacing lost or damaged teeth. Prosthodontists are experts in designing and putting dental crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants and conducting cosmetic dental procedures such as veneers. They address concerns about jaw disorders, traumas, and congenital conditions.

Prosthodontists offer a higher degree of specialisation and accuracy, especially for intricate situations needing specialised knowledge and methods, while regular dentists perform some of such reconstructive procedures. Patients with severe dental issues, considerable tooth loss, or unique aesthetic concerns are frequently referred to prosthodontists for more comprehensive and individualised treatment options. The specialised care offers the best clinical and aesthetic results, improving the condition of the patient's teeth and longevity.

What are the Advantages of Prosthodontic Treatment?

The advantages of prosthodontic treatments are listed below.

Dental Health: Prosthodontic treatment involves replacing missing teeth and repairing damaged teeth. It promotes good oral hygiene and helps to avoid gum disease and jawbone loss.

Restoration of Functionality: Prosthodontic treatment allows patients to chew, speak, and smile confidently, restoring their gums and teeth to full range of motion.

Long-Term Solution: Most prosthodontic operations are intended to last and provide a long-term solution to tooth problems.

Aesthetics: Prosthodontics enhances the smile's appearance, boosting self-esteem whether patients decide to receive dental implants or dentures.

Customised: Prosthodontists work with patients to create individualised treatment regimens that suit their concerns and goals. The personalised approach guarantees that every patient receives the best care, adapted to their dental and aesthetic needs.

What are the Risks of a Prosthodontic Treatment?

The risks of a prosthodontic treatment involve pain, sensitivity, infection, aesthetics, and bleeding. Infection is one of the main risks, particularly after surgical operations such as dental implants. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and following post-operative care instructions are critical for reducing the risk.

Pain before and after the surgery is another concern, but it is manageable with medicine and careful monitoring. Pain following a prosthodontic surgery is sometimes inevitable. There are a few situations in which patients must expect some pain. Most people endure significant pain following a surgical or tooth extraction operation. There is a chance that the prosthetic device fails or does not fit well. For example, if dental crowns or bridges are not correctly bonded, they become loose or fall off, and dental implants fuse with the jawbone, a condition known as implant failure. The difficulties require extra operations or changes, resulting in longer treatment times and higher costs.

Allergic responses to the materials used in prosthodontic devices, while uncommon, exist. Patients with known allergies need to see their prosthodontist to avoid reactions to metals, ceramics, or other materials used in restoration. The risk of damaging surrounding teeth or tissues during the preparation and fitting of prosthodontic devices is another danger in prosthodontic treatment. It leads to other dental problems that necessitate additional procedures.

Aesthetic results are sometimes disappointing. Subjective preferences or unanticipated problems throughout treatment indicate that, despite careful preparation and execution, the outcome falls short of the patient's expectations. Patients must select a highly qualified and competent prosthodontist, follow the pre and post-treatment instructions, and schedule routine dental exams to reduce the risks and guarantee the success and duration of their prosthodontic treatment. Most dental procedures, including tooth extraction or root canal repair, result in some bleeding, but sometimes patients encounter significant bleeding.

Are Dental Treatments Performed by Prosthodontists Painful?

No, dental treatments performed by prosthodontists are not painful. Prosthodontists administer contemporary anaesthetics and pain management procedures to make dental treatments less uncomfortable. Local anaesthetic is used during treatments to numb the treated area, ensuring the patient is comfortable. Sedation solutions are provided for more extensive or complex treatments, such as dental implants or jaw reconstruction, to assist patients in relaxing and being comfortable throughout the process. Prosthodontists are trained to reduce pain and prioritise patient comfort during and after procedures. They offer extensive aftercare instructions and are ready to discuss concerns or difficulties that are likely to develop following treatment.

Prosthodontists strive to deliver a happy and comfortable patient experience by providing effective communication and pain control, making the advantages of prosthodontic treatments more than worth minor discomfort. The anaesthetic wears off after the surgery, causing discomfort or minor pain. It is common and is manageable with over-the-counter analgesics, cold packs, and adhering to the prosthodontist's post-operative care guidelines. For example, patients experience soreness or swelling after dental implants or extractions, which resolves within a few days.

Dentist Dr. Dt. Erdem CETIN

He started his professional career in a private practice in Antalya in 2005 and served there until 2012. Between 2012 and 2016, he continued his work as a partner at the institution named KlinikAntalya. In 2016, he founded Myra Dental Centre Turkey and continues his professional activities there. Additionally, he has strengthened his expertise in the field with his membership in the International Congress of Oral Implantology (ICOI).

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