What Is the Difference Between a Prosthodontist and a Dentist in Durham, NC?
Updated: Sep 24, 2025
Quick Answer: A prosthodontist is a dental specialist with 3 additional years of training beyond dental school, focusing on tooth replacement, dental implants, dentures, and complex restorations. While general dentists provide preventative care like cleanings and fillings, prosthodontists specialize in restoring and replacing missing teeth. In Durham, NC, implant care at Local Start Dental is led by a board-certified prosthodontist, and an application-based sliding scale is available for qualifying patients.
When it comes to dental care in Durham and the Triangle area, understanding the different types of dental professionals can help you make informed decisions about your oral health. Two of the most important are general dentists and prosthodontists. If you need to restore your smile or replace missing teeth, you might wonder: what is the difference between a prosthodontist and a dentist?
This comprehensive guide will break down the key differences between these two professions, help you understand when you need each specialist, and explain how Local Start Dental can help.
Understanding the Dental Professional Hierarchy
Before diving into specific differences, it's helpful to understand how dental specialties work in the Triangle area and beyond.
General Dentists: Your First Line of Dental Care
A general dentist is a healthcare professional who specializes in overall oral health, including teeth, gums, and jawbone. They serve as your primary dental care provider for routine and preventative services. General dentists in Durham provide various essential services, including:
Preventative Care: Regular cleanings, examinations, fluoride treatments
Basic Restorative Work: Fillings, simple crowns, basic extractions
Diagnostic Services: X-rays, oral cancer screenings, cavity detection
Minor Procedures: Root canals, tooth extractions, simple repairs
Cosmetic Dentistry: Teeth whitening, bonding, simple veneers
General dentists complete a four-year Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree and are qualified to handle most common dental issues that Durham patients encounter.
Prosthodontists: Advanced Specialists in Tooth Replacement
On the other hand, a prosthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses specifically on the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of oral function, comfort, appearance, and health. These professionals undergo extensive additional training to become experts in restoring and replacing teeth.
Prosthodontists can enhance the quality of life for Durham patients with missing teeth or damaged oral and maxillofacial tissues. This specialized care includes restoring natural teeth and replacing missing teeth with:
Dentures (partial and complete)
Complex crowns and veneers
Full mouth reconstructions
Implant-supported prosthetics
Prosthodontist vs. Dentist: Key Differences Explained
1. Education and Training Requirements
General Dentist Training:
4 years of undergraduate education
4 years of dental school (DDS or DMD degree)
Optional: 1-year general practice residency
Total: 8-9 years of higher education
Prosthodontist Training:
4 years of undergraduate education
4 years of dental school (DDS or DMD degree)
3 additional years of prosthodontic specialty training
Focus on advanced restorative and reconstructive procedures
Extensive training in dental implants, complex prosthetics, and full mouth rehabilitation
Total: 11 years of higher education
One of the main differences between a prosthodontist and a dentist is their level of specialized training and education. While both professions require a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, prosthodontists undergo an additional three-year specialty training program focusing exclusively on prosthodontics.
During this intensive training, prosthodontists learn advanced skills such as:
Surgical placement and restoration of dental implants
Complex restorative procedures including full mouth rehabilitation with combinations of crowns, bridges, and dentures
Advanced cosmetic dentistry techniques
Jaw alignment and bite correction
Treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
Management of congenital or acquired oral defects
Collaboration with other specialists for comprehensive care
This extensive education prepares prosthodontists to handle complex dental restoration cases.
