Editing Prosthodontics

{{Infobox medical specialty
| name           = Prosthodontics
| image          = 
| caption        = A fixed partial denture (bridge) used to restore function and esthetics.
| focus          = Restoration and replacement of teeth and oral/maxillofacial structures.
| related_fields = [[Implantology]], [[Cosmetic Dentistry]], [[Digital Dentistry]]
}}

==Definition==
'''Prosthodontics''' (also known as '''Dental Prosthetics''' or '''Prosthetic Dentistry''') is the dental specialty pertaining to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of the 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.

A '''Prosthodontist''' is often considered the "architect" of a dental treatment plan, frequently coordinating with [[Periodontology|Periodontists]], [[Endodontics|Endodontists]], and [[Oral Surgery|Oral Surgeons]].

==Scope of Practice==
Prosthodontics is traditionally divided into four main sub-categories:

===1. Fixed Prosthodontics===
Restorations that are permanently attached to the teeth or implants and cannot be removed by the patient.
* '''[[Dental Crown]]''': A "cap" that covers a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength.
* '''[[Dental Bridge]]''' (Fixed Partial Denture): Replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the adjacent natural teeth (abutments).
* '''[[Veneer]]''': A thin layer of porcelain or composite bonded to the facial surface of teeth for esthetic improvement.

===2. Removable Prosthodontics===
Prostheses that the patient can remove for cleaning and while sleeping.
* '''Complete Dentures''': Used when all teeth in an arch are missing.
* '''Removable Partial Dentures (RPD)''': Used when some natural teeth remain; these utilize clasps to stay in place.

===3. Implant Prosthodontics===
The restoration of '''[[Dental implants]]'''. This includes single crowns, implant-supported bridges, or "All-on-X" fixed hybrid proteheses where a full arch of teeth is supported by four to six implants.

===4. Maxillofacial Prosthetics===
A sub-specialty involved in treating patients with acquired or congenital defects of the head and neck (e.g., due to cancer surgery or trauma). This involves creating artificial eyes, ears, noses, or obturators to close defects in the [[palatine process|palate]].

==Materials in Prosthodontics==
Modern prosthodontics relies on a variety of high-tech materials:
* '''[[Zirconia]]''': Highly durable, tooth-colored ceramic used for crowns and bridges.
* '''Lithium Disilicate''' (e.g., e.max): Known for superior esthetics and translucency.
* '''[[Titanium]]''': The standard material for dental implant bodies due to its biocompatibility.
* '''[[Acrylic Resin]]''': The primary material for denture bases and teeth.

==The Digital Workflow==
The field has moved toward '''[[Digital Dentistry]]''', utilizing:
* '''Intraoral Scanners''': Replacing traditional "goopy" impressions with 3D digital models.
* '''[[CAD/CAM]]''': Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing, allowing for the milling of crowns in-office or in a lab.
* '''3D Printing''': Used for creating surgical guides, models, and temporary prostheses.

==Professional Education==
To become a Board-Certified Prosthodontist:
# Earn a [[DDS]] or [[DMD]] degree.
# Complete a 36-month CODA-accredited residency.
# Achieve Diplomate status through the '''[[American Board of Prosthodontics]]''' (ABP).

==See Also==
* [[Dental implant]]
* [[Occlusion (dentistry)]]
* [[Digital Dentistry]]
* [[Biocompatibility]]

[[Category:Dental Specialties]]
[[Category:Prosthodontics]]