Specialist Prosthodontics at Link House
A prosthodontist specialises in designing and creating artificial replacements for missing or damaged natural teeth. This can range from crafting a crown or veneer for a damaged or decayed tooth to designing and fabricating a complete set of replacement teeth.
Specialist Prosthodontics in Brighton & Hove
Prosthodontists bring unique expertise in various areas, including cosmetic restorative dental treatment, dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, partial dentures, major reconstructions, and treatments for traumatic injuries or oral cancer. They are also skilled in managing conditions like TMD (jaw joint problems) and providing comprehensive oral rehabilitation, often involving multiple specialties.
Typically, prosthodontists handle more complex dental issues, particularly for patients who are missing teeth or facing significant functional or aesthetic challenges. A prosthodontist can often save and restore teeth which initially appear too compromised, avoiding the removal and replacement of teeth.
If you’re considering major changes to your smile or dental implants, consult the specialist prosthodontists at Link House Dental and receive the highest quality care for your dental needs!
Helping you choose the perfect solution
There are many different solutions and materials available, but don’t worry. Our specialists have the knowledge and expertise to select the best solution for you. We are here to provide all the information you need and help you make the right choice for your smile.
Our aim is to achieve the highest level of personal care by providing the latest in dental care, including restorative and cosmetic treatment.
Specialist Prosthodontics Procedures at Link House Dental
Dental Implants
For detailed information about dental implants, please visit our dedicated Dental Implant treatment page here.
Bridges
When one or more teeth are missing, a bridge can restore your smile by anchoring crowns on the adjacent teeth to support false teeth. Bridges are cemented in place and are not removable. They require the same care as natural teeth; our hygienists will demonstrate proper flossing techniques to help you maintain them.
Benefits of Bridges:
- Improve function and chewing efficiency
- Prevent adjacent teeth from drifting or tilting and stop opposing teeth from growing into the gap
- Reduce the risk of food impaction, which can lead to gum disease and future tooth loss
- Improve speech
- Enhance appearance and boost confidence
- Provide better feedback when eating/speaking compared to implants and dentures
There are various types of bridges:
- Conventional Bridges: Made from porcelain, metal, glass ceramic, zirconia or a combination of these materials. These involve removing some tooth structure, so they can be destructive for the tooth structure and can be time-consuming.
- Minimal Preparation Bridges: These involve attaching artificial teeth using a metal wing hidden behind the natural tooth. The main advantage of these bridges is that they require minimal alteration of the adjacent teeth. They’re suitable only when the teeth adjacent to the gap have sufficient enamel and a favourable bite. These bridges may be called “Maryland,” “Rochette,” “Adhesive,” or “Resin-bonded” bridges. Minimal preparation bridges have an increased tendency to become detached.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: A dental implant can support multiple tooth units, with the bridge either cemented or screwed to the implants. The number of implants required depends on various factors.
There are always many alternatives to restore a missing tooth or teeth. We always discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different options with our patients, ensuring you are part of the treatment planning process.
Crowns (also known as ‘caps’)
Crowns are laboratory-constructed restorations covering all or parts of a tooth to improve appearance and function. They are used to restore decayed or damaged teeth and improve aesthetics. They may be made of different materials, from metal and porcelain to all ceramic to zirconia, and constructed differently. Each of these materials has different prerequisites and different applications. For example, some materials provide better aesthetics but can be more fragile. A badly broken tooth may need a post fitted into the root of the tooth to give better support to the crown.
Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are excellent alternatives for replacing large fillings and fractured teeth, as they require less tooth reduction than crowns while preserving the tooth’s strength. These restorations are matched to the colour of your teeth and are bonded (glued) in place. They are very durable and protect the structure of the underlying tooth.
To book an appointment, enquire about our prosthodontics services or make a referral, simply click the button below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions about Link House’s specialist prosthodontic services. Should you not find an answer to your question, please get in touch with us, and a Link House Dental team member will be happy to help you.
What is the difference between a crown and a veneer?
The main difference between a crown and a veneer is the extent of the tooth they cover. A crown covers the entire tooth, while a veneer only covers the front of the tooth and is usually thinner.
Can my general dentist provide a crown?
While prosthodontists specialise in advanced prosthodontic procedures, it’s important to note that general dentists are also trained to provide basic prosthodontic services. In less complex cases, general dentists can offer dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Do I need to be referred by a dentist?
A referral is not required. However, we encourage patients to have a referral from a dentist. This provides us with details about your dental health and can reduce the need for unnecessary radiographs or investigations.
What happens at the initial consultation?
When you visit us for an initial consultation, we will take time to listen to you, discuss your previous dental treatment and experiences and identify your concerns. We will then thoroughly examine your whole mouth and take X-rays as required. This is nothing to be frightened of. We simply take a comprehensive look around to get an accurate picture of your oral health. We will then take time to discuss the current status and the possible treatment solutions. All treatment options are, of course, discussed with you on an individual basis, and written treatment plans and estimates are provided. If a dentist has referred you, we will also liaise with them and write a report for them. Usually, the consultation lasts 45-60 minutes, and during this time, you can ask any questions you may have.
How much does treatment cost?
Treatment fees will depend on several factors, such as the number of teeth needing repair or replacement and the type of prosthesis. Some additional procedures may be required prior to the placement of crowns, bridges or dental implants to ensure long-term success. We always provide a written fee estimate and treatment schedule following a thorough diagnostic examination, during which the specialist evaluates the best treatment options for you.