May 21, 2026
Finding a prosthodontist (tooth replacement specialist) near you can be an overwhelming experience. In fact, many people aren’t even sure where to begin searching. However, the good news is that once you know what you’re looking for, finding the right specialist is much easier.
To that end, here are three important things to consider when conducting your research.
The title “prosthodontist” is more than just a fancy name. To receive this designation, a dental professional has not only earned a “regular” dental degree, but they also completed an additional two to three years of specialized education, including a residency that specifically focused on restorative dentistry procedures like dentures, dental implants, and bridges.
However, a prosthodontist’s preliminary education is just the beginning. After graduation, many specialists continue to sharpen their skills with continuing education classes, and by gaining membership in professional organizations such as:
While skill is the most important quality for a prosthodontist to have, modern technology is essential for helping them ensure that your treatment is a success. Using the right equipment can help them identify any potential challenges, ensure your treatment is accurate, and achieve predictable outcomes.
At our practice, I rely on the detailed images provided by our CT cone beam (CBCT) scanner. You may have seen this machine in our office. It rotates around the patient’s head to capture 360-degree images of the entire oral cavity, including your jawbone. While traditional, two-dimensional X-rays are usually perfectly fine for diagnosing cavities, the CBCT scanner is essential for procedures involving the whole mouth such as dental implants or full mouth reconstruction. A few other important technologies prosthodontists may use include:
While skill and technology are extremely important, if your prosthodontist doesn’t have a good bedside manner, they probably won’t have many patients! Fortunately, you can find out more about their personality and their rapport with others by reading their reviews. Sites like Google, Yelp, and even Reddit are excellent places to gain some insight into their personality, skill level, and even what it’s like interacting with them and their team.
If they have mostly positive reviews across multiple platforms, this is a good sign that they are an ideal fit. However, if you notice consistent complaints or poor ratings, you may want to select a different specialist.
Ultimately, your prosthodontist should not only be well-qualified to provide the treatment you are seeking, but they should also be properly equipped to perform it and should have a consistent record of prioritizing patient comfort. Although it may take a little longer to find the right person for the job, making the time to do the research now can save a lot of time and frustration later.
Dr. Steve Lim earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Washington and his DMD and postgraduate degree in Prosthodontics at the esteemed Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He is currently a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics, a Fellow at the American College of Prosthodontists, and an Associate Fellow in the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry. Additionally, he is an active member of the Academy of Osseointegration, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the American Academy of Prosthodontics. To schedule an appointment for prosthodontic treatment at Center for Advanced Dentistry, visit our website or call 408-292-2848.
Our office is strategically positioned in San Jose, CA, along North Bascom Avenue, offering easy connectivity to major transportation routes and centrally accessible from neighboring communities. The suite is housed within a professional complex with convenient parking options and straightforward building navigation for visitors.
