Prosthodontist

While most dentists are capable of providing restorative treatments, our ADA-accredited prosthodontists specialize​ in replacing​ ​missing​ ​teeth and repairing widespread damage,​ ​with a particular focus on the aesthetics of the smile.​ They are more than just cosmetic dentists; these specialists undergo extensive additional training above and beyond that of a general dentist to repair your smile in a way that is comfortable and ergonomically correct while appearing totally natural.

A dentist specializing in prosthodontics is also especially adept at performing comprehensive treatments, including smile makeovers and full mouth rehabilitation, as well as handling complex cases involving dental implants. ​James​ ​M. Stein, DMD, ​uses state-of-the-art​ ​techniques​ ​and advanced​ ​dental​ ​technology​ ​to​ ​deliver​ ​high-quality​ ​restorations to patients in the greater ​Boston, MA, area. Over the past 30 years, Dr. Stein has refined his approach and developed the technical expertise necessary to ensure excellent results. He understands that dental emergencies can happen at any time of the day, so he gladly offers emergency dental services.

Prosthodontics is one of 10 dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. It is a branch of dentistry that focuses on restoring damaged teeth and replacing missing teeth with prosthetic teeth, more commonly called restorations. To be recognized as a prosthodontist, a dentist must undergo at least three additional years of rigorous training beyond that of a general dentist. Prosthodontists are specially qualified to design and manufacture high-quality restorations such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. To maintain their status, these dentists must take continuing education courses to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.

In addition to replacing missing teeth, prosthodontists can also repair severely damaged teeth. They can address dental erosion and large cavities in a way that improves the overall appearance of the smile. By placing custom dentures and other restorations, prosthodontists can often help you resolve or avoid conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), which can arise because of an imbalanced bite or missing teeth.

To put it simply, prosthodontists can perform the most advanced tooth replacement solutions using cutting-edge technology, while a general dentist may not necessarily have these capabilities. You can be certain that a general dentist does not have the same degree of focus or training in this very specific area of dentistry. 

Meanwhile, a specialist can also perform surgical procedures as part of their efforts to restore smiles compromised due to issues such as a cleft palate, cancer, or TMD. For example, if the jawbone has become compromised and a patient is also missing teeth, a prosthodontist can provide both bone grafting and dental implant placement. Instances like these involve needs that are complex and require an advanced solution, and you can expect better results by trusting your care to a specialist. As a leading prosthodontist in Boston, MA, Dr. James M. Stein can restore your smile with precision and expertise.