How is a dental prosthetist different from a dentist?

The term “prosthesis” means replacement and “dental” means dealing with teeth. So, dental prosthetics is an area of dentistry focussed on dentures as a replacement for tooth loss.  

Dental prosthetists have specific training in the clinical and technical skills that qualify them to assess, design, construct, fit and adjust patient-removable dentures.  They are highly knowledgeable of the appropriate methods to construct oral appliances from a variety of materials. A prosthetist often begins their career as dental technician (trained in the fabrication of dental restorations) before either completing an Advanced Diploma in Dental Prosthetics or a Bachelor of Oral Health in Dental Prosthetics, which takes around three years. To practise as a dental prosthetist, you need to be registered with the Dental Board of Australia.

Dentists spend at least five years at dental school to become qualified and are extremely knowledgeable in all areas of your dental health care. A dental specialist completes many additional years of advanced education in a specialised area of dentistry, such as oral surgery or prosthodontics. If you have a complex dental condition, your general dentist may refer you to a dental specialist for treatment.

A dental prosthetist is one part of the dental team who maintain your oral health.

You can check the qualifications and board registration of any health practitioner on the Australian Health Practitioners Registration Agency website at www.ahpra.gov.au

Source: Australian Dental Association