What is a Prosthodontist?

The American Dental Association lists prosthodontics among the nine recognized dental specialties. A Gainesville dentist must go through classroom lectures, seminars, laboratories and attend clinical training for this specialty. This program can last anywhere from two to three years on top of their core dental program.

As part of their education, this professional is required to go through specialty training for several conditions. They include:

  • Birth Anomalies
  • Bridges
  • Congenital Defects
  • Esthetics of Dentistry
  • Cosmetic Dentistry
  • Crowns
  • Dentures (Complete, partial and removable)
  • Inlays
  • Oral Cancer
  • Reconstruction
  • Sleep Disorders
  • Snoring
  • TMD Jaw Joint Problems
  • Traumatic Injury
  • Veneers

These individuals are specialists of the mouth. Their focus is on treating and providing complete oral rehabilitation for the patient. When you have a prosthodontist as your Gainesville dentist, you’ll have peace of mind they understand the restoration and replacement process. They’ll also practice at the highest industry standards.

Isn’t a Prosthodontist Just A Regular Dentist?

A lot of what a prosthodontist appears to do seems like regular dentistry. But while there is some crossover, the prosthodontist specializes in the replacement and restoration of teeth. They also go through two to three years of advanced training after dental school. This allows them to restore the natural look of your smile.

In order to specialize in this, a Gainesville dentist must attend a university or hospital program. This residency program must be approved by the American Dental Association. As part of the training, there are literature, lectures and treatment of actual patients required. This individual can then restore the function and health of your mouth.

This is a Highly Specialized Field

In the United States, there are approximately 170,000 general dentists. Considering there are over 321,000,000 people, there is a need for more dentists. Prosthodontists are even less common. Only 3,200 are currently licensed to provide their services.

Who Should Consider Visiting a Prosthodontist?

For your routine care, a Gainesville dentist can handle the cleaning and minor treatment of your teeth. A prosthodontist, in turn, is for those who are missing one or more teeth. These professionals will help with dental implants. They can also help you with dentures or if you want to improve the aesthetics of your smile.

How Can a Prosthodontist Restore My Teeth?

To help repair your teeth, the prosthodontist will use one of several options. They include:

  • Bridges
  • Dental Implants
  • Dentures (Complete and Removable Partial Dentures)
  • Lost Tooth Replacement

Why Can’t I Just Go to My Dentist?

Dentists focus on the basics of dental care. They are preventative and handle minor oral health concerns. A prosthodontist restores and replaces teeth. They go through specialized training for their position. They work closely with general dentists and other specialists in order to help restore the health of your mouth.

If you suffer from an advanced condition like cleft palate, oral cancer, TMD or other traumatic injuries, contact a Gainesville dentist who specializes in Prosthodontics. Their rigorous training will help to restore your smile and the health of your mouth.

Dr. Ada Parra and Dr. Justin Craighead are proud to serve as the only specialist team offering the expertise of both a prosthodontist and periodontist in Gainesville, FL.

    [recaptcha]

    (352) 707-2828