If you are missing one or more teeth, now is the time to explore your dental care options. Tooth loss can affect nearly every part of your life—from how you eat and speak to how you feel about your smile. This isn’t a problem that resolves on its own; it requires expert care. For patients needing advanced solutions, professional referrals can help connect you with the right dental specialist. 

At NewStart Denture + Implant Partners, we use advanced technology and high-quality materials to restore smiles with precision and care. If you’ve received a referral from your general dentist or you’re wondering if you need one, we’re here to guide you through the process and provide the expert prosthodontic care you deserve. 

What are professional referrals? 

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), a dental referral occurs when your general dentist recommends that you see a specialist for care beyond their scope of practice. This may include complex restorative procedures such as dentures, bridges, or implants, often requiring advanced training, materials, and equipment. 

So, why would a general dentist refer a patient to a prosthodontist? When a patient’s treatment needs involve multiple specialists, a prosthodontist often serves as the “quarterback” to coordinate care. Many treatment plans can span several months, including restoring an entire arch—upper, lower, or both. In these instances, a general dentist often has a trusted prosthodontist to help execute such extensive treatment.

Finally, when a case involves missing or damaged teeth, bite misalignment, or extensive tooth wear, a general dentist will often refer to a specialist, like a prosthodontist, for more specialized care. Patients who require removable or partial dentures are often referred to a prosthodontist, as many general dentists don’t provide these services as often. 

What is prosthodontic care? 

A prosthodontist is a dental specialist with advanced training in restoring and replacing teeth. This includes designing and placing artificial teeth such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and dental implants. Prosthodontists are also trained to handle issues affecting jaw function, bite alignment, and cosmetic restoration. 

Appointments with a prosthodontist typically include an in-depth review of your dental and medical history and a comprehensive exam. At NewStart Denture + Implant Partners, our team will listen to your concerns, evaluate your needs, and recommend options that align with your health goals, budget, and lifestyle. 

Why should you see a prosthodontist? 

A dentist referral to a specialist is often based on the complexity or severity of the dental issue. Common reasons for a referral to a prosthodontist include: 

• Replacement of missing teeth using dental implants, dentures, or bridges 
• Reconstruction of broken, worn, or severely decayed teeth 
• Cosmetic procedures such as veneers or smile makeovers 
• Treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) 
• Bite correction or occlusal therapy 
• Chronic facial or jaw pain 
• Supportive devices for obstructive sleep apnea 

These are all situations where specialized prosthodontic care can lead to better outcomes and long-term success. If any of these issues apply to you, ask your dentist if a referral is appropriate or contact a prosthodontist directly for an evaluation. 

Prosthodontic care at NewStart Denture + Implant Partners 

At NewStart, we’re proud to be a trusted option for patients needing prosthodontic care in North Carolina. We offer full-service solutions for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile using: 

• Dental implants for permanent tooth replacement 
• Bridges to close gaps between teeth 
• Dentures for full or partial tooth loss 
• Digital imaging and treatment planning for precise, natural-looking results 

Our goal is to make sure you feel informed, empowered, and comfortable at every step of your treatment. 

Get the care you deserve 

If you’re in North Carolina and dealing with missing or damaged teeth, don’t wait. With the right care, you can regain your smile and your confidence. Whether you’ve received professional referrals or are simply exploring options, NewStart Denture + Implant Partners is here to help. 

Call us at 919.822.9154 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation with our experienced prosthodontic team. Discover how expert prosthodontic care can restore your health and transform your smile.