What Is the Difference Between a Prosthodontist and a Dentist in Durham, NC?
- Local Start Dental
- Jun 5, 2023
- 12 min read
Updated: Sep 24
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, Local Start Dental offers board-certified prosthodontic services with sliding scale fees for complex cases including full mouth reconstruction and implant placement.
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 why Local Start Dental's prosthodontic expertise makes us Durham's premier choice for complex restorative dentistry.
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 at Local Start Dental's affiliated programs, 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 makes prosthodontists uniquely qualified to handle Durham's most 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 permanent, high-quality replacement options, a Durham prosthodontist at Local Start Dental 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?
Superior Training and Expertise Board-certified prosthodontists like those at Local Start Dental have completed the most rigorous training in restorative and reconstructive dentistry. This translates to:
Better outcomes for complex cases
Higher success rates for implant procedures (95-98%)
More predictable long-term results
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 ensures all problems are addressed systematically and efficiently.
Latest Technology and Techniques Prosthodontists stay current with the latest advances in dental technology:
3D imaging and computer-guided implant placement
CAD/CAM technology for precise restorations
Advanced materials for superior aesthetics and durability
Minimally invasive surgical techniques
Aesthetic Excellence While function is paramount, prosthodontists are also experts in dental aesthetics. They understand facial proportions, smile design, and how to create restorations that look completely natural—crucial for Durham professionals and anyone wanting a confident smile.
Local Start Dental's Prosthodontic Services
At Local Start Dental in Durham, we offer comprehensive prosthodontic services delivered by experienced, highly-trained board-certified prosthodontists specializing in restoring smiles. 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 to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you want.
Our Prosthodontic Expertise Includes:
Dental Implant Services
Single tooth implant placement and restoration
Multiple implant procedures
Full arch implant reconstruction (All-on-4)
Computer-guided implant surgery
Bone grafting and sinus lift procedures
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)
Bone grafting for implant preparation
Treatment of failed dental work
Revision of previous unsatisfactory restorations
The Local Start Dental Difference: Affordable Prosthodontic Care in Durham
Nonprofit Mission, Premium Care
As Durham's nonprofit dental clinic, Local Start Dental is uniquely positioned to provide specialized prosthodontic services at significantly reduced costs. Our mission isn't profit—it's ensuring Triangle area residents have access to the highest quality restorative dental care regardless of their ability to pay.
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 for tooth extractions and some preliminary procedures
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. In combination with our sliding scale, this can result in maximized savings for our patients.
Student Training Program: A Win-Win Model
Local Start Dental's partnership with dental schools creates a unique benefit for Durham patients. You receive care from highly motivated dental students under the direct supervision of experienced, board-certified prosthodontists.
Advantages for Patients:
Significantly reduced treatment costs
Extra time and attention to detail
Latest techniques and current best practices
Thorough treatment under expert supervision
Premium care at accessible prices
Quality Assurance: Every procedure is carefully supervised and reviewed by our experienced prosthodontists, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care while benefiting from reduced fees.
Comprehensive Care Under One Durham Roof
From initial consultation through final restoration, all prosthodontic services are provided at our convenient Jackson Street location in Durham. This integrated approach offers:
No referrals to multiple specialists needed
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 uniquely qualified to handle every aspect of implant dentistry. At Local Start Dental, our prosthodontists can:
Surgically place the titanium implant into your jawbone
Perform necessary bone grafting if bone density is insufficient
Design and fabricate the custom crown, bridge, or denture
Ensure optimal aesthetics and function
This comprehensive approach means Durham patients receive coordinated care from a single specialist who oversees the entire process.
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 ensures Durham patients receive dentures that stay firmly in place, restore proper chewing function, and look completely 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 significantly reduces costs for qualifying Durham families.
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 require specialized expertise. For Durham patients with multiple missing teeth, failed previous dental work, or complex reconstruction needs, a prosthodontist's advanced training significantly improves outcomes.
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 make prosthodontic services accessible to Durham families. Additionally, prosthodontists' expertise often leads to better long-term outcomes, potentially saving money by avoiding failed treatments and repeated procedures.
How do I find the best prosthodontist in Durham, NC?
Look for board-certified prosthodontists with extensive experience, positive patient reviews, and transparent pricing. Local Start Dental offers experienced prosthodontists, modern technology, comprehensive services, and affordable care through our sliding scale program—making us Durham's premier choice for complex restorative dentistry.
What is the success rate for prosthodontic treatments?
Prosthodontists achieve excellent success rates due to their specialized training:
Dental implants: 95-98% success rate
Full mouth reconstructions: High patient satisfaction
Complex restorations: Superior longevity compared to general dentistry At Local Start Dental, our prosthodontists have successfully completed thousands of procedures with excellent outcomes.
Can prosthodontists perform tooth extractions?
Yes, prosthodontists are trained to perform both simple and surgical tooth extractions. At Local Start Dental, our prosthodontists can extract teeth that are beyond saving and immediately develop a replacement plan, ensuring comprehensive care from a single provider.
Take the Next Step with Durham's Premier Prosthodontists
Whether you need tooth replacement, dental implants, dentures, or complex restorative work, choosing the right dental professional makes all the difference in your outcome. At Local Start Dental, our highly trained and experienced board-certified prosthodontists provide specialized care that general dentists cannot match.
Why Durham Patients Choose Local Start Dental:
Prosthodontic Expertise Our team includes board-certified prosthodontists—specialists with the most advanced training in tooth replacement and restoration. This expertise translates to superior outcomes for Durham's most complex dental cases.
Comprehensive Services From tooth extraction to final restoration, we provide all prosthodontic services at our Jackson Street location. No referrals to multiple specialists—everything you need under one roof.
Affordable Excellence Our nonprofit mission and sliding scale program make specialized prosthodontic care accessible to more Durham families. We believe financial barriers shouldn't prevent anyone from receiving premium dental care.
Student Supervision Model Receive thorough, careful treatment from motivated dental students under direct prosthodontist supervision—premium care at reduced costs with extra attention to detail.
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, don't settle for anything less than specialized prosthodontic expertise. Our experienced prosthodontists will evaluate your specific situation and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits both your needs and budget.
Ready to experience the prosthodontic difference?
Call Local Start Dental today at 919.569.5533 or contact us online for a consultation. Discover why Durham residents trust our board-certified prosthodontists for life-changing restorative treatments.
If you are looking for the best prosthodontist in Durham, NC, look no further than Local Start Dental. We offer a wide range of prosthodontic services, including dental implants, dentures, partial dentures, bridges, and advanced cosmetic restorations. Contact us today at 919.569.5533 or online for a consultation and get started on achieving a beautiful, healthy, and fully functional smile.
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.
Success rates, treatment timelines, and costs mentioned are general estimates and may differ for individual patients. 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.