Q: My teeth have shifted after one was extracted. Can a prosthodontist help?

Yes. This condition, known as drifting teeth , often requires a team approach. A prosthodontist will plan the final restoration and coordinate with an orthodontist to move the drifted teeth back into their correct positions before replacing the missing tooth.

Question 1

What is the difference between a general dentist and a Prosthodontist?

Accepted Answer

While a general dentist can perform many restorative procedures, a prosthodontist has completed 3-4 years of additional, specialized training after dental school. They are the recognized experts in handling the most complex cases, such as full-mouth reconstructions, and have a deeper understanding of the dynamics of a smile and the preservation of a healthy mouth.

Question 2

When should I see a Prosthodontist?

Accepted Answer

You should see a prosthodontist if you are missing one or more teeth, are interested in dental implants, wear dentures, or want to improve the aesthetics of your smile with cosmetic treatments like veneers. They are the experts for any complex restorative or replacement needs.

Question 3

What are inlays and onlays?

Accepted Answer

Inlays and onlays are a more conservative alternative to a full crown. An inlay fits within the cusps (bumps) of a tooth, while an onlay covers one or more cusps. They are used to repair teeth with damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full crown.

Question 4

How do I clean and care for my dental prosthetics?

Accepted Answer

For fixed prosthetics like crowns and bridges, you brush and floss them like natural teeth, using a floss threader to clean under the bridge. Removable dentures must be taken out daily, brushed with a denture brush, and soaked in a cleaning solution. Regular check-ups are essential to ensure they fit properly and are in good condition.

Question 5

What is the difference between a partial denture and a dental bridge?

Accepted Answer

A removable partial denture replaces multiple missing teeth and is held in place by clasps around existing teeth; it can be taken out. A dental bridge is a fixed solution that is permanently cemented to the teeth adjacent to the gap.

Question 6

Can a prosthodontist perform cosmetic procedures?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Prosthodontists are masters of cosmetic dentistry. Their advanced training in smile aesthetics makes them the ideal specialists for procedures like porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, and complete smile makeovers.

Question 7

What is an implant-supported denture?

Accepted Answer

An implant-supported denture (or overdenture) is a removable denture that snaps onto a small number of dental implants. This provides significantly more stability and comfort than a traditional denture that just rests on the gums.

Question 8

How long do dental prosthetics last?

Accepted Answer

Longevity varies. With proper care, crowns and bridges can last 10-15 years or more. Dentures may need relining or replacement every 5-10 years as the jaw changes. Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution that can last a lifetime.

Question 9

What is a 'fixed-detachable' implant bridge?

Accepted Answer

This is a type of full-arch restoration, like All-on-4, where the full set of teeth is screwed onto the implants. It is fixed in place and not removable by the patient, but it can be detached by the dentist for professional cleaning and maintenance.

Question 10

My teeth have shifted after one was extracted. Can a prosthodontist help?

Accepted Answer

Yes. This condition, known as drifting teeth, often requires a team approach. A prosthodontist will plan the final restoration and coordinate with an orthodontist to move the drifted teeth back into their correct positions before replacing the missing tooth.

Feature	Fixed (Crowns/Bridges)	Removable (Dentures)	Implant-Supported
Stability	High - Cemented in place	Low - Can move or slip	Very High - Anchored to bone
Bone Health	Does not prevent bone loss	Accelerates bone loss	Preserves and stimulates bone
Longevity	10-15+ years	5-10 years (needs relining)	Lifetime (for implants)
Initial Cost	Moderate	Low	High

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