2. Scope of Practice and Procedures
What General Dentists Do: General dentists in Durham are skilled in preventative and general dentistry, focusing on maintaining overall oral health:
Routine dental cleanings and examinations
Cavity detection and fillings
Simple tooth extractions
Basic root canal therapy
Single crown placements
Treatment of gum disease (basic periodontal care)
Teeth whitening and simple cosmetic procedures
Oral health education and preventative counseling
What Prosthodontists Specialize In: Prosthodontists focus on complex procedures designed to restore oral function, comfort, appearance, and health:
Advanced Implant Dentistry: Surgical placement of single and multiple implants, All-on-4 implants, full arch reconstructions
Complex Restorations: Full mouth rehabilitation combining multiple treatment modalities
Removable Prosthetics: Custom dentures, partial dentures, implant-supported dentures
Fixed Prosthetics: Bridges, crowns, veneers for extensive rehabilitation
Jaw Problems: Complex bite issues, jaw alignment disorders, TMJ treatment
Facial Pain Management: Treatment of pain related to oral and maxillofacial issues
Congenital Defects: Rehabilitation of patients born with oral abnormalities
Trauma Reconstruction: Restoration after facial injuries or accidents
Cancer Reconstruction: Prosthetic rehabilitation after oral cancer treatment
3. Complexity of Cases Treated
General Dentist Case Complexity:
Routine dental problems
Single tooth issues
Straightforward restorations
Preventative care
Common dental emergencies
Prosthodontist Case Complexity:
Multiple missing teeth
Severe tooth wear or damage
Failed previous dental work requiring complex redo
Full mouth reconstruction needs
Complex implant cases requiring bone grafting
Difficult aesthetic challenges
Coordination of care with multiple specialists
For Durham patients, this means that while your general dentist handles routine care excellently, complex cases involving multiple missing teeth or failed restorations are better suited to a prosthodontist's expertise.
When to See a General Dentist vs. a Prosthodontist in Durham
See a General Dentist For:
Routine Preventative Care
Biannual cleanings and check-ups
Cavity prevention and early detection
Oral cancer screenings
Fluoride treatments and sealants
Common Dental Problems
Simple cavities requiring fillings
Minor toothaches
Basic tooth extractions (simple, non-surgical)
Routine root canals
Minor gum disease treatment
Simple Restorative Needs
Single tooth crown (straightforward case)
Basic tooth replacement with a simple bridge
Emergency dental care for chips or cracks
For most Durham residents, a general dentist serves as the primary dental care provider and first point of contact for oral health concerns.
See a Prosthodontist For:
Missing Teeth Replacement If you have one or more missing teeth and want long-term replacement options, a prosthodontist can provide:
Single tooth dental implants
Multiple implants for several missing teeth
Implant-supported dentures or bridges
Complete dentures (upper, lower, or both)
Snap-on dentures for improved stability
Complex Restorative Needs Durham patients with extensive dental damage or complex needs benefit from prosthodontic expertise:
Full mouth reconstruction after severe decay or trauma
Replacement of multiple failed crowns or bridges
Severe tooth wear requiring comprehensive rehabilitation
Cosmetically challenging cases requiring advanced techniques
Implant Dentistry Prosthodontists are specially trained in all aspects of implant dentistry:
Surgical implant placement
Bone grafting when needed
Sinus lift procedures
Complex multi-implant cases
Jaw and Bite Problems If you experience chronic facial pain, jaw clicking, or bite alignment issues:
TMJ disorder treatment
Bite adjustment and equilibration
Jaw alignment correction
Facial pain management
Congenital or Acquired Defects Prosthodontists help Durham patients with:
Cleft palate rehabilitation
Birth defects affecting oral structures
Trauma reconstruction
Post-cancer reconstruction
Discover comprehensive tooth replacement procedures prosthodontists perform in our guide.
The Prosthodontic Advantage at Local Start Dental
Why Choose a Prosthodontist in Durham?
Specialized Training and Expertise Board-certified prosthodontists have completed advanced specialty training in restorative and reconstructive dentistry. This training supports:
Complex restorative cases
Long-term treatment planning
Advanced problem-solving capabilities
Comprehensive Treatment Planning Prosthodontists excel at developing complete treatment plans that address all aspects of oral rehabilitation. For Durham patients with multiple dental issues, this holistic approach helps address problems systematically.
Aesthetic Excellence While function is paramount, prosthodontists are also trained in dental aesthetics. They understand facial proportions, smile design, and how to create restorations that look natural, which matters for anyone wanting a confident smile.
Local Start Dental's Prosthodontic Services
At Local Start Dental in Durham, implant care is led by a board-certified prosthodontist. If you're unsure whether you need a general dentist or a prosthodontist, we'd be happy to help you determine the best course of action for your situation.
