Our Towson, MD dentist office goes above and beyond to provide our patients with excellent dental care. Our doctors are not only some of the best dentists in our surrounding area, but they are also some of the most highly-trained prosthodontists in the area as well.
Prosthodontistry is a field of dental care that specializes in restorations that address restoring your smile after tooth loss or jaw pain disorders. Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson are trained in prosthodontistry, and allow this additional expertise to guide them in making personalized treatment plans for our patients.
Prosthodontists in Towson, MD
Dr. Patrick Ousborne completed two years of advanced specialized training at the University Of Florida College Of Dentistry in Prosthodontics which included fixed, removable, implant, and maxillofacial prostheses. . From 1997 to 1999, he practiced Prosthodontics with an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry in Fort Lauderdale.
Currently, he maintains membership in the American College of Prosthodontists, the Southeastern Academy of Prosthodontics, among other professional affiliations. He has been featured in Baltimore Magazine’s “Baltimore’s Best Prosthodontists” for many consecutive years. He was voted by his peers to be the Prosthodontist they would most likely refer to for specialized care.
Dr. Rikki Esterson completed three years of advanced specialized training at the Department of Veterans Affairs New York Harbor Healthcare System, which included fixed, removable, cosmetic, and implant dentistry. Dr. Esterson is a member of the American College of Prosthodontists, Maimonides Dental Study Club, and Women in Dentistry.
Together, Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson uphold our practice’s mission of providing excellence in all things dentistry. With their extensive prosthodontics backgrounds, they are able to more effectively assess your dental concerns and come up with a restorative dentistry plan that best meets your needs.
How Prosthodontists Differ From Dentists
Prosthodontists specialize in restorative dentistry solutions. They have received extensive training on tooth reconstruction options, dental implants, dental bridges, dentures, and dental crowns which other general dentists have not. Many prosthodontists focus on your jaw health and facial structure to inform your treatment plans. This is especially important for patients with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders, or TMJ disorders. They can also help advise patients on treatment plans for cleft palates, sleep apnea, and oral injury recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do prosthodontists evaluate bone health for implant placement?
Prosthodontists assess bone health using digital X-rays or 3D cone beam scans to check bone density, height, and width in the jaw. These images show if the jaw can securely hold an implant and help plan precise placement. If the bone is too thin or soft, we may recommend grafting before moving forward. This evaluation ensures a stable, long-lasting result.
Can a prosthodontist help with jaw-related disorders like TMJ?
Yes, prosthodontists are trained to diagnose and manage TMJ disorders. They evaluate how your bite, jaw joint, and teeth work together and may recommend oral appliances, bite adjustments, or custom splints. In complex cases, they also work with other specialists for a coordinated approach. Their focus on bite and function makes them well-equipped to treat TMJ-related issues.
Do prosthodontists treat patients who have suffered dental trauma?
Absolutely. Prosthodontists often restore teeth and oral structures damaged by accidents or injury. They create custom plans using crowns, bridges, implants, or dentures to rebuild function and appearance. Their training in complex cases makes them ideal for helping patients recover from significant dental trauma.
When should I see a prosthodontist instead of a general dentist?
You should see a prosthodontist for complex restorative needs, such as full-mouth reconstruction, multiple missing teeth, or implant-supported restorations. They’re also the right choice for cosmetic procedures that require advanced planning and precision. While general dentists handle routine care, prosthodontists specialize in restoring form, function, and aesthetics in more challenging cases.
Are prosthodontists trained to handle implant-supported dentures and bridges?
Yes, prosthodontists receive extensive training in designing and placing implant-supported restorations, including bridges and dentures. They focus on achieving proper alignment, bite function, and aesthetics for long-term comfort and durability. Their expertise helps ensure that the restoration fits securely and functions naturally. They also oversee the full process from planning to placement.
How does prosthodontic care support long-term oral health after tooth loss?
Prosthodontic replacements maintain proper chewing function and prevent remaining teeth from shifting into empty spaces. Replacing missing teeth prevents bone loss in the jaw and maintains facial support that keeps you looking younger. Proper tooth replacement restores balanced bite forces, reducing strain on remaining teeth and jaw joints. Without replacement, adjacent teeth often develop problems from taking on extra chewing stress.
Schedule An Appointment
Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson are your local prosthodontists in Towson, MD. Schedule a dental exam with us online today.