The Qualifications of a Prosthodontist
If you’re looking for a doctor to help with complex cosmetic or restorative dental services, consider visiting a prosthodontist for help. While a general dentist provides excellent care for some cosmetic and restorative treatments, prosthodontists have at least three years of advanced training beyond dental school that enables them to help patients who have cases that require more advanced treatment.
What Makes a Prosthodontist Different from Other Dental Professionals?
To answer this question, let’s look at the meaning of the word prosthodontist. “Prostho” comes from the Latin root that means to add to or replace; “dontist” derives from the Greek word for tooth, “odon.” Hence, a prosthodontist is the recognized expert in the field of dentistry for replacing anything in the mouth. Prosthodontists can replace a single missing tooth or even all of the teeth, as well as gum tissue in your mouth.
During their additional education, prosthodontists are trained to address the problems that result from missing teeth and jaw structure. They are skilled at providing dental implants, crown and bridge, full and partial dentures and the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. With expertise and experience, prosthodontists are like architects and artists creating beautiful and healthy smiles. Often, general dentists refer their patients to prosthodontists, but referrals are not necessary.
Selecting a Prosthodontist
If you’ve been told that you have a particularly complex dental case, then you may want to select a prosthodontist. Dr. Schaeffer, Dr. Derksen, and Dr. Hildebrand have the advanced education, expertise, and experience to address issues that general dentists may not often see. Moreover, a prosthodontist is able to use advanced technology so you are certain to receive the most up-to-date treatment.
For more information about prosthodontics, call our office. Dr. Schaeffer, Dr. Derksen, and Dr. Hildebrand would be happy to consult with you. Alternatively, you can visit the website of the American College of Prosthodontists to learn more about this dental specialty.
Advanced Dental Care for Geriatric Patients
At Dallas Esthetics, we understand that smiles become more delicate as we age. We have the training and experience needed to provide gentle, compassionate service. But it’s not just in the area of oral health that some seniors have special needs. Every day, we’re putting our experience to work creating beautiful smiles for seniors who have complicated medical or cognitive factors to consider. If you’d like to learn more about how we can help seniors with special needs, please contact our helpful dental team.
Advanced Dental Care for Dallas Dental Pediatric Patients
There are times—though it’s not common—when a child is born with one or more teeth missing. It is not entirely understood what causes this to happen, but there are several conditions believed to contribute to this problem, including:
- Viral infections or high fevers as an infant
- Metabolic disorders
- Trauma
- Taking medication at a young age
- Genetic defects
A child with congenitally missing teeth may need specialized care from a prosthodontist and other dental specialists. Our team works closely with the patients and their families to ensure their son or daughter receives the help they need. With our comprehensive range of restorative and cosmetic services, we can help children in this situation live the normal life they deserve.