prosthodontist

A prosthodontist is a dentist who specializes in the restoration and replacement of teeth and surrounding oral structures. The field covers a wide range of procedures designed to restore function, comfort, esthetics, and speech. Common treatments include fixed prosthodontics such as crowns and bridges, removable prosthodontics such as partial and complete dentures, and implant prosthodontics involving implant-supported restorations. Prosthodontists also perform full mouth rehabilitation and cosmetic-prosthetic procedures, and they may provide maxillofacial prosthetics for patients with congenital or acquired defects.

Training and certification

Prosthodontists complete dental school and then undertake a formal specialty education program in prosthodontics, typically lasting two to three years. In many countries, completion of a residency leads to board eligibility, and some regions offer board certification through a national board. Ongoing continuing education maintains licensure and expertise.

Roles and practice

In clinical practice, prosthodontists focus on diagnosis, treatment planning, and rehabilitation of complex dental problems. They coordinate with other specialists, such as periodontists, orthodontists, endodontists, and oral surgeons, as well as dental laboratory technicians, to design and fabricate prostheses. They also address occlusion and temporomandibular joint concepts to ensure long-term function.

Settings

Prosthodontists may work in private practices, academic or hospital settings, and specialty clinics. They often lead multidisciplinary teams for restoring dentitions and managing extensive rehabilitations, including patients needing implant therapy or maxillofacial prosthetics.