Prosthodontic Specialists
This speciality deals with the replacement of missing teeth, dentures, crowns and bridges. It also treats diseases of the hard and soft tissues which surround the teeth.
Tooth loss can occur at any age although this tends to happen as we get older. Accident, injury or illness are all factors in tooth loss and can result in unsightly gaps or cracked teeth.
Damaged or worn down teeth can be repaired either by fitting a crown or a porcelain veneer. Veneers are thin shells, often made of porcelain or ceramic which are fitted over the front of a tooth. This hides any visible signs of damage.
A crown or cap is a replacement tooth which fits neatly over the top of your existing tooth and conceals any damage. It also protects the tooth from further damage. If more than one crown is needed then a bridge is called for. This spans any gaps in your teeth and is attached either side to your natural teeth.
Dentures or ‘false teeth’ are used to replace missing teeth. They can be fixed or removable and have been around for a long time. They can become loose although dental implants can hold them firmly in place.
A prosthodontic specialist will discuss this treatment with a patient, taking into account their age, background, physiology and social factors.
This type of specialist often works in a community dental service, a dental hospital or a private clinic. They may also play in role in the education of both undergraduates and postgraduates.
Becoming a prosthodontic specialist means at least 2 years of postgraduate training and a Diploma of Membership of the Faculty in Dental Surgery (MFDS). Speciality training involves 3 years of training to sit the Master of Clinical Dentistry (MClintDent) in Prosthodontics. Candidates must also sit the Diploma in Membership in Restorative Dentistry (MRD) which is set by the Royal College of Surgeons.
Dental Specialists Guide Index:
- Dental and maxillofacial radiology Specialists
- Dental public health Specialists
- Endodontic Specialists
- Oral and maxillofacial pathology Specialists
- Oral medicine Specialists
- Oral microbiology Specialists
- Oral surgery Specialists
- Orthodontic Specialists
- Paediatric dentistry Specialists
- Periodontic Specialists
- Prosthodontic Specialists
- Restorative dentistry Specialists
- Special care dentistry Specialists