When a patient loses teeth, the effects reach far beyond their smile. Chewing, speaking and confidence can all change. Prosthodontists are the dental specialists who focus on restoring and replacing teeth so patients can function well again.
So, what is a prosthodontist, and how does someone become one? In this guide, you will learn what prosthodontists do, what kinds of treatment they provide and how much extra training the specialty requires. You will also see how they work with other members of the dental team, what official pay data shows and how to explore this specialty while you are still a student. It is a less familiar specialty than orthodontics, so many pre-dental students know little about it.
A prosthodontist is a dentist who specializes in prosthodontics. The American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) cites the ADA definition of the specialty: the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of oral function for patients with missing or deficient teeth or oral and facial tissues.
In plain words, prosthodontists repair or replace teeth. Their work often includes:
Some prosthodontists focus on maxillofacial prosthetics. This area helps patients with head and neck defects caused by cancer, surgery, trauma or conditions present at birth.
Prosthodontists often treat complex cases. They may plan treatment together with general dentists, oral surgeons, periodontists and dental lab technicians. For example, an oral surgeon may place an implant, while the prosthodontist designs and places the final tooth replacement.
Treatment can take several visits over months. Prosthodontists study how a patient chews, speaks and smiles, then design a plan that fits. They often work closely with patients who feel self-conscious about missing teeth, so clear communication and patience matter.
The path starts like any other dental career:
The ACP notes that a prosthodontist has three years of extended training in several areas of restorative dentistry. Maxillofacial prosthetics requires one additional year of fellowship training. During that time, residents treat complex cases under faculty supervision and learn how to work with dental labs and other specialists.
If you are still choosing a major, our guide to the best pre-dental majors explains how to plan prerequisites in any field.
According to the BLS, prosthodontists had a median annual wage of $311,180 in May 2025. In the same period, general dentists had a median of $170,950. BLS projects 6 percent employment growth for dentists overall from 2025 to 2035. Higher pay comes with longer training and its costs, so weigh both.
You do not need to choose a specialty before dental school. Still, early exposure can help you learn what you enjoy.
A dental service learning trip is another way to see dental care in a new setting. On Smiles Movement trips, students shadow local dental professionals at mobile clinics and help with oral health education for children in partner communities.
Prosthodontists help patients chew, speak and smile with confidence again. If you want to explore dentistry alongside dental professionals before you choose a specialty, Smiles Movement can help. Fill out the form or download our brochure to get more information about upcoming programs and trip dates.
A prosthodontist repairs and replaces teeth using options such as implants, crowns, bridges and dentures, and treats complex cases involving missing teeth or oral tissues.
Prosthodontists first complete dental school. The American College of Prosthodontists notes that a prosthodontist then has three years of extended training in restorative dentistry.
A prosthodontist is a dentist who completed additional specialty training in restoring and replacing teeth.