Prosthodontics

Rediscover Your Complete Smile in Rapid City

When you’re missing one or more teeth, or dealing with a smile that doesn’t function the way it used to, prosthodontics offers real solutions. At Advanced Dental Professionals, Dr. Aaron Studer and Dr. Shaun Lemmon provide comprehensive prosthodontics in Rapid City, helping patients restore both the look and function of their smiles. Whether you need a simple removable option or a more permanent implant-supported solution, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

What Is Prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is the branch of dentistry focused on designing, fitting, and maintaining replacements for missing or damaged teeth. It’s a highly specialized area of care that combines art and science, since a good prosthetic needs to look natural, feel comfortable, and hold up to the daily demands of eating and speaking. At Advanced Dental Professionals, our approach to prosthodontics centers on creating custom solutions tailored to each patient’s specific needs, whether that means replacing a single tooth or restoring a full arch.

Our Prosthodontic Services

We offer a full range of prosthodontics options to meet patients wherever they are in their tooth replacement journey.

1. Flippers and Removable Partial Dentures: For patients missing a few teeth, a flipper or removable partial denture offers an affordable, non-invasive way to fill the gap. These appliances snap into place and can be removed for cleaning, making them a practical option for many patients.
2. Full and Partial Dentures: Traditional dentures remain one of the most common prosthodontic solutions for patients missing most or all of their teeth. We custom-fit each denture for comfort and a natural appearance, so patients can eat and speak with confidence again.
3. Hybrid Prosthesis: A hybrid prosthesis combines the stability of dental implants with the full coverage of a denture. This fixed solution is secured to implants in the jaw, eliminating the slipping and discomfort that can come with traditional dentures.
4. Implant Restoration: Once a dental implant has been placed and has integrated with the jawbone, it needs a restoration on top, typically a crown, to complete the tooth replacement. Our team designs implant restorations that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
5. Implant-Retained Dentures: For patients who want more stability than traditional dentures provide, implant-retained dentures snap onto a small number of implants, holding the denture securely in place while still allowing for removal when needed.
6. Implant-Retained Partials: Similar to implant-retained dentures, implant-retained partials use implants to anchor a partial denture, offering improved stability for patients who are only missing some of their teeth.

Why Choose Prosthodontics?

Choosing the right prosthodontic option can make a significant difference in daily comfort and confidence. Here’s why so many of our patients turn to prosthodontics to restore their smiles:

• Improved ability to chew and speak clearly
• Restored facial structure and support for lips and cheeks
• A more natural, confident smile
• Options tailored to different budgets and needs
• Long-term solutions that protect remaining oral health
• Custom-fitted appliances designed for comfort

What to Expect

Every prosthodontic journey starts with a consultation, where Dr. Studer or Dr. Lemmon will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the option that best fits your needs. From there, we’ll walk you through the timeline, whether that means a few appointments for a removable partial or a longer process involving implant placement and healing time. We take the time to explain each step so you always know what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which prosthodontic option is right for me?

The best option depends on how many teeth you’re missing, the health of your jawbone, and your personal preferences. During your consultation, we’ll walk through the options that make the most sense for your situation.

Are implant-retained prosthetics more expensive than traditional dentures?

Generally, yes, since they involve the surgical placement of implants. However, many patients find the added stability and longevity worth the investment. We’re happy to go over cost and financing options with you.

How long do prosthodontic appliances last?

This varies by type. Removable dentures and partials often need to be adjusted or replaced every several years, while implant-supported options tend to last much longer with proper care.

Will my prosthetic look natural?

Yes. Every prosthetic we create, from flippers to full hybrid prostheses, is custom-designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.

Restore Your Smile with Confidence

Missing teeth don’t have to hold you back from eating, speaking, and smiling the way you want to. At Advanced Dental Professionals, our team is proud to offer trusted prosthodontics in Rapid City, with options ranging from simple removable partials to advanced implant-supported solutions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out which prosthodontic option is the right fit for your smile.