Prosthodontics/Reconstructive Dentistry

What is a Prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a dentist specializing in treating complex dental issues, including restoring damaged or missing teeth with dental prosthetics. They receive additional training beyond dental school in creating and placing dental implants, bridges, crowns, and dentures. Prosthodontists also provide cosmetic dental solutions to enhance patient smiles.

What is the Difference Between a Prosthodontist and a Dentist?

A dentist focuses on preserving your oral health through preventive care. Dentists also treat damaged or diseased teeth to maintain healthy teeth. A prosthodontist provides dental reconstruction and cosmetic treatments to restore health, function, and an attractive smile.  

Prosthodontists receive additional training after dental school from ADA-accredited institutions. This additional training deepens their knowledge of and skill with dental prosthetics and their placement. Prosthodontists typically handle more complex dental issues involving the teeth and gums, including jaw surgery, dentures, and dental implants.

Dr. Eric completed a two-year prosthodontics program, following it with a year-long fellowship in dental implant placement. He is a member of the American College of Prosthodontics, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Academy of Osseointegration.

Problem: Severely Worn Teeth
Solution: Porcelain Fused to Zirconia Crowns

See more before and after pictures of our Washington DC Prosthodontics and Reconstructive Dentistry patients

When Should I See a Prosthodontist?

Because prosthodontists have special training, they have a unique understanding of teeth, gum, and facial structure. If you are looking for cosmetic treatment that impacts your oral health or need your teeth replaced or restored with a prosthetic, our prosthodontist, Dr. Eric, provides the highest level of care with an eye for aesthetics and comfort.

If you have any of the following dental problems, a prosthodontist can help:

• Missing teeth
• Teeth damaged beyond repair
• TMJ disorders
• Traumatic facial injuries involving the teeth and gums
• Sleep disorders
• Oral cancer reconstruction
• Severely worn teeth

We recommend seeing a prosthodontist for any of the following treatments:

• Dentures
• Dental Crowns
• Bridges
• Dental Implants
• Jaw Surgery
• Gum Lifts
• Smile Makeovers
• Cosmetic Dentistry

Are All Cosmetic Dentists Prosthodontists?

No. Cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized dental specialty, although cosmetic dentists usually have some additional training in specific procedures. Prosthodontists have more in-depth training in the dynamics of dental function, aesthetics, and function.

Why Do I Need to Replace Missing Teeth?

Your smile is the first thing people notice about you. Missing teeth can sap your self-confidence and affect how others respond to you. However, losing one or more teeth can also lead to various health problems, including shifting teeth, problems with your bite, and spreading an infection to other teeth and your jaw. If your teeth are missing for a long period, the jawbone begins to resorb or deteriorate. This resorption leads to losing more teeth and a sunken facial appearance.

Replacing missing teeth with prosthodontics is the best way to preserve your oral health, retain the ability to eat comfortably, and maintain an inviting smile.

For an appointment with our prosthodontist, Dr. Eric, contact our office at Markowitz Dental of Washington DC Office Phone Number 202-833-8240.