PROSTHODONTICS EXPLAINED
What Is A Prosthodontist?
A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the restoration and replacement of broken down, worn or missing teeth.
Prosthodontists have undertaken additional specialised training to attain their qualification. This usually consists of an additional three-year full time university program on top of their initial undergraduate dental training and a minimum two years of practicing as a general dentist. Only dentists who have completed a recognised study program can register as a specialist in prosthodontics.
Prosthodontists may work closely with general dentists, either to address particular problem areas, after which you may return to them, or to manage larger cases.
Why See A Prosthodontist?
Thanks to their extensive study, prosthodontists have the broadest understanding of treatment modalities and their influencing factors and are often seen as the ‘architect’ of the treatment plan in complex cases. This may involve coordination with other dental specialists and allied health professionals to ensure the best possible outcome.
While there are many labels such as “specialising in cosmetic and implant procedures”, “cosmetic dentists”, “implant specialists”, “implantologists” and “implant institutes” in marketing and advertising materials, these dentists are not necessarily recognised or registered as dental specialists by the dental regulatory authorities.
You can easily check if your dentist is a registered specialist in Australia by searching on the AHPRA website (https://www.ahpra.gov.au/)
All dental procedures carry risk, but you can reduce the chance of risk and complications by consulting a specialist prosthodontist who is trained, qualified and accredited to perform reconstructive, aesthetic and implant dentistry. Therefore in challenging and complex cases, your general dentist may refer you to a prosthodontist for management. Alternatively, you can contact us directly on (08) 8363 3755 to discuss your dental needs – no referral is required.
What Does A Prosthodontist Do?
A prosthodontist is specially trained to provide the highest standard of care in the most challenging of dental cases.
Often we will work in a team with other dental specialists and your general dentist to tailor a treatment plan to suit your individual needs.
We commonly deal with cases of:
- Excessive tooth wear or dental erosion
- Highly aesthetically demanding cases
- Heavily restored teeth or multiple missing teeth
- Failing or terminal dentition
- Unsatisfactory conventional removable dentures
- Highly anxious patients who may require treatment under sedation
Have a Question? Call Us Now
(08) 8166 1660
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info@phpros.com.au
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241 Payneham Road Joslin, SA 5070