FAQs

What is prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. Graduate programs in prosthodontics include classroom lectures and seminars, laboratory and clinical training in esthetics/cosmetics, crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays, complete and removable partial dentures, dental implants, TMD-jaw joint problems, traumatic injuries to the mouth’s structures, congenital or birth anomalies to teeth, snoring, sleep disorders, and oral cancer reconstruction and continuing care. Prosthodontists are masters of complete oral rehabilitation. A prosthodontist is dedicated to the highest standards of care in the restoration and replacement of teeth.

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Who is a prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a dentist who specializes in the esthetic restoration and replacement of teeth. Prosthodontists receive two or three years of additional training after dental school, and restore optimum appearance and function to your smile. Additional training for prosthodontists is earned through a hospital- or university-based program accredited by the American Dental Association. The training includes reviews of the literature, lectures, treatment of patients and laboratory experience in fabricating restorations. A prosthodontist is the skilled architect who can restore optimum function and appearance to your smile.

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What is a dental specialty?

A dental specialty is an area of dentistry that has been formally recognized by the American Dental Association as meeting the requirements for recognition of dental specialists. The American Dental Association recognizes nine dental specialties: Public Health Dentistry, Endodontics, Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (Oral Surgeon), Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics and Prosthodontics.

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What is a dental specialist?

A dental specialist is a dentist who has received additional post-graduate training after dental school. The American Dental Association recognizes nine dental specialties: Public Health Dentistry, Endodontics, Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (Oral Surgeon), Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics and Prosthodontics.

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Who is a dental technician?

A dental laboratory technician is a vital component of your oral health care team. In most instances the laboratory technician is the unseen player in the successful restoration of your mouth. All restorative dentistry hinges on the skill and knowledge of this key team member. If you are having a restoration on an implant or a tooth; if you are receiving crowns (caps), bridges, inlays, onlays, partial or complete dentures (plates), night guards or orthodontics appliances, you have been helped by this valuable individual who is dedicated to restoring the beauty and function of your mouth. Combining the artistic skills to fulfill your esthetic needs, the laboratory technician needs knowledge of the myriad number of dental materials used in the manufacture of your dental restorations. This requires special education and training. The utilization of quality materials, dictated by prescription from your dentist, is paramount in insuring a long lasting, esthetic and functional restoration. As with all professions that are responsible for the health of the public, it requires a high level of knowledge, skill and integrity.

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Why visit a prosthodontist?

You may want to visit a prosthodontist if you are missing one or more teeth; you are interested in dental implants; you wear dentures or removable partial dentures; or you want to improve the esthetics of your smile.

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What do dental credentials mean?

Upon graduation from dental school a dentist is awarded either a D.D.S. or a D.M.D. degree. There is no difference between the two degrees – both dentists have received the same education and completed the same curriculum requirements set by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation. The difference is merely semantics – some institutions award a D.M.D. degree, while others award a D.D.S. degree. Generally, three or more years of undergraduate college education plus four years of dental school is required to graduate and become a general dentist. State licensing boards accept either degree as equivalent, and both degrees allow licensed individuals to practice the same scope of general dentistry.

Post-graduate training is required to become a dental specialist consisting of 2-3 additional years of training after dental school. Prosthodontists must at least complete an advanced training program leading to a certificate in prosthodontics. The certificate program satisfies the formal training requirements for eligibility for the American Board of Prosthodontics examination. The program is fully accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation. Prosthodontists may also elect a course of study leading to a Master of Science degree along with the advanced training program. The Master of Science degree requires the completion of an original research project, preparation and defense of a thesis and a comprehensive examination covering the specialty of prosthodontics. Courses of study leading to a Ph.D. are available through basic science departments or through interdisciplinary affiliations.

Board certification is awarded through the American Board of Prosthodontics and requires successful completion of the Part I written examination and Part 2, 3 and 4 oral examinations. The written and one oral examination may be taken during the 3rd year of specialty training and the remaining two oral examinations taken following completion of specialty training. Board eligibility starts when an application is approved by the ABP and lasts for six years. Diplomates of the ABP are ethically required to have a practice limited to prosthodontics. Fellows of the American College of Prosthodontists (F.A.C.P.) are required to have a dental degree, have completed three years of prosthodontic speciality training, and be board certified by the ABP.

