Prosthodontics- What It Is And Some Popular Procedures

Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry that primarily replaces or repairs damaged, broken or missing teeth.

Evidently, prosthodontists are no regular dentists. Perhaps, specialized dental surgeons that only deal in dental implants are regarded as prosthodontists.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants can refer to various products implanted in the mouth, including braces and aligners.

However, today, the term “dental implants” is rarely used for these procedures. As the experts at a dental implants Framingham clinic opine, prosthodontics and dental implants are mostly referred to as replacing missing teeth.

Nonetheless, in a broader sense, most prosthodontists still practice other procedures too.

Popular Prosthodontic Procedures

Here’s a list of prosthodontic procedures for your understanding.

Bridges

The traditional way to replace a missing tooth is by creating a bridge between two adjacent teeth.

It is noteworthy that bridging requires at least one tooth on either side of the gap created by the missing tooth to be prepared for crowning. (we will discuss crowning below.)

The bridge is attached to the crown and cemented. Thus, creating a false tooth appearance with no roots.

Crowns/Caps

Crowning or capping usually refers to covering the entire visible portion of the teeth above the gumline.

The procedure is typically sought for repairing a chipped tooth. However, it can also help with bridging, as already mentioned.

Dental crowns or caps are usually made of porcelain. However, other materials are also making it to the mainstream lately, including metal and ceramic.

Dental Implants

Another popular procedure followed in prosthodontics is dental implants. As mentioned already, it refers to replacing a missing tooth or an entire arch line of teeth.

The procedure typically involves clearing the roots, screwing a metal (usually titanium) piece into the jaw, and crowing it.

It is noteworthy that dental implants are usually placed into the jawbone. This means they are permanent structures built into the bone.

Dentures

It is natural to lose teeth as you age. But, as long as there are a few of them left in your jaws, you can still work with implants or bridges.

However, when there are no teeth in your jaws, it is better to go for dentures.

Dentures are artificial teeth (the complete dental arrangement), including grinders, incisors, and canines.

Veneers

Lastly, veneers are another form of prosthodontic treatment used for modifying your smile cosmetically.

Veneers are usually made out of porcelain and etched into the teeth. They are typically used for modifying the shape and/or color of the teeth.

It is noteworthy that veneer mounting needs extensive preparation of the tooth surface to avoid over bulking. Consider this Dentist in San Diego if you are looking for a good recommendation!