What branch of dentistry focuses on the replacement of missing parts?

Prosthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the replacement of missing teeth and other oral structures. This area of practice involves the design, creation, and fitting of various types of dental prostheses, such as dentures, bridges, and crowns. The goal of prosthodontics is not only to restore aesthetics but also to restore functionality to the patient's smile, enabling them to chew properly and speak clearly. Prosthodontists are trained to handle challenging cases involving missing teeth, ensuring that patients receive personalized care and tailored solutions based on their individual dental needs.

Other branches mentioned focus on different aspects of dental care: orthodontics emphasizes alignment of teeth and jaws, periodontics specializes in the treatment of gum disease and supporting structures of the teeth, while endodontics deals with the treatment of dental pulp and root canal therapy. Each branch plays a unique role in oral health, but prosthodontics specifically targets the restoration and replacement of lost dental components.