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What's unique about prosthodontists' education?

Prosthodontists are dental specialists in the restoration and replacement of teeth who have completed dental school plus three additional years of advanced training and education in an ADA-accredited prosthodontic graduate program.

Extensive training and experience provide prosthodontists with a special understanding of the dynamics of a smile, the preservation of a healthy mouth and the creation of tooth replacements. Serving as the architect of a dental treatment plan, a prosthodontist collaborates with general dentists, specialists and other health professionals to develop solutions to dental and oral health concerns.

Prosthodontists provide an extremely high level of care to patients with missing teeth, or having significant damage to their existing teeth. Prosthodontists work with congenital defects as well as problems arising from trauma and neglect.

Prosthodontists are highly trained in state-of-the-art techniques and procedures for treating many diverse and complex dental conditions and restoring optimum function and esthetics. These include: crowns, bridges, complete and removable partial dentures, dental implants, TMD-jaw joint problems, traumatic injuries to the mouth’s structure and/or teeth, snoring or sleep disorders and oral cancer reconstruction and continuing care.

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What is board certification?

Board certification is awarded through the American Board of Prosthodontics and requires successful completion of the Part I written examination and Part 2, 3 and 4 oral examinations. The written and one oral examination may be taken during the 3rd year of specialty training and the remaining two oral examinations taken following completion of specialty training. Board eligibility starts when an application is approved by the ABP and lasts for six years. Diplomates of the ABP are ethically required to have a practice limited to prosthodontics. Fellows of the American College of Prosthodontists denoted by F.A.C.P. in the credentials of a fellow are required to have a dental degree, have completed three years of prosthodontic speciality training, and be board certified by the ABP.

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What is evidence-based dentistry?

Evidence-based dentistry is an approach to oral healthcare that requires the careful integration of systematic evaluations of clinically relevant scientific evidence, relating to the person's oral and medical condition and history, with the dentist's clinical expertise and the person’s treatment needs and preferences.

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What is the difference about the prothodontist labratory?Why is a prothodontist better at selecting labs?Why are prothodontists lab fees more expensive?

Prosthodontists have much more experience working with dental labs since the work we do always involves a lab. Therefore, we have a lot of experiences with laboratories and only demand the finest quality and the most precise work available. Lab fees may be higher due to the higher quality of materials, the attention to detail and the experience of the lab in providing the best for our patients.

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Dear Sir/ Mam,I am a Prosthodontist from India, teaching undergraduates at a Dental college in Mumbai.Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental college.I would like to know about Board Certification by ABP for forgien Dentist.Kindly guide for the same.thank you.

You can find a guide to board certification on the American Board of Prosthodontists website. On the ACP website, we sell copies of the Board Preparation Course Manual & CD-ROM study guide, which may be helpful. Good luck!

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I want dentures. Where do I start?

The best starting point to see if dentures are an option for you is to see your dentist or a prosthodontist, who is a specialist with an additional three years of training after dental school who focuses on the restoration and replacement of teeth, including dentures for even the most complex cases. A prosthodontist also will be able to help determine if another treatment option might be more suited to your particular situation.

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What types of dentures are there?

Dentures may replace all the teeth or only some of the teeth. The dentures that replace all the teeth are known as complete dentures and they rest on the gums that cover the jawbones. The stability and retention of these dentures can be improved by attaching them to dental implants. Dentures that replace some but not all of the teeth are known as partial dentures. They attach to the teeth that are still present and also cover and rest on the gums and bone where the teeth are missing.

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What is the average cost of dentures?

Denture fees vary widely based on location. The best way to determine fees for service is to visit with your dentist or prosthodontist and discuss the care you may need. You may also contact your state or local dental society to find out if the organization has any resources for the public related to the cost of dental services. You may want to seek the care of a prosthodontist, a dentist with three years of training beyond dental school who specializes in the care and maintenance of dentures.

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How can I whiten my dentures?

