Understanding the Expertise of a Prosthodontist
Hello, I'm Dr. Mariana Fernandez, prosthodontist here at Guiding Light Dental. You might be wondering what exactly a prosthodontist is and how to know if you or anyone else in your family might need one. A prosthodontist is a dentist specialized in restoring and replacing teeth. If you have lost one or more teeth, have worn teeth, or have suffered from an accident involving your mouth, we can help. We focus on bringing back your smile, your bite, and most importantly, your confidence.
After graduating as a general dentist, prosthodontists complete three years of additional specialized training. We use modern technology to restore teeth with crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, and many other treatments that look natural and truly work.
How do you know if prosthodontics is good for you? If you're missing teeth, feel pain while chewing, have jaw problems, or simply feel that your smile needs help, it is worth coming to us. We also help patients who have gone through oral cancer, surgeries, accidents, and older adults who need dentures.
How is a prosthodontist different from a general dentist?
General dentists handle routine dental care like cleanings, fillings, and basic treatments. As specialists, we focus on complex cases, large restorations, dental implants, and full mouth rehabilitation. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, general dentists can provide some aesthetic treatments after taking many courses and training. However, a prosthodontist has the best training to treat the most challenging cases both functionally and aesthetically. We don't just improve your smile; we rebuild it from the ground up if needed.
What kind of problems do we treat?
Broken or worn teeth, misaligned bites, missing teeth, congenital defects, or even the need for a completely new smile.
Is there any ideal age to see a prosthodontist?
No. We see young adults, patients with defects or malformations, and older adults who need dentures and implants. It's never too early or too late to improve your smile.
What can I expect when I go to Guiding Light Dental??
From the moment you walk into our clinic, you will feel right at home. Our team is warm, professional, and has years of experience. We'll start by discussing your concerns and goals, evaluating your oral health, and taking x-rays and impressions if needed. At the end of the consultation, you will receive a clear diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.
Will my prosthodontic procedure hurt?
Honestly, not as much as you might think. Most treatments are comfortable, and we use local anesthetic or sedation if needed. If there's any discomfort, we'll give you clear instructions and help you with medication to ensure a smooth recovery.
How long does a prosthodontic procedure take to heal?
That depends on the treatment. Some require no recovery time, while others like implants or full mouth rehabilitations may take several months.
Does insurance cover prosthodontic treatments?
Many treatments are covered, especially if they are medically necessary. If not, we offer financing options. We work with Care Credit, Cherry, and offer clear membership plans. This helps you pay for cleanings, checkups, and provides discounts on other treatments.
Do you want to book an appointment?
It's very easy. At Guiding Light Dental, your dental health is our priority. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call our team at (407) 898-9988, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!