Main Priorities of a Prosthodontist

reviewed by:
Michael L Bleeker, DMD
Scottsdale Center for Implant Dentistry
Board Certified Maxillofacial Prosthodontist

What is a Prosthodontist?

“Sometimes called the ‘architects of the smile,’ prosthodontists are highly trained specialists with a unique understanding of all the elements that go into a beautiful, functional and natural-looking smile--not just the teeth, but also the gums, lips, and facial features.”[1]

Prosthodontics is a specialization of dentistry. After graduating from college and completing the required four years of dental school, a prosthodontist then completes an additional three years of advanced training in a graduate program accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA).

Dr. Michael L. Bleeker, D.M.D., F.A.C.P., is a Board-Certified Specialist in prosthodontics who is affiliated with a number of prestigious dental organizations such as The American Board of Prosthodontics and the ADA. For a more comprehensive look at Dr. Bleeker’s background--click here.

What Does a Prosthodontist Do?

“As their name implies (‘prosthesis’ = addition or attachment, ‘odont’ = tooth), these specialists plan and carry out procedures related to the replacement of natural teeth, in part or in full, with biocompatible substitutes.”[2]

At Villa Canyon Prosthodontics--we offer a number of dental treatment options ranging from teeth whitening to porcelain veneers.

Main Priorities[3]

Prosthodontists are recognized as the go-to experts when anything needs to be replaced in the mouth. This treatment can range from replacing or fixing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth and gums in the mouth. “While many other dentists can do some of these treatments, prosthodontists are the specialists dedicated to this type of care….They regularly lead teams of general dentists, specialists, or other health professionals to develop solutions for your dental needs.”

A prosthodontist’s priorities include[4]:

Several areas of restorative dentistry, including:

  • Dental implants
  • Crowns
  • Bridges
  • Complete dentures
  • Partial dentures
  • Esthetics
  • Occlusion
  • Facial and dental birth development defects

Technical and technological aspects of laboratory fabrication of:

  • Complex dental prosthetics
  • Complex restoration of dental and facial esthetics

The diagnosing and treatment of planning of patients who have complex dental needs that require treatment services that primarily involve the repair or replacement of natural teeth with a variety of fixed or removable prosthetic options

“Prosthodontics has evolved into its current form through the gradual assimilation of multiple distinct areas of dental practice. Fixed prosthodontics, removable prosthodontics, maxillofacial prosthetics and esthetic dentistry are unique aspects of the broader specialty of prosthodontics in its modern form.”

To schedule a consultation with Scottsdale Prosthodontist Dr. Bleeker, please call 480-306-8510 or click here.

Remember to give your teeth the attention they need today!

[1] Prosthodontics Dentistry." What Is a Prosthodontist? | Types Of Dentistry. Accessed April 30, 2018. https://www.dentalplans.com/dental-information/types-of-dentists/prosthodontist.

[2] Prosthodontics Dentistry." What Is a Prosthodontist? | Types Of Dentistry. Accessed April 30, 2018. https://www.dentalplans.com/dental-information/types-of-dentists/prosthodontist.

[3] "Why See a Prosthodontist?" GoToAPro. Accessed April 30, 2018. https://www.gotoapro.org/why-see-a-prosthodontist/.

[4] American College of Prosthodontics (ACP). "What Is a Prosthodontist and the Dental Specialty of Prosthodontics?" Prosthodontics.org. November 4, 2014. Accessed April 30, 2018. https://www.prosthodontics.org/assets/1/7/1.What_is_a_Prosthodontist_and_the_Dental_Specialty_of_Prosthodontics__-_approved1.pdf.

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Reviews

What our patients are saying

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I have been a patient of Dr. Bleeker’s for many years, and it has always been a pleasure to be under his care. His professionalism is truly beyond the highest standard. He consistently demonstrates exceptional skill, integrity, and genuine concern for his patients. Several years ago, I had veneers placed, and they performed beautifully without any issues for many years. When one of the veneered teeth later came off, Dr. Bleeker recommended placing a full crown, which worked perfectly. About a week later, a second tooth veneer came loose. Rather than simply replacing it, he chose to place another full crown to ensure a stronger, longer-lasting result. What impressed me most was that both crowns were provided free of charge—far beyond what I ever expected. Dr. Bleeker truly went above and beyond to stand behind his work and ensure I was completely satisfied. I am incredibly grateful for his dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence. I highly recommend Dr. Bleeker to anyone seeking outstanding dental care.
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William Mcardle
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I am a general dentist in Phoenix and I needed Dr Bleeker’s help with a complex denture where my patient had to have his mandibular bone removed and replaced with a leg bone. I successfully help my patients with dentures in my office, but this particular case was beyond my skill level. Dr Bleeker has been exactly what this patient needed—knowledgeable, kind, easy to work with, and full of solutions. I will definitely refer other complex patients to Dr Bleeker.
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Paul Nielson
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I’ve been to quite a few dentists in my time. I have implants and crowns and hands down Dr. Bleeker and his fabulous assistant, Cheryl make it worthwhile to drive from the Biltmore area to North Scottsdale. I highly recommend this dental practice.
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Sherrie Kelly
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Best office ever! Dr Bleeker is so talented and Cheryl and Melinda are so knowledgeable and kind! Always leave there laughing and having a great time!!!!
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Interiors professional
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I met Dr Bleeker on a referral; I was able To get right away because of a cancellation. I love the easy manner Dr Bleeker has and how relaxed he is. His PA Cheryl is very professional, however, she will always make you smile. They have all the latest technology including lasers for healing and Yomi for robotic surgery implant placement.
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Beverly Schwartz
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Very clean office great atmosphere! Very professional staff! Dr Bleeker is very artistic
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Lyn Chi profile picture
Lyn Chi
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This is the best place to go for any and all dental work! The staff and the doctor know what they’re doing. I can’t believe the difference in knowledge, experience and technology that they have. Just don’t go anywhere else you will regret it. That’s what happened to me…all of the time and money I wasted at these other dental offices ..I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Bleeker and his staff.
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