The Art and Science of Prosthodontics: Restoring Smiles and Confidence

Tooth loss has been a major cause of concern since it results in several life-altering consequences due to missing teeth, negatively impacting your oral form, function, and aesthetics. But prosthodontics is a popular and widely applied branch of dentistry that focuses on replacing missing teeth and supporting structures. 

The dentist in Breckenridge, CO, and their team of trained prosthodontists help rehabilitate the oral cavity through several dental prostheses. Keep reading for more information about prosthodontics.

What is prosthodontics? 

Prosthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry focused on the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of oral function, comfort, appearance, and health of patients with missing, damaged, or compromised teeth, and oral structures. These procedures are performed by specially trained and licensed dentists known as prosthodontists. 

Prosthodontists are dental specialists who undergo additional training to become experts in the restoration and replacement of teeth, as well as oral rehabilitation of oral function. They are skilled in designing, constructing, and fitting various types of dental prostheses, including crowns, bridges, dentures, dental implants, and other oral appliances. 

What is the role of prosthodontists?

Prosthodontics offers a wide range of dental treatments. You may be referred to a prosthodontist if you have:

  • Missing teeth
  • Severely diseased or damaged teeth 
  • Mouth or facial pain
  • TMJ disorders
  • Cosmetic concerns 
  • Obstructive sleep apnea 
  • Bruxism
  • Sports Injury 

What are some examples of prosthodontic treatments?

Some of the popular and common examples of prosthodontic treatments include:

  • Dental crowns: These are customized shells that help restore an extensively damaged or diseased tooth. 
  • Dental bridge: A connection of artificial teeth, seeking support from adjacent natural teeth is known as a dental bridge. 
  • Dentures: Dentures are removable appliances that replace a few or all the missing teeth. 
  • Inlays and Onlays: These are restorations that help restore a damaged tooth that cannot be repaired with a regular filling or a crown. 
  • Dental lants implants: These are artificial screw-like posts that mimic the lost tooth roots to anchor permanent restorations like dental crowns. 

Benefits of prosthodontics

Here are some key benefits of prosthodontics:

  • Restores oral function
  • Improves aesthetics
  • Preserves oral health
  • Offers enhanced comfort
  • Are durable
  • Provides support to adjacent teeth
  • Improves speech and chewing 
  • Increases self-esteem and confidence 

Closure 

Prosthodontics treatment aims to restore the aesthetics, function, and harmony of the oral and facial structures, improving your ability to bite, chew, speak, and smile comfortably. Whether addressing single-tooth restorations or full-mouth rehabilitations, prosthodontics plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of your life and overall well-being for your complex oral needs.