It is not possible to whiten dentures like natural teeth because dentures are made of plastic. To minimize staining, properly clean your dentures daily to remove food and plaque bacteria. Brushing with a denture brush or soft toothbrush will prevent dentures from becoming permanently stained and keep your mouth healthy. Moisten the brush and apply a non-abrasive denture paste (regular toothpaste is too abrasive). Brush every surface, inside and out, scrubbing gently. A variety of over-the-counter denture cleanser products may be safely used (by following the manufacturer’s instructions) to remove most stains. However, more stubborn stains may require removal by your dentist or prosthodontist, a specialist in denture care and maintenance.

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Can you brush your dentures with toothpaste?

No, toothpastes are designed to be used on teeth, and they often contain materials and chemicals that help whiten and strengthen teeth, but may harm dentures, which are made of a very durable plastic. Even though the plastic is strong, it is not as strong as the enamel of teeth and may be scratched by using toothpaste to clean your dentures. You should use a dish washing liquid and a special denture brush to clean your dentures by hand every day. After rinsing them thoroughly, soak your dentures in water-based cleaning solution overnight. Do not use bleach on your dentures unless your dentist or prosthodontist gives you special instructions on using bleach.

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How do you repair broken dentures?

The best solution is to return to the dentist or prosthodontist who made your dentures and have the cracked denture repaired professionally. It may seem easy to fix, but it is important that the repair is done correctly to prevent problems with chewing and to avoid any sore spots. The dentist also needs to check the denture and adjust it after it is repaired. The denture may be too old and may no longer fit closely to your gums, and you may need a new denture.

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How do you know when it’s time to reline dentures?

If the dentures no longer fit as well as they once did you may need to have a procedure done to refit the base of the denture, called a "reline" procedure. However, this procedure will enable your denture to fit better, and tighter, than it has previously. This procedure can be done by your dentist or prosthodontist, a specialist in denture care and maintenance.

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Can you sleep in dentures?

You should remove your dentures at night and give your gums and bone a chance to relax from the pressure of the denture during the day. Dentures should be cleaned at night and stored in water during the night. Dentures can be made to look like your teeth or, if you want changes in your teeth, the dentures can be made to improve your appearance. You should work with your dentist or prosthodontist and tell him/her how you would like to look. You may want to seek the care of a prosthodontist, a dental specialist with three years of additional training in the restoration and replacement of teeth, including dentures.

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Can I eat normally with dentures?

Most patients need to learn how use dentures properly and as a result, it takes a little time to get used to them. After a while, you should be able to eat fairly normally, but it may take more time to get comfortable with harder foods or sticky foods. Using a small amount of denture adhesive (no more than three or four pea-sized dabs on each denture) may help stablize the dentures and help hold them in place while you learn how to get comfortable with them and may make the learning process easier.

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Can you have teeth pulled out and dentures put in on the same day or in the same week?

Yes, it is possible to have your teeth removed and dentures put in the same day. The dentures are called immediate dentures and you should talk to your dentist or prosthodontist to see if that treatment is the best for your mouth. A prosthodontist is a dentist with three years of training beyond dental school who specializes in the care and maintenance of dentures.

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My #15 molar is beyond repair; I want to get an implant but my income is only $965.monthly. Does a partial denture prevent shifting and additional tooth loss? The dentist said I have healthy gums and the tooth below also touches another upper tooth.

A partial denture will prevent shifting of teeth but is rarely used to replace just one back tooth. If you are missing more upper teeth, then a partial may be a good investment. Many times tooth #15 is not replaced since you will still be able to eat and chew. Also, the lower tooth touches another tooth so it is unlikely to move.

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Why don't more dentist tell patients about jaw bone loss and facial collapse before exacting teeth and replacing with dentures. Shouldn't patients be aware that this will happen and there will come a day when they can't even wear dentures any more.

There are a lot of consequences to loosing teeth and wearing dentures. Many times there has already been a lot of bone loss due to periodontal (gum) disease and there may not be options to save the teeth. Dental implants can help prevent further bone loss in addition to supporting dentures. Ask a Prosthodontist what is the best option for you.

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What are dental implants?

Dental implants are metal cylinders made of titanium surgically placed in the jawbone where teeth are missing. They replace the roots of missing teeth and support single crowns, large bridges and dentures. State-of-the-art technology makes it possible for these replacement teeth to look, feel and function like natural teeth.

