Prosthodontics is a speciality dealing with reconstructive dentistry. A prosthodontist is a specialist who is skilled in the replacement of missing teeth (and associated tissues) and the restoration of natural teeth. To become a board-registered specialist prosthodontist in Australia, after graduating as a qualified dentist, they must then undertake further full time training in a University master's degree programme. The programme takes a minimum of three years and involves further study in all facets of dentistry. The Australian training programmes provide for in depth training in the areas of: This level of training gives a prosthodontist a unique ability to liaise closely with the ceramic technician resulting in the production of biologically compatible dental restorations, which remain serviceable in the long term. The training also includes liaison with the other specialist disciplines of dentistry for the purposes of delivering complex multi-disciplinary treatment. As the specialist delivering the final restoration the prosthodontist is the co-ordinator of such treatment plans. As a result a specialist prosthodontist is a dental expert trained to take a comprehensive approach and capable of co-ordinating and delivering complex treatment plans aimed at rehabilitating the dentition to a state of maintainable health. |
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