Our Prosthodontic Services Include:
Dental Implant Services
Single tooth implant placement and restoration
Multiple implant procedures
Full arch implant reconstruction (All-on-4)
Denture Services
Complete dentures (conventional and immediate)
Partial dentures
Implant-supported overdentures
Snap-on dentures
Denture relines and repairs
Fixed Restorations
Crowns (single and multiple)
Bridges (traditional and implant-supported)
Veneers for smile enhancement
Onlays and inlays
Full Mouth Reconstruction
Comprehensive rehabilitation for extensive dental damage
Combination treatments (implants, crowns, bridges, dentures)
Bite reconstruction and TMJ treatment
Aesthetic smile makeovers
Specialized Services
Tooth extraction (simple and surgical)
Treatment of failed dental work
Revision of previous unsatisfactory restorations
The Local Start Dental Difference: Affordable Prosthodontic Care in Durham
Nonprofit Mission, Accessible Care
As Durham's nonprofit dental clinic, Local Start Dental works to make prosthodontic care more affordable. Our mission is to help Triangle area residents access quality restorative dental care.
Financial Accessibility:
Sliding Scale Fees: Reduced costs based on household income qualification
CareCredit: Financing options available for treatment costs
Proceed Finance: Alternative financing for approved applicants
NC Medicaid: Accepted where dental coverage applies
Insurance Assistance: While we do not work with private dental insurance directly such as Humana, BCBS, or Aetna, we can provide necessary records for claim submission.
Care at Our Durham Location
Prosthodontic care at Local Start Dental is provided at our Jackson Street location in Durham. This approach offers:
Seamless communication and continuity of care
Convenient scheduling for complex treatments
Comprehensive records in one location
Easier coordination for multi-phase treatments
Common Prosthodontic Procedures Explained
Dental Implant Placement and Restoration
Prosthodontists are trained to handle every aspect of implant dentistry. Implant treatment generally includes:
Surgical placement of the titanium implant into the jawbone
Bone grafting, if bone density is insufficient
Design and fabrication of the custom crown, bridge, or denture
Attention to aesthetics and function
At Local Start Dental, implant care is led by a board-certified prosthodontist.
Full Mouth Reconstruction
For patients with extensive dental damage, full mouth reconstruction represents the pinnacle of prosthodontic expertise. This comprehensive treatment may involve:
Extraction of hopeless teeth
Bone grafting to prepare for implants
Strategic implant placement
Temporary teeth during healing
Final restoration with crowns, bridges, or implant-supported dentures
Durham patients benefit from prosthodontists' ability to visualize the end result and work backward to create a treatment plan that achieves optimal function and aesthetics.
Implant-Supported Dentures
One of prosthodontics' greatest innovations is implant-supported dentures, which combine the stability of implants with the affordability of dentures. Prosthodontists excel at:
Determining optimal implant number and position
Selecting appropriate attachment systems
Fabricating dentures with superior fit and function
Coordinating surgical and prosthetic phases
This specialized knowledge helps prosthodontists create dentures designed to stay in place, support chewing function, and look natural.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prosthodontists vs. Dentists
What makes a prosthodontist different from a regular dentist?
A prosthodontist is a dental specialist with 3 additional years of advanced training beyond dental school, focusing exclusively on restoring and replacing teeth. While general dentists provide excellent preventative and basic restorative care, prosthodontists specialize in complex cases involving missing teeth, dental implants, full mouth reconstruction, and advanced cosmetic restorations.
Do I need a referral to see a prosthodontist in Durham?
No referral is necessary to see a prosthodontist at Local Start Dental. Durham patients can schedule directly by calling 919.569.5533. However, some insurance plans may require referrals for specialist coverage, so check with your insurance provider.
How much does it cost to see a prosthodontist?
Prosthodontic fees vary depending on treatment complexity, income qualification, and participation in continuing education courses at Local Start Dental. Our sliding scale program can reduce costs for qualifying patients. Current fees are on our fees page.
Can a general dentist do what a prosthodontist does?
