A dentist is someone who is trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat problems with teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth. A prosthodontist is a dentist who specializes in the restoration and replacement of teeth.
What is the training and education required to become a prosthodontist?
Prosthodontists are dental specialists who restore and replace teeth. They use crowns, bridges, implants, dentures and other appliances to restore both the function and appearance of patients’ teeth. Prosthodontists work closely with other dental specialists and team members to ensure that all aspects of the patient’s treatment are coordinated.
The training and education required to become a prosthodontist generally takes about four years after earning a bachelor’s degree. Students interested in this field typically pursue a pre-dental or dental studies program at the undergraduate level. After completing a dental program and earning a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, prosthodontist candidates must complete a three-year residency program in prosthodontics.
After completing the necessary training and education, prosthodontists must obtain a license in order to practice. Licensing requirements vary by state, but generally require the completion of an examination. Some states also require prosthodontists to complete a certain amount of continuing education credits on an annual basis in order to maintain their license.
Prosthodontists typically work in private practices, although some may also work in group practices, clinics or hospitals. They typically work regular business hours, although some may also work evenings or weekends to accommodate their patients’ schedules.
Prosthodontists typically need to be good communicators in order to effectively communicate with their patients and other dental professionals. They must also be detail-oriented and have good hand-eye coordination in order to complete delicate dental procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a general dentist and prosthodontist?
General dentists generally receive more general training, while prosthodontists are specialists in tooth replacement and restoration.
What is a prosthodontist and what do they do?
A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who specializes in dental implant placement and restoration, applying dental crowns, crafting dental bridges, and creating other dental prostheses like partial & full dentures for full mouth rehabilitation.
How long does it take to become a prosthodontist?
The average time to become a prosthodontist is three years. However, the program required may vary depending on the school or organization that you attend.
Why choose a prosthodontist for tooth replacement?
There are many reasons to choose a prosthodontist for tooth replacement, but chief among them is the fact that prosthodontists have years of experience and expertise in restoring teeth using modern dental techniques and materials. Prosthodontists also have an exceptional understanding of how teeth function and their surrounding tissues, which enables them to create permanently effective, comfortable solutions for replacing lost teeth. In addition, prosthodontists are experts in restoring smiles with dental implants, which can provide a more durable solution than traditional tooth restoration methods. If you are considering oral surgery or tooth replacement, don't hesitate to consult with a prominent prosthodontist like Dr. Stewart Daniels at Manhattan Dental Care to see what options may be best for you. We offer a variety of topical and invisalign treatments that can help improve your smile - contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Should I see a general dentist or a prosthodontist?
The answer to this question depends on the specific problem you’re facing. If you only need your teeth cleaned, a general dentist will suffice. However, if you’ve lost a tooth due to decay or injury, you should see a prosthodontist. A prosthodontist is your best option for any oral problem that warrants restoration.
