Prosthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the restoration and replacement of lost or damaged teeth. This field of dentistry requires an additional three years of training after graduating from dental school. Common prosthodontic treatments include dentures, dental implants, crowns, and bridges. A crown is a type of restoration used to cover the entire visible surface of a tooth above the gum line.
It is usually made of metal, porcelain fused with metal, ceramic or zirconium. Crowns are often used after an endodontic procedure, but they can also be used to restore damage caused by trauma or tooth decay. The dentist will take an impression of the tooth and send it to a professional laboratory to create a personalized crown. With the advancement of technology, some dental offices are now able to offer same-day crowns made directly in the office.
Prosthodontists are sometimes referred to as “smile architects” because they have a unique understanding of all the elements that make up a beautiful, functional, and natural looking smile. When it comes to planning and carrying out a large-scale smile makeover, a team of dental professionals is often needed; often, that team is led by a prosthodontist. Prosthodontics includes all dental procedures that involve repairing or replacing teeth with prostheses. This includes things like dental crowns and bridges, dentures, and even dental implants.
Dental veneers and other bonded restorations fall under the category of cosmetic dentistry and are used to create bright white smiles with beautifully shaped teeth. Crowns are a restoration used to improve the shape of the tooth or to strengthen a tooth. They are most commonly used for broken, worn out teeth, or teeth with parts destroyed by decay. A crown is like a “cap” attached to an existing tooth that completely covers the part of the tooth above the gum line.
Porcelain crowns are most often preferred because they mimic the translucency of natural teeth and are very strong. Prosthodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. Prosthodontists diagnose, treat, and maintain dental function, comfort, and appearance for patients with missing or damaged teeth.