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Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

If you are missing one or more teeth, a restoration supported by a dental implant and/or implants is an option you must consider. In many instances it provides the best alternative for care.

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What are the pros and cons of dental implants?

Several benefits exist to receiving dental implants. They are fixed solidly in the bone and allow teeth to be replaced in a manner that is closest to natural teeth. They have a long history of good success. However, dental implants require surgical procedures that usually include a small amount of discomfort and the time it takes for the implant to heal in the bone which can be a few months. Because a dental implant requires both a surgery and then making a replacement tooth that attaches to the implant, it is usually more expensive than a bridge when replacing a missing tooth.

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What is the success of dental implants?

It varies from individual to individual and with health and habits. For a healthy individual with good oral hygiene and good health, dental implants are predictably successful and survival rates above 90-95 percent are reported. You may consider seeking the care of a prosthodontist, who is a dental specialist with three years of additional education after dental school, and who is trained to serve patients with a combination of needs including dental implants

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Do dental implants last?

Unlike natural teeth dental implants are not susceptible to dental disease such as decay; however, the health of the gums is vital to maintaining last implant success. Conscientious home care by the patient and regular professional cleanings and check-ups are essential elements for dental implant sustainability. Each patient is different, and success relies upon diagnosis and planning, medical history and a variety of other factors.

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What is all on four?

All on 4 is a process by which all of the teeth are replaced in one jaw by using 4 implants. This process can be less expensive than the previous process that used 5 or 6 implants.

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Can dentures be made into implants?

Dentures cannot be “made into implants.” Implants are metal screws placed into the jawbone to help anchor and support artificial teeth (dentures). It may be possible to have implants placed beneath existing dentures to aid in the stabilization and support for those dentures. This could only be done if the current dentures were otherwise in excellent condition and relatively recently made. You should consult the dentist or prosthodontist who made the original dentures.

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what is the cost for implantss

The cost will vary by patient. A prosthodontist will make an assessment based on your unique needs. To find a prosthodontist near you, click here.

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safe removal of 4 dental implants that are only 3 years old. bone infected

It is possible for implants to have an infection that requires their removal.  Implants can be safely removed and many times a bone graft is placed where the implant used to be.  Make sure the implant dentist you are seeing is a dental specialist such as a Prosthodontist, Periodontist or an Oral Surgeon for the best treatment available.  All of these are recognized specialties of the American Dental Association and the dentists have 3-5 years of advanced training beyond the four years of dental school.

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Who is most at risk for oral cancer?

People who use tobacco are six times more likely to develop oral cancer. Eight of 10 oral cancer patients are smokers. Heavy alcohol drinkers are also more at risk. 80 percent of people diagnosed with oral cancer consumer more than 21 drinks weekly. Finally people with a history of oral human papilloma virus infections are at greater risk to develop oral cancer even if they don’t smoke or drink.

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What are the warning signs of oral cancer?

• Red or white patches in or behind the mouth
• Mouth sores or ulcers that bleed easily and do not heal
• Unexplained lump in the neck, throat or floor of the mouth
• Difficulty or discomfort swallowing
• Pain and tenderness in teeth or gums
• Change in the fit of dentures or partial dentures
• Visible change in mouth tissue
• Unpleasant sensations (pain, discomfort, numbness)
• Diminished ability to perform normal functions such as opening jaw, chewing or swallowing
• Unexplained swelling or fullness in neck

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What is cancer?

As the building block or our body, cells maintain our tissues and organs. When cell production and regulation lapse, adnormal growths or malignant tumors destroy healthy tissues and spread or metastasize the diseased cells to other parts of the body.

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Where does oral cancer occur?

About two-thirds of cancer of the mouth or oral cavity occurs in the floor of mouth and tongue, but can occur in the upper or lower jaw, lips, gums and cheek lining. Just behind the mouth is an area known as the orophyarnx. Oropharygeal cancer (one-third of cases) occurs in the back of the tongue, tonsils and throat tissue.

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How can you prevent oral cancer?

The American Cancer Society recommends a comprehensive oral evaluation and soft tissue exam annually, yet only one in five patients reports having an oral cancer exam in the last year. Your prosthodontist is trained to perform a comprehensive evaluation of your mouth including the associated structures in the head and neck area. An oral cancer screening is painless; treatment for advanced oral cancer is not.

