Pros.tho.don.tics - n, the branch of dentistry pertaining to the restoration and maintenance of oral function, comfort, appearance, and health of the patient by the restoration of natural teeth and/or the replacement of missing teeth and craniofacial tissues with artificial substitutes.

Pros.tho.don.tist - n, a specialist in prosthodontics

A Prosthodontist is a fully trained specialist in Prosthetic Dentistry. This specialty is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). After completing four years of dental school, Prosthodontists receive three additional years of specialized training in an American Dental Association accredited graduate education program.

A Prosthodontist provides an extremely high level of care for patients who are missing teeth or have significant damage to their existing teeth. Prosthodontists deal with congenital defects as well as problems arising from trauma and neglect. In addition, Prosthodontists can aid in the rehabilitation of a complete dentition or merely in the replacement of one or two teeth. Prosthodontists can supply the control and expertise that is necessary to make dental implants look and function properly.

Prosthodontists will usually treat the more difficult dental problems such as people who are missing teeth or have significant functional or aesthetic problems. For example, when it comes to restoring an entire arch or the whole mouth, a prosthodontist is indicated for this difficult and complex type of dental treatment. Patients contemplating dental implants or major changes in their appearance should consult with a prosthodontist to assure that they are gaining the best possible care for their dentition.

As for the specific procedures, prosthodontists have special expertise in dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, partial dentures, major reconstruction, traumatic injuries, oral cancer reconstruction, TMD (jaw joint problems), complete oral rehabilitation and complex care management involving multiple specialists.