When you think about your oral health, you likely consider routine cleanings and cavity fillings, but there’s a specialized field dedicated to restoring both the function and esthetics of teeth. A dentist trained in the restoration of teeth is called a prosthodontist and can repair, replace, and enhance your teeth for a healthier, more confident smile.
A prosthodontist is a dental professional who specializes in advanced dental restoration, including crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants. A prosthodontist is vital in not only addressing cosmetic concerns but also ensuring your teeth and gums function correctly. While there are general dentists who address dental restoration, not all dentists have the advanced training of prosthodontists. It could be said that all prosthodontists restore teeth, but not all dentists who restore teeth are prosthodontists.
Whether you have cracked teeth, tooth loss, or require dentures, crowns, or bridges, the prosthodontists at Triangle Restoration Dentistry offer restorative dentistry treatments in Durham, NC. Call 888.280.2678 today, and let us restore your smile and confidence!
How Does a General Dentist Differ from a Prosthodontist?
It’s common to hear the term “prosthodontist” when discussing dentists who restore teeth. While both general dentists and prosthodontists repair and enhance your teeth, there are significant differences in their training and scope of services.
As mentioned above, prosthodontists are specialists who receive additional years of advanced education and training beyond dental school. Their expertise covers complex restorations, including full-mouth reconstructions, dentures, and implant-supported prosthetics. A general dentist typically addresses moderate restoration needs, while more intricate cases, such as jaw misalignment or full arch replacements, are often referred to prosthodontists for specialized care.
Essentially, think of a prosthodontist as a dentist with additional expertise in advanced, highly technical restorative cases. Many general dentists provide restorative dentistry services, but you may work with a prosthodontist for intricate conditions requiring an additional level of care.
What Is Involved in Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and replacing damaged or missing teeth. To achieve this, a wide variety of procedures and treatments are available. Below are some of the main services they provide:
- Dental crowns and bridges – When a tooth is significantly damaged or decayed, a restoration dentist may recommend a dental crown to protect and strengthen it. Bridges are used to replace missing teeth by anchoring a prosthetic tooth to the adjacent natural teeth.
- Dental implants – Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for tooth loss. They involve placing a titanium post into the jawbone to act as a tooth root, which is then topped with a crown for a realistic replacement that restores both aesthetics and function.
- Dentures (full and partial) – For patients missing multiple teeth, dentures are a viable option. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, while partial dentures fill in gaps using the patient’s existing teeth for support.
- Veneers – Veneers are thin shells placed on the front of teeth to improve their appearance. Restoration dentists also use veneers to cover minor imperfections, correct inconsistencies, or enhance cosmetic appeal.
These procedures go beyond fixing dental problems—they preserve oral health, prevent further issues, and improve your overall quality of life.
Benefits of Prosthodontic Dentistry
A prosthodontist doesn’t only rebuild smiles—it improves a person’s overall health and happiness. Here’s a look at some of the key advantages:
- Restored functionality – Treatments like crowns, implants, and bridges allow patients to eat, speak, and smile without hindrance or discomfort.
- Improved esthetics – Modern restorative materials and techniques blend with natural teeth, ensuring your restored teeth look as good as they feel.
- Preservation of natural teeth – Prosthodontic dentistry often focuses on saving your existing teeth when possible, reducing the need for extractions, and enhancing oral health.
- Boost in confidence – A brighter, healthier smile can work wonders for self-esteem and confidence, helping you make a great impression wherever you go.
- Long-term oral health – Fixed restorations and regular maintenance can prevent future oral health problems and reduce the risk of further tooth loss.
The benefits of restorative dental services, like those offered by the prosthodontists at Triangle Restoration Dentistry, can be life-changing.
Schedule Your Consultation with Triangle Restoration Dentistry in Durham, NC
If you’re dealing with dental issues or simply looking to improve your smile, Triangle Restoration Dentistry in Durham, NC, is here to help. Our team specializes in advanced prosthodontic dentistry, ensuring your oral health and confidence are in the best hands.
Contact Triangle Restoration Dentistry online today or call 888.280.2678 to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward a healthier, more beautiful you!