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What is board certification?

Board certification establishes that the individual has successfully completed a four-part examination and is subjected to re-certification every eight years to insure that he/she is current in practices that affect the specialty.

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How can I determine if my prosthodontist is board certified?

Search the Locate a Board Certified Prosthodontist directory. Exams are issued twice a year, so check back if your dentist is not currently listed.

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My dentist is listed as a prosthodontist. Does that mean he or she is board certified?

Some states allow the listing but it does not necessarily mean that an individual is board certified. Any graduate of an accredited dental school is permitted to practice prosthodontics. Some individuals choose to receive additional post-graduate training and complete a three-year program in prosthodontic training. Many of these individuals choose to become board certified but some do not. Board certification establishes that the individual has successfully completed a four-part examination and is subjected to re-certification every eight years to insure that he/she is current in practices that affect the specialty.

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What is a crown?

When a tooth exhibits moderate to severe destruction such as a large filling with recurrent decay or extensive wear, a crown, also known as a cap, gives you the strength, beauty, translucency and feel of a natural tooth. Made from a variety of materials, your prosthodontist can help determine the correct crown for your mouth.

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What can be done to brighten my smile?

Tooth whitening lightens discolored enamel and dentin. Studies have shown that proper use of dentist-monitored, whitening systems can enhance your smile. Almost anyone can benefit. After a thorough examination and diagnosis your prosthodontist can determine if you are a good candidate for home whitening.

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What are veneers?

Veneers may be an option is you are not happy with the alignment, color or shape of your teeth. Following a slight preparation of the enamel, a prosthodontist bonds a thin layer of porcelain permanently to the front of your teeth. Veneers may be used to correct minor flaws of individual teeth, but often are used on multiple teeth to create a uniform smile.

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What is an option for replacing a defective filling?

Unsightly fillings can be replaced by all-ceramic inlays, a tooth-colored material bonded to the tooth. Instead of using the more traditional cement, this bonding process may actually improve the strength and beauty of the tooth.

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What are some options for replacing missing teeth?

From implants to permanent bridges, you have several options to replace missing teeth and blend them with your natural teeth. Using advanced materials and tooth-color matching techniques, your prosthodontist can recommend the appropriate method for optimal function and esthetics.

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When would you need the care of a prosthodontist?

You need the care of a prosthodontist if:

• You are missing one or more teeth.
• You are interested in dental implants.
• You wear dentures or removable partial dentures.
• You want to improve the esthetics of your smile.

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What options do prosthodontists offer to restore your teeth?

Prosthodontists offer several options such as bridges, complete and removable partial dentures, dental implants and lost tooth replacement.

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How does a prosthodontist fix broken, discolored or misshapen teeth?

There are several options to replace teeth such as crowns/caps, teeth whitening and veneers.

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How is a prosthodontist different from other dentists and dental specialists?

Prosthodontists expertly restore and replace teeth. They have trained three additional years in an American Dental Association accredited graduate program after completing dental school. Prosthodontists are also considered the quarterback of the dental treatment plan. They regularly lead teams of general dentists, specialists and other health professionals to develop solutions for your dental needs.

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What other ailments are prosthodontists trained to treat?

Prosthodontists also understand patients’ unique needs such as:

• Cleft palates
• Maxillofacial prosthetic procedures such as oral cancer reconstruction and continuing care
• TMD, TMJ or other jaw joint problems
• Traumatic injuries
• Snoring and sleep disorders

Rigorous training and experience provide prosthodontists with a special understanding of the dynamics of a smile and the preservation of a healthy mouth.

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sleep apnea, snoring, osteoporosis, bleeding of gums and file breath are my symptoms. Will being on medicare insurance help me pay for this. i can not afford it, but i need help. any suggestions would help

There are several issues that need addressing. Some are dental in nature while some are medical issues. You need to see your physician for a physical and then a dentist regarding your dental problems. You may seek the opinion from a Prosthodontist, a dentist who has completed 3 years of training beyond dental school. Prosthodontists treat many of the dental conditions you have mentioned. Medicare does not pay for dental procedures. If finances are limited, you may seek care at a dental school in your area.

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