If you are in need of a prosthodontics, there is no need to feel overly anxious. At Winston-Salem Dental Specialists, our team is dedicated to helping our patients feel at ease before, during, and after their procedures.
Signs You May Need Prosthodontics
- Missing Teeth
- Difficulty Chewing or Speaking
- Worn, Broken or Damaged Teeth
- Persistent Jaw Pain or Headaches
- Unsatisfactory Aesthetics
- Difficulty with Dentures or Partial Dentures
What is Prosthodontics?
Prosthodontics is a dental specialty focusing on the restoration of complex dental conditions including the replacement of missing teeth, tooth structure, and supportive facial structures. Prosthodontists are dental specialists who are trained to diagnose, plan, and execute treatments to restore optimal function, comfort, and appearance to patients with missing or damaged teeth.
What are Traditional Dentures?
Traditional dentures are a time-tested solution for patients with missing teeth. These custom-crafted dental prosthetics are designed to restore both functionality as well as your smile’s appearance. Dentures are crafted using materials such as acrylic, resin, nylon, metal and porcelain. They are versatile in that they can replace missing teeth in your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.
Types of Dentures
Winston-Salem Dental Specialists is proud to offer different types of dentures depending on your unique needs.
Full Dentures
Full dentures, also referred to as a complete denture, are designed to replace a full arch of missing teeth in either your upper or lower jaw. These appliances sit directly on the gums, supported by the palate or lower jawbone ridge (and potentially denture adhesive) to ensure a secure fit. Full dentures are typically removed at night for cleaning. When people envision traditional dentures, they are picturing full dentures.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are a great alternative to full dentures for those who have lost several teeth but still have some of their natural teeth remaining. These dentures take a piecemeal approach to tooth replacement, filling in the holes between your natural teeth and anchoring themselves using specialized clasps. A well-made partial denture is able to integrate seamlessly with your existing teeth to restore functionality and appearance.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures utilize dental implants placed into the jawbone to anchor a prosthetic in place. These dentures have become the gold standard in both form and function for patients with missing teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prosthodontics
What is the difference between a prosthodontist and a general dentist?
Prosthodontists are dental specialists who have undergone additional training beyond general dentistry to specialize in the restoration and replacement of missing teeth and other oral structures. They have expertise in complex dental treatments involving crowns, bridges, dental implants, dentures, and cosmetic dentistry.
What are dental implants, and are they suitable for me?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots for supporting dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Patients often inquire about the suitability of dental implants for their specific case, and prosthodontists can assess factors such as bone density, gum health, and overall oral health to determine if implants are a viable option.
How long do dental prosthetics last, and how do I maintain them?
Patients frequently ask about the longevity of dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, dentures, or dental implants, as well as the maintenance required to ensure their longevity. Prosthodontists can provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, regular dental check-ups, and potential lifestyle modifications to maximize the lifespan of prosthetic devices.
What are the available options for replacing missing teeth?
Patients often seek information about the various treatment options available for replacing missing teeth, including dental implants, bridges, and dentures. Prosthodontists can discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and suitability of each option based on the patient’s specific needs, preferences, and oral health status.
Got a question?
No problem.
We will schedule your appointment with Winston-Salem Dental Specialists as promptly as possible. If you have pain or an emergency situation, every attempt will be made to see you that day.
We value your time and do everything we can to stay on schedule and minimize your wait. While in our office, please enjoy your stay and have a nice beverage and relax in our serenity room; we also offer free WIFI to take care of some business during your visit. We appreciate your understanding and patience when unpredictable appointment delays occur.
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Winston-Salem Dental Specialists is a member of the following professional organizations (not all doctors belong to all these organizations):
