While aesthetic dentists are general dentists who have attended cosmetic dentistry seminars and courses, prosthodontists are specialists recognized by the ADA who have obtained, after three additional years of university education, a graduate certificate in prosthodontics. A cosmetic dentist is a general dentist, with a difference. A cosmetic dentist will have received additional training. Learn how to achieve better cosmetic results for patients.
This continuous learning can often be completed in a few weeks or months. Cosmetic dentistry is not a specialty recognized by the American Dental Association. Prosthodontists are the only specialists recognized by the American Dental Association in aesthetic, reconstructive and implant dentistry. The most important difference between a prosthodontist and a cosmetic dentist is where they received their training.
Prosthodontists receive additional education beyond dental school to become experts in restoring teeth that have been damaged by injury or illness. A prosthodontist specializes in complex dental restoration when several lost or damaged teeth are replaced or cared for, and is one of 12 dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). Prosthodontists are at the forefront of new technologies and are considered pioneers in the field of cosmetic dentistry. There are approximately 3,500 practicing prosthodontists in the country, compared to 195,722 general dentists.
Today, with the help of a prosthodontist, you have many options to improve your quality of life with a better smile. In short, prosthodontists are highly specialized aesthetic dentists with professional training in restorative dental procedures. Another important difference between the two is that only prosthodontists have the experience needed to treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, while cosmetic dentists won't be able to help you with this problem. If you are considering dental treatment, you may be wondering if you should see a prosthodontist or cosmetic dentist.
While some procedures overlap, others are almost exclusively performed by a prosthodontist or cosmetic dentist. However, do you know when it's appropriate to seek treatment beyond your general dentist and seek out a prosthodontist? There are also many things to consider between a general dentist and a prosthodontist and know the difference. In addition to being trained in the above-mentioned dental treatments, prosthodontists are more educated in dental biomaterials, ceramics and an understanding of color and how it affects aesthetics.
