About the direction
Prosthetic Dentistry
Prosthetic dentistry is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of defects of the dentoalveolar system.
The primary goal of a prosthodontist is to restore both the function and aesthetics of the teeth through various prosthetic techniques.
Types of dental prosthetics
Removable Prosthetics
These are dental appliances that can be taken out for cleaning or during sleep. They are suitable for patients who are missing multiple teeth.
Fixed Prosthetics
Fixed restorations are permanently attached to existing teeth or implants and cannot be removed by the patient. They include crowns, veneers, bridges, inlays, and onlays.
-
Crowns cover and protect damaged teeth.
-
Bridges replace one or more missing teeth.
-
Inlays and onlays restore partially damaged teeth.
Implant-Based Prosthetics
Dental implants are modern and reliable replacements for lost teeth. A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone, serving as an artificial root to which crowns, bridges, or even removable dentures can be attached.
The choice of method is made by the prosthodontist after an examination and discussion with the patient, taking into account the oral condition, remaining teeth, bite alignment, bone structure, personal preferences, and financial considerations.
Main objectives of prosthetic dentistry
1. Restoration of Chewing Function
Chewing function is essential for proper digestion and overall health. Missing teeth make it difficult to chew food efficiently, which can lead to digestive issues.
Removable and fixed prosthetics, as well as dental implants, help fully restore chewing ability. Implants act as artificial roots that securely anchor crowns and bridges, replicating natural teeth in both function and durability.
2. Preservation of Natural Teeth
A key goal of prosthetic dentistry is to preserve the patient’s own teeth whenever possible.
This is achieved through the use of crowns and post-and-core restorations that strengthen and stabilize weakened teeth.
A post-and-core restoration (or cast post) is a solid structure inserted into the tooth root canal, serving as a base for a future crown.
Such restorations are used when:
-
More than 80% of the tooth structure is destroyed;
-
The tooth experiences high chewing load requiring additional reinforcement.
Contraindications include excessive tooth mobility, periodontal disease, or allergies to restorative materials (metals, ceramics, or zirconium dioxide).
Treatment of edentulism (Tooth Loss)
Edentulism is the absence of one, several, or all teeth. It can be congenital (0.9–1% of cases) or acquired (due to disease, trauma, or aging).
Prosthetic dentists treat edentulism using:
-
Partial or complete removable dentures;
-
Fixed restorations;
-
Implant-based prosthetics.
Untreated edentulism leads to changes in facial features — sunken lips, deep nasolabial folds, sagging mouth corners, and increased facial wrinkles. It also affects chewing efficiency, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function, and even speech clarity, particularly after front-tooth loss.
When to see a prosthodontist
You should schedule a visit if you have:
-
Loss of one or more teeth;
-
Complete tooth loss (edentulism);
-
Severe tooth destruction;
-
Aesthetic issues — changes in tooth shape, color, or alignment;
-
Tooth trauma — chips, fractures, or cracks;
-
Increased tooth sensitivity;
-
Abnormal enamel wear;
-
Jaw or TMJ pain;
-
A need to replace old or uncomfortable prosthetics.
If you’re unsure whether you need a prosthodontist, start with a therapeutic dentist. They will assess the condition of your teeth and gums, develop a treatment plan, and refer you to the appropriate specialist if necessary.
