Understanding Prosthodontics

Dental Specialty Education

Understanding Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics is the dental specialty focused on restoring and replacing teeth and on complex rehabilitation of oral function and appearance.

What a prosthodontist is

A prosthodontist is a dentist who completes additional accredited specialty training after dental school. General dentists also provide many restorative treatments such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and implant restorations.

When specialty input may help

Complex full-mouth rehabilitation, difficult esthetic or functional problems, unusual tooth-loss patterns, or treatment involving multiple specialties can be reasons to seek prosthodontic consultation.

Willowdale role

This page is educational and does not represent Dr. Ryan Austin as a prosthodontist. Willowdale can discuss restorative needs and coordinate specialty referral when indicated.


Individual care matters: Treatment recommendations depend on an examination, health history, diagnosis, and individual needs. Call the office to discuss whether evaluation, treatment, or referral is appropriate.

Have a question about this topic?

Call Willowdale Family Dentistry or request an appointment to discuss your concern.