Prosthodontic Care for Missing & Damaged Teeth

Roughly 120 million people in the United States are missing at least one tooth, and 36 million Americans have lost all of their teeth in one or both jaws. Losing even a single tooth can take a serious toll on a person’s confidence, career prospects, and general health. Fortunately, a special group of dental experts is trained to rebuild these smiles: prosthodontists.

Prosthodontists focus on restoring and replacing teeth that are missing or damaged. They use prosthetic treatments such as dental implants, dentures, and veneers to help patients enhance both their oral health and their quality of life. “If you had a heart problem, you would go to a cardiologist. The same is true for missing or damaged teeth,” said Dr. Derek Gatta. “Whether it’s chewing your favorite food or creating the smile of your dreams, prosthodontists are your partners in healthy, long-lasting restored teeth.” After three to four years of training beyond dental school, prosthodontists are equipped to handle even the most complex oral health concerns.

Whether you need to replace a single tooth or several, a prosthodontist guides you through every stage—from the first consultation to follow-up care—to bring back your smile and confidence. Dr. Derek Gatta belongs to the American College of Prosthodontists, the organization recognized by the American Dental Association for the prosthodontics specialty. To learn more about prosthodontics, patients can visit GoToAPro.org.