Dr. Kanika Bembey Won Best Oral Surgeon/Periodontist Award in San Diego North County for 2024 !

Periodontist Vs. Prosthodontist

Posted on 8/22/2022 by Dr. Bembey and Dr. Yokoyama

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in studying, preventing, and treating periodontal conditions such as gingivitis, periodontitis, loose teeth, bone loss around the teeth, and oral cancer. Many patients don't realize prosthodontists are dentists because they specialize in dental prostheses. Prosthodontists can design partial dentures and bridges for missing teeth. They can also create implants to replace them. However, these two professionals can be quite confusing. Luckily, here are some identifiable differences between a periodontist and a prosthodontist:

Area of Expertise

A periodontist treats gum disease and other issues related to the mouth. They often work as part of a team with other specialists like oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Likewise, prosthodontists specialize in restoring, replacing, or repairing teeth. They often work as part of a team with other specialists like oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Procedures Performed

A periodontist can do everything an ordinary dentist does, plus more advanced procedures such as root canal therapy, gum grafting, and surgical removal of impacted teeth. A prosthodontist typically does not perform extractions or fillings but focuses on replacing missing teeth with dental implants or bridges.

Education Requirements

Both professions require at least four years of college education, followed by dental school, where they receive an additional four years of education. After graduation from dental school, they must pass licensing exams before practicing as a licensed member of their respective profession.

When to See a Prosthodontist

If you have damaged your teeth from an accident or other trauma, it may be time to see a prosthodontist. This can include damage from car accidents and sports injuries. You may also need to see a prosthodontist if you are missing several teeth due to disease or decay. A prosthodontist can create dentures or dental implants that will replace missing teeth and improve your smile.

When to See a Periodontist

Periodontists treat gum disease and perform tooth extractions when necessary. They can also diagnose oral cancer and perform bone replacement procedures such as root canals on teeth with no crowns (crowns are caps covering natural teeth). They can also place dental implants into the jawbone for missing teeth.

This Doctor is a true healer!

I had a wonderful opportunity to see Dr. Bembey! She really knows her stuff! I felt like she had my best interests in mind and she took her time and listened with an open mind and an open heart. I have some really tough dental issues, and she completely understood everything that I was going through and was able to guide me in the right direction. So great full of for her kindness and compassion.
-Shanon E., June 2023

Read More Reviews

Listen to Our Patient Stories

Encinitas Periodontics & Dental Implants
Dr. Bembey and Dr. Yokoyama
477 North El Camino Real #C-306
Encinitas, CA 92024

Phone: 760-632-9055
Fax: 760-943-0500

Hours:
Monday: 8am - 5pm
Tuesday: 8am - 5pm
Wednesday: 8am - 5pm
Thursday: 8am - 5pm
Friday: Call hours 8am - 12pm*
*Treatment by appointment only

Request an Appointment

Patient Paperwork

Read Our Reviews

Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce: 2022 Member badge

About | Encinitas Periodontics & Dental Implants
We here at Encinitas Periodontics & Dental Implants specialize in advanced techniques and utilize cutting-edge technology to provide optimal periodontal treatments.
Encinitas Periodontics & Dental Implants, 477 North El Camino Real #C-306, Encinitas, CA 92024 | 760-632-9055 | encinitasperiodontist.com | 7/24/2024 | Related Terms: Periodontist Encinitas CA |