Prosthodontics

What is prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is the dental specialty concerned with restoring damaged teeth and replacing missing ones — so that you can chew comfortably, speak clearly and smile with confidence. It combines careful diagnosis with planning of the bite, the gums and the appearance of the teeth as a whole.

Prosthodontic care at Beyond Smiles is led by Dr Hetal Turakhia, a gold medallist in Prosthodontics with a clinical focus on diagnosis and treatment planning.

Who may benefit

• Teeth that are broken, heavily filled or weakened after root canal treatment
• One or more missing teeth
• Worn teeth, or a bite that feels uneven or uncomfortable
• Loose, uncomfortable or old dentures, crowns or bridges
• Older adults who want comfortable, practical solutions for eating and speaking

Treatment options

• Crowns and onlays – to protect and rebuild damaged teeth.
• Bridges – to replace missing teeth using neighbouring teeth or implants for support.
• Dentures – full or partial, removable replacements for missing teeth.
• Implant-supported restorations – crowns, bridges or dentures attached to dental implants.
• Full-mouth rehabilitation – a coordinated plan when many teeth need restoring.

The right choice depends on clinical findings, the condition of the remaining teeth, your general health and your priorities. Your dentist will explain the benefits, limitations, costs and alternatives of each option.

Assessment and planning

• Discussion of your concerns, medical history and goals
• Examination of teeth, gums, bite and jaw joints
• X-rays and, where needed, scans, photographs and study models
• Treatment of gum disease or decay before restorative work
• A written plan with stages and costs

Limitations and maintenance

Restorations can wear, chip, loosen or develop decay at the margins over time and may need repair or replacement. Dentures may need relining as the gums change. Regular check-ups, good home care and a night guard where grinding is a factor all help restorations last.