NP DENTAL CLINIC

What is a prosthodontist ?

A prosthodontist is a dentist with additional education in the restoration and replacement of missing teeth as well as a wide variety of other esthetic and cosmetic procedures. Prosthodontics is one of only nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA).

What training do prosthodontists have ?

After Graduating from dental school, prosthodontists complete a three or four year ADA-accredited residency Diplomate American Board of Prosthodontics program. It includes lectures and seminars, and intensive laboratory and clinical experience in fabricating crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays, complete and removable partial dentures, and dental implants.

Residents also receive extensive training in diagnosing and treating temporomandibular disorders (TMD) of the jaw, traumatic injuries to oral structures, and congenital or birth anomalies such as cleft palate, and oral cancer reconstruction. In addition, they are qualified to manage bruxism and sleep apnea disorders such as snoring.

Prosthodontists are dedicated to the highest standards of care in the restoration and replacement of teeth. Your prosthodontist will work closely with you to develop a comprehensive plan to treat your specific situation and explain what results you can expect.

What does it mean to be Board Certified in Prosthodontics ?

After completing an accredited residency program, prosthodontists have the option of applying for Board certification in the specialty. The process, which is administered by the American Board of Prosthodontics, is similar to that in other dental and medical fields.

Subsequent to completing a comprehensive written examination, candidates must present three patient cases and defend their diagnosis, treatment, and results to a panel of examiners, all of whom are experienced Board Certified prosthodontists.

After successfully challenging the multipart process, which requires approximately four years, the prosthodontist becomes certified and is recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics. To maintain their certification, Diplomates must demonstrate their commitment to their continuing professional education by attending or presenting scientific lectures or publishing articles or textbook chapters.