When you first hear the word prosthodontics, it might not mean much to you. However, it represents some of the most advanced and impactful solutions in dentistry. The word itself has the same origin as prosthetics in other branches of medicine—the ancient Greek prosthesis meant “addition” or “replacement.” Prosthodontics is more than just a big word; it’s a practice that offers all kinds of tooth replacement options.

The Role of Prosthodontics

Keeping your natural teeth is typically the desired outcome when dealing with any dental issue. However, that isn’t always possible. There are many situations where saving a tooth isn’t possible, or extraction is the only way to safeguard long-term oral health. In these cases, prosthodontics provides an effective restorative dentistry option to replace a missing tooth.

You might already have one or more missing teeth. Many people live with missing teeth for years before considering prosthodontics. However, it’s better for your long-term oral health to replace a missing tooth as soon as possible. The gap left by missing teeth causes the other teeth to shift out of alignment. If you’re missing many teeth, then you’re also at risk of jawbone deterioration.

Prosthodontics is also a potential option when developing a treatment plan for damaged or decayed teeth. While you might still have the tooth, serious damage and decay can require extraction to prevent infection and avoid pain. Ideally, your dentist will already have a plan for tooth replacement ready before moving forward with the extraction.

The appearance of your smile is also a potential reason to consider prosthodontics. Not all prosthodontics involve completely replacing teeth, but it can also mean altering them. If you have concerns, such as cracks, chips, misshapen teeth, gaps, or permanent stains, prosthodontics might be the right choice to revitalize your smile.

Prosthodontic Treatment Options

Prosthodontics encompasses a wide range of treatment options. The variety of treatments and procedures means that an effective solution is available for nearly any case. Each of these tools has something to offer in specific situations.

Dentures are a common choice for tooth replacement due to their low cost and non-invasive nature. Both full and partial dentures are available and deliver a fast and effective solution for missing teeth. However, some common downsides include limited durability, slipping and discomfort, and inadequate protection against jawbone deterioration.

Dental implants are among the latest innovations in dentistry. Tooth implants rely on titanium posts embedded in the jawbone to provide a solid foundation, whether you’re replacing one, several, or all of your teeth. They also mimic the effect of natural teeth in preventing jawbone deterioration. The tooth implant looks natural and allows for natural eating and speaking ability.

The impact of dental implants before and after treatment shows a clear improvement in quality of life. However, they aren’t right for everyone. They require oral surgery for implant placement. Existing medical conditions could stop you from getting dental implants, or you might need additional procedures before moving forward.

Crowns and bridges are also common examples of prosthodontics that use natural teeth as a foundation. A crown provides protection for a single tooth that has been damaged or decayed. A dental bridge spans the gap where a tooth is missing by sitting over surrounding teeth. These are excellent options, but they are only viable when natural teeth are available to support them.

Each of these solutions is carefully customized to suit your unique smile. They incorporate modern materials that match the appearance, strength, and durability of natural teeth.

Why choose prosthodontics?

Prosthodontic treatment helps countless patients restore their quality of life. Treatment improves the ability to speak naturally and to bite and chew. This improved function also brings a boost in confidence that can help people with missing teeth approach more social situations.

Of course, the appearance of your restored smile is another major benefit. Whether filling a few gaps or completely replacing your smile, prosthodontics offer beautiful, natural-looking replacement teeth. You won’t have to be afraid to share your smile with the world anymore.

Long-term oral health is another key benefit. Replacing individual missing teeth stops surrounding teeth from shifting into the gap, an issue that would require orthodontic treatment to correct, eventually. Dental implants, in particular, provide excellent outcomes, with the implants preventing long-term jawbone deterioration.

Finding the right solution to restore your smile.

Do you currently have missing teeth, or are you facing extensive tooth decay or other issues? Prosthodontics—with options like dental crowns, dentures, dental implants, and more—could be the right solution to restore your smile. You can find a full range of prosthodontics near Buffalo, Minnesota, with Dental Care Associates of Buffalo. Come and see us to discuss your unique needs and discover treatment options to restore the look and function of your smile. Schedule your consultation today.