What Conditions Are Treated with Dental Prosthodontics?

Learn About the Transformative Power of Prosthodontic Treatment

Have you lost teeth recently due to gum disease, oral cancer, or an accident?

Whether you realize it or not, even just one missing tooth can have a long-term impact on your oral health and increase your risk for dental problems in the future. Dental prosthodontics is a specialized area of dentistry that focuses on restoration for both aesthetic and functional purposes.

A prosthodontic dentist has advanced training in the field, completing 3 additional years after dental school.

If you’re wondering if you should see a prosthodontist for your current condition, then you’ve come to the right place. Penn Dental Medicine is home to the only graduate prosthodontics program in the Philadelphia area, where our affordable prosthodontist costs make it possible for many local patients to access our services.
Learn more about common prosthodontic disorders and how they can be treated, below.

Missing Teeth

Patients most commonly seek prosthodontics treatment when they are in need of tooth repair or replacement. Gum disease constitutes the number one cause of tooth loss in the United States, though many patients need replacement because of cavities or accidents as well. When it comes time to select an affordable option to replace your missing tooth, a prosthodontist is equipped to advise you on the right course of treatment. Whether you need prosthodontic implants, a crown, a bridge, dentures, or some combination of these, your prosthodontist will recommend the appropriate solutions to your oral health concerns.

Sleep Apnea

This condition is due to a temporary pause in breathing during sleep. The lungs cannot take in the oxygen they need, leading to poor sleep quality and fatigue during the day. One treatment involves the use of a Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure (CPAP) machine, which brings air into the lungs throughout the night. When sleep apnea is mild or if the patient can’t tolerate the machine, a prosthodontist can help with a customized oral appliance. The appliance is a more natural method for treating apnea, repositioning the jaw and/or tongue to improve airflow during sleep.

Oral Cancer Restoration

Prosthodontists are equipped to coordinate teams of specialists and lead restorative treatment  for patients with oral cancer. The Oral Cancer Foundation has found that incidence of oral cancer is rising among people under age 40, which is thought to be due to the increased use of e-cigarettes. Oral cancer is not limited to tobacco users, and roughly 53,000 Americans are diagnosed each year.  Following chemotherapy, many patients will need to undergo complex restorative work. A prosthodontist has the expertise necessary to plan and execute a treatment plan.

Structural Problems

Many people seek dental prosthodontics treatment for a variety of structural conditions, including bruxism, cleft palate, and trauma. Each of these disorders requires a targeted, specific approach for the best outcomes. Prosthodontists are experienced in performing complex oral surgery for both repair and cosmetic purposes. A prosthodontist can improve your appearance by fixing broken or discolored teeth and the associated structures with esthetic crowns, veneers, bonding, and customized prostheses. Occlusion and genetic facial deficits can also be rehabilitated using special prosthodontic techniques. When you complete treatment, you will be amazed at the difference in your smile!

Prosthodontic Treatment at Penn Dental Medicine

At your first prosthodontic visit, you will meet a University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine faculty member who will perform a brief examination and ask questions about your medical history. A routine oral cancer screening will be administered, as well as dental radiograph in some cases. This screening appointment requires a referral from the patient’s general dentist or other doctor and will be used to determine whether you are eligible to become a patient. Patients accepted into our program will be assigned to a postdoctoral resident overseen by a faculty member. All prosthodontic services are provided at affordable prices and held to the highest quality standard. To schedule your dental prosthodontics consultation, please call 215-898-8965 today!