Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of oral function, comfort, appearance, and health in patients with missing or deficient teeth and oral structures. Prosthodontists are dental specialists trained to provide comprehensive and advanced dental care, particularly in the design, fabrication, and placement of dental prostheses (artificial replacements).

The field of prosthodontics encompasses various types of dental prostheses, including:

1. Dental Crowns: Custom-made caps that cover a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.

2. Dental Bridges: Fixed prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent teeth.

3. Dentures: Removable appliances used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Dentures can be complete (for replacing all teeth) or partial (for replacing some teeth).

4. Dental Implants: Surgical placement of artificial tooth roots (implants) into the jawbone, which can then support individual crowns, bridges, or dentures.

5. Veneers: Thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance, particularly for cosmetic purposes.

6. Inlays and Onlays: Custom-made restorations used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. Inlays fit into the chewing surface of a tooth, while onlays extend over one or more cusps.

7. Maxillofacial Prosthetics: Prosthodontic treatment for patients who have acquired defects or congenital conditions affecting the head and neck, such as those resulting from cancer, trauma, or birth abnormalities.