Prosthodontics Questions

What is prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is a dental specialty that handles the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from complex conditions caused by missing teeth and/or craniofacial tissues. Prosthodontics is one of the nine dentistry specializations recognized by the American Dental Association, and highly trained dentists in the field may apply for certification. The range of services may go from a simple filling to a full mouth restoration. The treatment depends on your needs, wants and desires. A certified prosthodontist is your assurance of knowledge, skill and quality of treatment.

Why should I see a prosthodontist for my dentures or dental implants when my regular dentist offers them?

A prosthodontist has special training to handle very complex problems and provide a better functioning and complete solution. Most dentists will have to refer you to a specialist for Dental implants. Prosthodontists do more than just replace missing teeth. They can rehabilitate you entire mouth and even correct facial deformities.

What kind of special training do you need to be a prosthodontist?

In addition to learning general dentistry, prosthodontists have special training in many areas including:

• Trauma to the structures of the mouth
• Oral cancer reconstruction
• Neuromuscular dentistry
• Congenital defects
• Dental implants
• Dentures
• Cosmetic dentistry

My missing teeth are not visible. Is it really necessary to replace them?

Yes. The problems caused by missing teeth go far beyond cosmetics and can seriously damage your dental health. The many problems that missing teeth can cause include:

• Shifting teeth
• Decay
• Gum disease
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty chewing leading to TMD and/or poor nutrition
• Changes in the look of your face

What kind of prosthodontics solutions does Dr. Green offer?

Dr. Green offers several solutions for missing teeth including:

• Dental implants
• Dentures
• Partials
• Cemented bridges

Will my replacement teeth look fake?

No. All of our prosthodontic solutions use porcelain, which is perfectly matched to the color of your natural teeth. We will also match your false teeth to the shape of your natural teeth so they look natural and real (instead of the cookie cutter look of older dentures). Porcelain reacts with light in a way that looks vibrant and alive.

Will my replacement teeth make it difficult for me to chew and speak normally?

No. If you need a full set of dentures, you will have a brief adjustment period, but all of our prosthodontics solutions are made to be a perfect fit, so they are comfortable and stable. Dr. Green’s neuromuscular dentistry training allows him to create solutions that align properly for comfortable chewing and to prevent future damage to your teeth and jaw.

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If you are missing teeth in New Jersey, learn more by reading our prosthodontics page. Please contact us today to schedule your free initial prosthodontics consultation.