What a prosthodontist is
Prosthesis means a replacement or addition. In India the specialty is Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge, and the degree is an MDS taken after the BDS. It is one of the branches in our guide to the types of dentists.
What a prosthodontist treats
Prosthodontists plan and make crowns, bridges, partial and complete dentures, and the visible tooth part that attaches to a dental implant. They also manage worn or heavily damaged teeth and cases where the bite has to be rebuilt.
Many also place implants or work with a surgeon who does. If you are weighing options for a missing tooth, our comparison of a dental implant versus a bridge shows how the choices differ, and the page on dental implants gives an overview.
When a general dentist refers you to a prosthodontist
A general dentist makes single crowns, bridges and dentures routinely, and most patients need nothing more. Referral is typical when many teeth are missing or worn, when a bite has to be rebuilt across both jaws, when a complete denture is difficult to make fit, or when implants and a full set of teeth are planned together. Our guide to full mouth rehabilitation describes the larger cases.
As with every specialty, referral is about matching the case to the training, not a judgement on your dentist.
How to check a prosthodontist's qualification
Ask for the degree, an MDS in Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge, and the State Dental Council registration number. Registration is public record. Placing crowns or implants does not by itself make a dentist a prosthodontist.
Common questions
Is a prosthodontist a dentist?
Yes. A prosthodontist is a dentist with a three-year MDS in Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge, taken after the BDS.
Do I need a prosthodontist for a crown or denture?
Not usually. General dentists make single crowns, bridges and dentures routinely. A prosthodontist is more often involved in complex or full-mouth cases.
Does a prosthodontist place dental implants?
Some do and some work with a surgeon who places the implant while they make the tooth on top. Implants are also placed by other dentists with the right training, so ask who will do which step.
How do I check whether a dentist is a prosthodontist?
Ask for the MDS in Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge and the State Dental Council registration number. Registration is a matter of public record.
About this page
This page is general information, not a diagnosis or a quotation. Prices are prevailing Lucknow market ranges. Your own treatment and cost are determined after an examination. For questions about your own case, call +91 83036 12717.