If you or a loved one are suffering from or concerned about damaged, missing, misshapen, or discolored teeth, you should consider visiting a prosthodontist in Philadelphia. What does a prosthodontist do, and how can they help you? We’ve got the answers to the most commonly asked prosthodontic questions.
7 Top Questions Answered About Prosthodontists in Philadelphia
1. What Is a Prosthodontist?
Prosthodontists are specialized dentists who focus on restoring the appearance of your teeth and mouth. Prosthodontists are experts in esthetic dentistry as well as full-mouth restoration. They have advanced training and experience in:
- Dental implants.
- Dental crowns.
- Bridges.
- Dentures.
- Veneers.
- Cosmetic bonding and more.
They work closely with other specialties, including periodontics and oral surgery, to create a comprehensive treatment plan. Prosthodontists are recognized experts in reconstructive dentistry and can provide you with the best possible results for restoring your smile.
2. What Is the Difference Between a Prosthodontist and a Dentist?
The primary difference between a dentist and a prosthodontist is the amount of training each receives. Dentists receive general training in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases related to oral health. This includes performing routine cleanings, filling cavities, and treating conditions such as gum disease and TMJ disorder.
Prosthodontists receive advanced education in the restoration of teeth and full-mouth reconstruction. This involves utilizing various techniques to improve the appearance and function of your teeth, including implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, and more. Prosthodontists have extensive experience dealing with complex dental cases that require specialized attention.
3. What Symptoms Do You Have if You Need To See a Prosthodontist?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to schedule an appointment with a prosthodontist in Philadelphia:
- Difficulty in biting or chewing due to misaligned teeth or jaw.
- Trouble speaking clearly due to missing or poorly fitting dentures.
- Discoloration, chips, cracks, or wear on existing dental work.
- Gaps between teeth caused by missing teeth or severe decay.
- Tooth loss due to trauma, gum disease, or tooth decay.
- Uneven jaw alignment due to facial injury or genetics.
A prosthodontist can help improve the health and appearance of your smile when you are suffering from one of these problems and restore your damaged teeth to their former function. They can also help restore your confidence and quality of life with prosthodontic services!
4. What Happens When You Visit a Prosthodontist?
The prosthodontist will begin by performing a comprehensive exam and consultation to determine the best course of treatment. During this visit, your prosthodontist may take X-rays, scan your teeth, or take impressions to create custom treatments specifically for you. Your prosthodontist will discuss your available options and determine the most appropriate treatment.
5. Where Can You Find a Prosthodontist in Philadelphia?
At Penn Dental Medicine at PHMC Public Health Campus on Cedar, we offer a variety of services and state-of-the-art treatments that are safe, effective, and affordable. Our connection with the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine provides teaching clinics that allow senior student dentists to practice and develop their skills under the instruction and guidance of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine’s award-winning faculty. We work with you to create a comprehensive treatment plan that best suits your needs.
6. What Prosthodontic Services Does PDM at PHMC on Cedar Offer?
Crowns and bridges: A simple porcelain prosthesis that fits over existing teeth to make them look and work like new ones.- Dental implants: This procedure implants tooth roots made of metal, screwlike posts into the jaw to replace damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function much like real ones.
- Dentures: These are artificial replacement teeth and gums that are designed to look and function like natural teeth. When patients have many missing teeth, a prosthodontist might use complete, partial, or hybrid dentures to provide natural and aesthetic teeth.
- Maxillofacial prosthetics: A prosthodontist works with surgeons to correct the shape or position of the underlying mouth structure (for example, repairing the jaw after oral cancer or trauma) and restore it close to its natural appearance.
7. Are Prosthodontic Services Budget-Friendly?
At PDM at PHMC on Cedar, we lower the barriers to care, both financial and otherwise, to improve the health and well-being of our community. In 2021 alone, PDM patients who needed help affording dental care received services valued at more than $4 million. We also offer payment plans and work with insurance providers. If you are looking for affordable prosthodontist care such as low-cost dentures or dental implants in Philadelphia, you can relax knowing you’ll find what you need at PDM at PHMC on Cedar.
Ready To Restore Your Smile at PDM at PHMC on Cedar?
It’s easy. Just call 855-887-9229 or complete an online form today to schedule an appointment, and we’ll take it from there. We look forward to helping restore your smile’s health and appearance to what it should be—with the care and treatment you deserve.