General dentists can perform some restorative procedures, but prosthodontists have specialized training for complex cases. Think of it like the difference between a family doctor and a cardiac surgeon: both are medical professionals, but specialized cases call for specialized training. For Durham patients with multiple missing teeth, failed previous dental work, or complex reconstruction needs, a prosthodontist's advanced training can be especially helpful.
When should I see a prosthodontist instead of a dentist?
See a prosthodontist when you have:
Multiple missing teeth needing replacement
Interest in dental implants
Failed crowns, bridges, or dentures requiring replacement
Severe tooth wear or damage
Complex bite problems or jaw pain
Need for full mouth reconstruction
Cosmetically challenging cases
For routine cleanings, simple fillings, and preventative care, your general dentist is the appropriate choice.
Are prosthodontists more expensive than dentists?
Specialized care typically costs more than general dentistry, but Local Start Dental's nonprofit model and sliding scale program help make prosthodontic services more accessible for qualifying patients.
How do I find the best prosthodontist in Durham, NC?
Look for a board-certified prosthodontist with experience, positive patient reviews, and transparent pricing. At Local Start Dental, implant care is led by a board-certified prosthodontist, and an application-based sliding scale is available for qualifying patients.
What is the success rate for prosthodontic treatments?
Success depends on each patient's oral health, medical history, and care after treatment. Your dentist will talk you through what to expect in your case.
Can prosthodontists perform tooth extractions?
Yes, prosthodontists are trained to perform both simple and surgical tooth extractions. At Local Start Dental, extractions can be part of a treatment plan that includes tooth replacement.
Take the Next Step with Local Start Dental
Whether you need tooth replacement, dental implants, dentures, or complex restorative work, choosing the right dental professional matters. At Local Start Dental, implant care is led by a board-certified prosthodontist.
Why Durham Patients Choose Local Start Dental:
Prosthodontic Expertise Implant care at Local Start Dental is led by a board-certified prosthodontist, a specialist with advanced training in tooth replacement and restoration.
Comprehensive Services From tooth extraction to final restoration, we provide prosthodontic care at our Jackson Street location.
Affordable Care Our nonprofit mission and sliding scale program make specialized prosthodontic care accessible to more Durham patients. We believe financial barriers shouldn't prevent anyone from receiving the dental care they need.
Serving the Triangle While located in Durham, we welcome patients from Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Cary, and throughout the Triangle area. Our central location makes specialized care convenient for all Triangle residents.
Schedule Your Prosthodontic Consultation Today
If you're dealing with missing teeth, failed dental work, or complex restorative needs, Local Start Dental can help. Your dentist will evaluate your specific situation and talk with you about a personalized treatment plan.
Ready to experience the prosthodontic difference?
Call Local Start Dental today at 919.569.5533 or contact us online for a consultation. Learn how restorative treatment at Local Start Dental can help.
If you are looking for a prosthodontist in Durham, NC, consider Local Start Dental. We offer prosthodontic services, including dental implants, dentures, and partial dentures. Contact us today at 919.569.5533 or online for a consultation.
Local Start Dental - Your Partner in Oral Health Excellence Board-Certified Prosthodontic Care for Durham and the Triangle Area 919.569.5533 | 370 Jackson Street, Durham, NC 27701
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Every patient's situation is unique, and treatment recommendations may vary based on individual circumstances, medical history, and oral health conditions.
Only a qualified dental professional can determine the most appropriate treatment option for you after a thorough examination and consultation.
The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any dental condition. Always seek the advice of qualified healthcare providers, including prosthodontists and general dentists, regarding any questions you may have about dental care.
Local Start Dental's fee schedules, financing options, and sliding scale programs are subject to change and have qualification requirements. Contact our office directly for current pricing and eligibility information.
By reading this article, you acknowledge that Local Start Dental is not liable for any decisions made based on the information provided herein. Individual results may vary, and there are risks associated with any dental procedure.
Only a qualified dental professional can determine appropriate treatment after a thorough examination and consultation.
The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any dental condition. Always seek the advice of qualified healthcare providers regarding any questions you may have about oral health treatments.
Local Start Dental's fee schedules, financing options, and sliding scale programs are subject to change and qualification requirements. Contact our office directly for current eligibility information.
Individual results may vary, and there are risks associated with any surgical procedure.
