The short answer is yes! A prosthodontist is a dentist specializing in the replacement of missing teeth. Patients may benefit from these procedures because they will have a new set of teeth that function like natural ones. Without a complete set of teeth, people may have difficulty eating and communicating. Furthermore, people with missing teeth may suffer from low self-esteem and lack of confidence.

While you may be wondering if prosthodontics is the same as dentures, this article will explain how these two procedures differ. Dentures have become one of the most common tooth replacement options. Dentures consist of an acrylic base prosthesis placed over the gums. Dentures come in full or partial forms. Dentures have a slight adjustment period. However, most patients can speak and generally chew after a few weeks of wearing them.

Dentists are more likely to provide general dental care than prosthodontists. However, the latter type of dental practitioner may perform oral surgery. Periodontists focus on diseases of the bones and structures surrounding teeth, such as gingivitis, and provide dental implants. They can treat dental problems, including TMD-jaw joint disorders, traumatic injuries to the mouth’s structure, sleep disorders, and even oral cancer.

In addition to regular dentures, dental implants can replace missing teeth. These are often used in patients with severely damaged jaws or who cannot undergo dental implant surgery. People with weak jaw bone structure often recommend hybrid dentures, which combine the best of both worlds. These implants provide a stable base for the prosthesis, ensuring the prosthesis is anchored in the jaw.

While most prosthodontic treatments are similar, the latter involves a more complicated procedure than traditional dental procedures. A dental surgeon will first x-ray the jaw to assess its stability and strength. Next, he will implant four or more screws into the jaw. After a few months, the implants will integrate with the bone and provide a solid foundation for the denture. During this time, patients may wear temporary dentures to provide a chewing surface.

In addition to a complete set of dental implants, patients may also opt for porcelain veneers. These veneers cover the front surfaces of the teeth, thereby camouflaging any dental problems. All-on-4, on the other hand, involves the placement of four dental implants, which is considered the ideal solution for missing teeth. All-on-4 is a prosthetic solution that combines the stability of dental implants with the affordability of dentures.

The difference between a general dentist and a prosthodontist is the level of expertise in making dental prostheses. General dentists are not trained in the craft of dental prosthetics, so they are not specialists in this field. On the other hand, a prosthodontist has extensive training in restorative dentistry. This specialty requires three years of residency and specialty certification.