Periodontics and prosthodontics are two dental specialties that may sound similar but are actually quite different. A periodontist focuses on the tissues that surround teeth and placing dental implants, while a prosthodontist specializes in making and placing dentures, bridges, and other appliances for people who are missing teeth. A periodontist is a dentist who has completed an additional three years of study within a residency training program in periodontics. On the other hand, a prosthodontist has completed three years of postdoctoral training and specializes in providing functional and aesthetic services to their patients.
Prosthodontists can work with people who have birth defects or injuries that have affected their ability to communicate, so they must be compassionate and have strong communication skills. Prosthodontists take a whole-mouth approach and receive intensive training that goes beyond general dentistry to focus on some of the most advanced procedures in dentistry. They can also provide cosmetic procedures to improve the alignment and symmetry of teeth. Aspiring periodontists and prosthodontists may be interested in other dental specialties, such as being an orthodontist.
The goals of a prosthodontist's treatment focus on functionality, aesthetics, oral health and comfort. After completing 3 or more years of specialized training, prosthodontists are well versed in aesthetic and restorative dental procedures. They specialize in restoring or replacing teeth using implants, veneers, crowns, bridges, and other methods. If you want whiter, more symmetrical teeth, you can visit a prosthodontist for a teeth whitening session or tooth remodeling procedure.
A prosthodontist is a specialist who treats dental and facial problems that involve replacing missing teeth, restoring the jaw, and is trained to treat TMJ disorder, place dental crowns and bridges, dentures, and dental implants. After finishing dental school, those interested in specializing as prosthodontists must complete a residency and obtain a license in their specialty.
