Tooth Replacement (Prosthodontics)

The specially trained prosthodontists at UT Southwestern Medical Center offer a variety of advanced tools, technologies, and procedures to restore and replace missing or damaged teeth. Our team has the expertise and experience to restore optimum function and appearance to every patient’s smile.

Specialized Care for Missing or Deficient Teeth

Prosthodontics is a dental specialty that involves the use of dental prosthetics to restore and replace missing or deficient teeth and maxillofacial tissue.

UT Southwestern’s specialized prosthodontists have extensive training and experience in treating all types of cases – from the common and straightforward to the severe and complex.

Our dedication to providing expert, compassionate care makes an important difference in our patients’ treatment and changes their outlook on the future. Our specialists can help patients achieve a level of dental health they haven’t had in years.

Tooth Replacement Services

Treatments to Restore and Repair Teeth

UT Southwestern’s tooth restoration and replacement services include:

• Dental crowns: Tailor-made porcelain “caps” that replace the entire external portion of damaged teeth, replicating their function and appearance
• Dental bridges: Nonremovable artificial teeth that are attached to a prosthesis bonded to the remaining natural teeth on both sides of a toothless gap
• Porcelain veneers: Very thin, strong pieces of porcelain affixed to the teeth that are used to change the appearance of tooth shape, size, position, or color
• Dentures: Prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth; includes complete and removable sets
• Dental implants: A state-of-the-art solution to missing teeth in which artificial teeth are attached to tiny titanium posts that are inserted into the jaw bone

Face and Jaw Surgery

For patients with restoration or replacement issues beyond the mouth, UT Southwestern offers maxillofacial prosthodontics. Our maxillofacial surgeons use the most sophisticated techniques to correct defects of the head, face, and jaw caused by tumors, cancer surgery, traumatic injuries, or birth defects.

Prostheses, made from human tissue or artificial materials, include eyes, ears, noses, and special devices to improve speech and swallowing.