The branch of dentistry that deals with the restoration and maintenance of oral function by the replacement of missing teeth and other oral structures by artificial devices. Prosthodontics, also known as dental prosthetics or prosthetic dentistry, is the area of dentistry that focuses on dental prostheses. It is one of 12 dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA), Royal College of Surgeons of England, Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland, Royal College of Surgeons of Glasgow, Royal College of Dentists of Canada, and Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons. The ADA defines it as "the dental specialty pertaining to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of the oral function, comfort, appearance and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth or oral and substitutes. Dental prostheory was pioneered by French surgeon Pierre Fauchard during the late 17th and early 18th century. Despite the limitations of the primitive surgical instruments, Fauchard discovered many methods to replace lost teeth using substitutes made from carved blocks of ivory or bone. He also introduced dental braces to correct the position of teeth using gold wires and silk threads. The biggest difference between a prosthodontist and a general dentist is that a prosthodontist deals with replacing teeth and restoring your oral health and function throughout your entire mouth. General dentists focus on repairing teeth and ensuring that they remain healthy.Dental implants like all dental procedures require dental education and training. Implant therapy is a prosthodontic procedure with radiographic and surgical components. Using a dental implant to replace missing teeth is dictated by individual patient needs as determined by their dentist.The biggest difference between a prosthodontist and a general dentist is that a prosthodontist deals with replacing teeth and restoring your oral health and function throughout your entire mouth. General dentists focus on repairing teeth and ensuring that they remain healthy. Dental implants like all dental procedures require dental education and training. Implant therapy is a prosthodontic procedure with radiographic and surgical components. Using a dental implant to replace missing teeth is dictated by individual patient needs as determined by their dentist. Generally, dental policies cover some portion of the cost of preventive care, fillings, crowns, root canals, and oral surgery, such as tooth extractions. They might also cover orthodontics, periodontics (the structures that support and surround the tooth) and prosthodontics, such as dentures and bridge of Prosthodontist - specialize in fixing or replacing teeth i.e. dental implants or dentures. They also fit bridges, crowns and veneers and do some reconstructive work. Orthodontist - specialize in straightening teeth to improve your tooth alignment and bite using braces and retainers.