When choosing a dentist, doesn’t it make sense to go to someone whose qualifications have been tested and verified beyond that of the average general dentist? After all, you want the BEST care available, and someone who can handle advanced problems, should you ever encounter any.
Prosthodontics is the dental specialty that deals with the restoration and replacement of damaged or missing teeth. This type of specialist is called a prosthodontist.
To become a prosthodontist, after finishing dental school, they must complete 3 additional years of advanced education, focused on all aspects of prosthodontic treatment. This training is full-time, in a program accredited by the American Dental Association. This specialty training provides extensive experience in the fabrication of crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays/onlays, complete and removable dentures, and dental implants. Prosthodontists also are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of traumatic injuries to oral structures, TMJ, congenital and birth defects, oral cancer reconstruction and in the management of bruxism and sleep apnea disorders.
Like any very technical field there is more to know than anyone could imagine. It may not be obvious but the human mouth is a very complex system. The simple process of speech, chewing and swallowing takes a well-orchestrated effort. This process is taken for granted until there is a disruption in the system. Dental work is a disruption in the system.
A prosthodontist is the only dentist formally educated in the complete system. A prosthodontist is well versed in replacing missing teeth by using crowns, bridges, implants, extractions, partial and full dentures.
An additional layer of verification of their knowledge and skills is the Board Certification process. (Not all Prosthodontists get Board-Certified. In fact, only about 1 in 3 is, and 55% of them are either in the military or in education).
Board Certification requires candidates to demonstrate the highest integration of both clinical and didactic knowledge through a written exam. Additionally, a series of oral exams is given, and multiple treatment types presented before a panel of Board Certified Prosthodontists. It’s a rigorous process and not required in order to practice as a specialist, but another layer of commitment to the craft.
When considering complex dental work, it is wise to educate yourself before choosing who to trust with your treatment. The national organization website, www.gotoapro.org, is an excellent resource to further educate the consumer about the specialty of prosthodontics.
For a complimentary consultation (including all necessary x-rays) CONTACT US today or call us at 214-956-9100 to learn more about what prosthetic treatments are available and recommended for you. It doesn’t cost anything but your time to learn about your options!
