AS DEFINED BY THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF PROSTHODONTISTS (ACP)

What is prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is a dental specialty recognized by the ADA National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards and is the area of dentistry that focuses on dental prosthetics. The ADA has defined prosthodontics as “the dental specialty pertaining to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of oral function, comfort, appearance, and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible substitutes.”

What is a prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a dentist who has completed dental school plus at least three additional years of advanced training and education in a CODA-accredited prosthodontic graduate program. They specialize in treating and handling dental and facial problems that involve restoring missing tooth and jaw structures. A prosthodontist is highly trained in cosmetics, dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, temporomandibular disorders (TMJ/TMD), and more.

See how this training applies to full-arch and All-on-X implant planning, including the bite, provisional and final teeth, hygiene, and long-term follow-up.

How is a prosthodontist different from other dentists and dental specialists?

The term “prostho” means replacement and “dontist” means dealing with teeth. Essentially, prosthodontists are THE recognized experts when anything needs to be replaced in your mouth. This can range from a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth and gums in the mouth. While many other dentists can do some of these treatments, prosthodontists are the specialists dedicated to this type of care.
Prosthodontists have advanced training in restoring and replacing teeth. Prosthodontists are considered the leaders of the dental treatment plan. They regularly lead teams of general dentists, specialists, and other health professionals to develop solutions for your dental needs.

Why choose a prosthodontist?

Choose a prosthodontist because of their advanced education and training, efficiency, and expertise with advanced technology. Prosthodontists are extensively trained in state-of-the-art techniques and procedures for treating complex dental conditions and restoring optimum function and esthetics. Rigorous training and experience give prosthodontists a special understanding of the dynamics of a smile and the preservation of a healthy mouth.

What is board certification?

A board-certified prosthodontist has successfully passed a rigorous examination process conducted by the American Board of Prosthodontics (ABP). He or she is subjected to re-certification every eight years to ensure that he or she is current in practices that affect the specialty. Very few prosthodontists ever manage to complete and pass all the examinations required to become board certified. Learn more about the ABP through their website. 

How do I know whether my prosthodontist is board certified?

The American Board of Prosthodontics maintains a Locate a Board Certified Prosthodontist search.

Education and Training

The process of becoming a board-certified prosthodontist involves completing:

  • A bachelor’s degree
  • Dental School
  • The National Board Dental Examinations to become a licensed Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD)
  • A three-year residency and education through an ADA-accredited (approved) prosthodontic graduate program
  • Passing the American Board of Prosthodontics certification exams

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