6 Things You Should Know About Prosthodontics

Dental Specialists of Niles • Dec 10, 2022

Prosthodontics treats aesthetic dentistry, dental implants, and help to replace teeth. Learn more about prosthodontics from your local dentist in Niles, IL.

At least 21% of dentists are specialists. Everyone knows about the more popular ones such as orthodontics, but prosthodontics is an unsung hero among them.

This specialization helps solve cosmetic and medical issues. The extra training teaches dentists how to handle complex cases that involve the teeth and even the jaw.

If you develop an issue that requires their extra knowledge, you'll be glad that you know who they are and what they can do. Read on to learn 6 important facts about prosthodontics. 

1. What Is Prosthodontics?

Dental prosthodontics is the branch that specializes in replacing and restoring missing or damaged teeth. It can also involve surgery or cosmetic procedures that improve the appearance of teeth. 

2. How Does It Differ From General Dentists?

Prosthodontics and general dentists may offer some of the same dental services, but that's mostly a way to make it convenient for everyone at the office. They're not the same types of professionals, and the main difference is the training they receive. 

A prosthodontist has to go through a more rigorous training program before they can earn their title. They study for at least three more years than a general dentist.

They learn about how to shape the teeth and gums in restorative procedures and install prosthetics. They also learn about more specialized cosmetic procedures. 

This knowledge makes them valuable members of any dental team. They can work alongside the rest as a second pair of eyes. They may also be brought in when a complex case sits in the chair and the general dentist doesn't know what to do.

3. What Does It Treat?

The primary reason you'll want to see a prosthodontist is if you have missing, decayed, or damaged teeth, but other conditions may also lead you to them.

A prosthodontist can relieve birth defects such as cleft palates. This may involve surgery or special prosthetics.

One of the most common jaw issues they treat is TMJ. It's a painful jaw condition that affects at least 10 million patients around the world.

They can also reshape the mouth to treat other conditions. Their expertise can help you sleep better. 50-70 million Americans have a sleep disorder and 25 million have obstructive sleep apnea. 

Prosthodontics often install prosthetics that relieve cosmetic issues. They cover unsightly teeth, and there are several types to choose from based on your needs and preferences. 

4. What Procedures Does It Include?

All prosthodontics understand the structure of the mouth and face, but maxillofacial prosthodontics is the segment that's focused the most on surgery. They can reshape the jaw to help with birth defects, TMJ, and other serious issues.


Implants are one of the most common prosthodontic procedures with a market worth over $4.6 billion. Installing them involves removing a tooth's root and replacing it with a false ceramic or porcelain tooth. It eventually fuses and becomes almost unnoticeable. 


Bridges and implants fill the gap in your mouth that remains if you've lost more than one tooth. They link together one or more crowns into a single unit. They'll improve your health and self-esteem because they help you eat and speak better while also hiding the hole in your smile. 


Dentures are another way to hide several teeth in a row. Many patients don't consider them an option, but they've advanced over time. They're more natural-looking than they've ever been, and they're also removable.


Veneers are crowns that cover lost or damaged teeth. They're shells made of materials such as porcelain or ceramics. They go over the teeth. They can even be installed for cosmetic benefits if you just want your smile to look nicer. 



If you grind your teeth at night or have TMJ, a prosthodontist can give you a custom-made night guard. This will lessen the pain and pressure on your jaw. 

5. What Benefits Does It Provide?

Finding a prosthodontist office is worth the effort because of the wide range of services they offer. You won't have to go all around town to find a place to get a cleaning and get a crown. A prosthodontist also knows how to align your bite and make sure that your entire mouth is working the way it should.


This will improve your overall health because you'll chew more thoroughly. 


Cosmetic procedures such as veneers or crowns performed by prosthodontists will blend in with your natural teeth. You'll be able to walk away with more self-confidence. 


Going to a prosthodontist will give you peace of mind. You can lay in the chair knowing their extra education has given them the knowledge to perform any procedures you need.



Decide how much that peace of mind is worth to you before you go. Prosthodontists are specialists and tend to charge more than a general dentist. Your health is the most important thing, but make sure you can afford their services.

6. How Can I Choose an Office?

Your search for the "best dentists in Nile, IL" should include prosthodontists. Make sure they're qualified and have completed the courses to earn their specialization.


Look for word-of-mouth recommendations from your friends and family. Check out review sites to see what past customers thought about them.



That should narrow down the list of dentists in Nile, IL. Once it does, try to visit as many as you can in person. See if their clinic is clean, inviting, and running smoothly. Talk to the wait staff and see if you can get a consultation to determine how you and the dentist will get along. You want to find a place you'll feel comfortable returning to.

Where Do I Start?

Prosthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on restoring and repairing broken or missing teeth. This includes procedures such as crowns, veneers, and even surgery in certain cases.


If you've been looking for a dentist in Niles, IL, that offers prosthodontics, make sure they're qualified. Ask for recommendations, look for reviews, and check out the office for yourself.



Let your search lead you to Dental Specialists of Niles, PC. Contact us today for all forms of dental care.

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