Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of the oral function, comfort, appearance, and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible substitutes.

History

The history of Prosthodontics can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians, who used gold wire to stabilize loose teeth and artificial teeth made from bone. The field has evolved significantly over the centuries, with advancements in technology and materials greatly improving the quality and effectiveness of prosthetic treatments.

Types of Prosthodontics

There are three main types of prosthodontics: fixed, removable, and maxillofacial.

• Fixed Prosthodontics involves the replacement of missing teeth with prosthetics that are permanently attached to natural teeth or implants. This includes crowns, bridges, and implant-supported crowns.

• Removable Prosthodontics involves the use of removable appliances to replace missing teeth. This includes dentures and partial dentures.

• Maxillofacial Prosthodontics is a sub-specialty of prosthodontics that focuses on the rehabilitation of patients with defects or disabilities that were present when born, or developed due to disease or trauma. This includes the use of prosthetics to replace missing facial and oral structures.

Prosthodontic Procedures

Prosthodontic procedures can range from simple to complex, depending on the patient's needs. Some common procedures include:

• Dental Implants - These are used to replace the root portion of a missing tooth. They are surgically placed in the jawbone and serve as an anchor for replacement teeth.

• Dental Crowns - These are used to cover a damaged tooth or an implant. They are custom made to fit over the entire tooth, from the gum line up.

• Dental Bridges - These are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are anchored to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space.

• Dentures - These are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They can be complete (replacing all teeth) or partial (replacing some teeth).

Education and Training

Becoming a prosthodontist requires an additional three to four years of training after obtaining a degree in dentistry. This training includes studying the complexities of the mouth and jaw, learning about the different types of prosthetic options, and gaining hands-on experience treating patients.

See Also

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Orthodontics
• Periodontics
• Endodontics