Because a prosthodontist is not the same as a general dentist, many of our patients don’t know what to expect during their first visit to a prosthodontist.
A prosthodontist specialises in the restoration and replacement of missing teeth.
Prosthodontics also includes oral surgery and maxillofacial treatment options. In essence, the difference between a prosthodontist and a regular dentist is the extent and depth of their training and expertise.
A prosthodontist will provide a more complex and comprehensive treatment plan. In addition, prosthodontists often work with patients who have unique needs, such as those who have suffered from tooth loss due to injury or disease.
1. What to bring with you to your first visit to a prosthodontist
If you have been referred by your general dentist, you will need to bring your referral form as well as any recent x-rays to your first visit to a prosthodontist. (However, it is important to note that a referral is not a compulsory requirement.) In addition, it is always a good idea to prepare a comprehensive list of any current medical conditions to ensure you don’t accidentally omit something when providing your medical history. Lastly, you will need to provide all the details of your dental insurance when you arrive for your first visit to a prosthodontist.
2. What will happen during your first visit to a prosthodontist
Your first dental appointment with a prosthodontist focuses on providing detailed information about your oral health and other medical conditions. A prosthodontist needs to take many factors into account in order to provide an accurate diagnosis and devise the best possible treatment plan for your specific case.
During your first visit to a prosthodontist, you will be asked questions about your oral health and general medical history. In addition, the prosthodontist will discuss your concerns, needs and desired results.
The prosthodontist will conduct a visual oral examination, and take digital photographs of your teeth and oral structures. X-rays and other diagnostic aids will be used when necessary, depending on your individual case.
All of this information is used to inform an accurate initial assessment. During your first visit to a prosthodontist, your diagnosis and treatment options will be explained to you. In most cases, a detailed treatment plan, timelines and cost estimate will be discussed during a follow-up appointment.
3. What are the prosthodontist’s responsibilities?
Prosthodontics is more than just cosmetic dentistry: it is also about restoring the function of your mouth and jaw. A prosthodontist is responsible for providing a tailored treatment plan that focuses on the restoration and replacement of missing teeth.
To do so, the prosthodontist will need to carry out a comprehensive oral examination before you start treatment. This is will include imaging, such as x-rays and photographs, as well as dental impressions.
Your prosthodontist is responsible for providing a tailored treatment plan to provide the best possible outcome. This includes updating you about progress and any required adjustments to your treatment plan, timelines and costs as your treatment progresses. In addition, the prosthodontist will explain what you need to do before, during, and after treatment to ensure the success of your treatment.
4. How often should you see a prosthodontist?
This will depend on your treatment plan. Some patients’ treatment plan require several stages, such as oral surgery followed by dental implants, for example.
After your first visit to a prosthodontist, you will receive your customised treatment plan. This will indicate the stages of your prosthodontic treatment. In addition, the expected timeline of these stages will be outlined in your treatment plan. This will provide you with an indication of how often you should see your prosthodontist. If necessary, your prosthodontist will indicate any adjustments to this timetable as your treatment proceeds.
5. Questions to ask your prosthodontist
It is important that you gather all the information you need during your first visit to a prosthodontist. This includes, but is not limited to, asking about:
- your concerns and any fears you might have
- what you can expect the final result to look like
- what your treatment plan will likely entail
- the expected length of the treatment
- the pros and cons of the different treatment options
- the various payment plans that are available
- your responsibilities before, during and after treatment to ensure the best possible outcome
- short-term and long-term considerations and expectations
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