Dental Prosthetist vs Dentists: What's the Difference?

Oral health problems are common among Australians. In fact, Australian adults will experience an average of 11.2 decayed, filled, or missing teeth over the course of their lives.

If you’re dealing with any kind of dental issue—especially missing teeth—you might be wondering which oral health expert to see. Should you book an appointment with a general dentist, or is a denture prosthetist the right fit for your needs?

The decision often depends on the type of tooth replacement you need, the condition of your natural teeth, and the kind of care you’re looking for. This guide explains the differences between these two professionals and helps you make the right choice for your smile.

What Is a Dentist?

A dentist is a professional registered by the Dental Board of Australia. They are trained to diagnose and treat various diseases that affect the teeth and gums.

General dentists provide essential dental services in a variety of settings, from private practices to community health centres and public dental clinics. They perform a wide range of routine oral health procedures, including tooth cleanings, removals, and fillings — often working alongside a dental hygienist to support preventive care.

Some general dentists also go on to specialise in specific areas of general dentistry, such as dental surgery, cosmetic dentistry, or further training as a dental specialist.

What Is a Denture Prosthetist?

A denture prosthetist (also known as a dental prosthetist) is a type of dental professional who specialises in — you guessed it, dentures. They don’t handle other dental procedures like cleanings, fillings, or extractions.

Dental prosthetists, like dentists, are registered by the Dental Board of Australia. However, they have completed more rigorous training than a typical dentist and have received a diploma or degree in the field of advanced dental prostethic work.

They often begin their careers as a dental technician, working in labs where they learn how to create removable dentures, complete dentures, and other oral appliances tailored to each patient’s needs. Many go on to work in or run a denture clinic, offering specialised services focused on tooth replacement and appliance care. With their in-depth understanding of denture care, prosthetists also stay up to date with the latest technologies and best practices in the field.

Denture Prosthetist vs Dentist: Which Should You Choose?

The decision to work with a dental prosthetist or a dentist depends on your specific condition and goals. Here are some questions you might want to ask yourself to determine which dental practitioner you should visit:

Do I Need Routine Dental Care?

If it has been a long time since you had your teeth professionally cleaned, you might need to visit a dentist. They will perform a dental cleaning and check for potential concerns like cavities, receding gums, or teeth that may require extraction.

Dentists are also equipped to carry out a wide range of dental treatments and dental procedures beyond what a prosthetist provides.

Remember that denture prosthetists do not perform routine dental care.

If it’s been a while since you’ve received this type of care, book an appointment with a dentist first. This helps you get a better understanding of the state of your teeth and gums before you see a prosthetist.

If you’re dealing with pain, swelling, or a damaged tooth, an emergency dentist can provide urgent care before you consider long-term tooth replacement options.

Do I Need a Tooth (or Teeth) Extracted?

Do you know that you need a tooth — or perhaps several teeth — extracted? If so, your dentist can take care of this procedure for you.

Dental prosthetists don’t handle tooth extractions or other types of routine care. You’ll need to meet with a general dentist to get this done.

A dentist can handle the tooth removal process and help you prepare for your next step — whether that’s a new denture, a dental implant, or another type of replacement teeth. In some cases, they may also recommend a dental crown to protect a damaged tooth rather than remove it entirely.

What If I Have Missing Teeth?

If you have missing teeth and want to fill in the gaps, you should book an appointment with a dental prosthetist.

A dental prosthetist’s area of expertise is dentures and replacing missing teeth. This is what they work on all day, every day — making them the best choice over a regular dentist when you're looking for expert denture services and long-lasting results.

They will assess your situation and help you decide whether you need a partial denture, immediate denture, or complete dentures, based on how many teeth are missing and your overall oral health. Some prosthetists may also assist with denture implants or dental implants if you prefer a more stable, fixed solution over traditional options.

If you already wear dentures, they can evaluate whether you might benefit from a denture reline to improve comfort and fit.

Still Unsure?

If you’re not sure what solution is best for your missing teeth, consulting with a dental prosthetist can be a great starting point.

As denture experts, they know what to look for when evaluating your remaining teeth, as well as the health of your gums and jaw. They can then let you know what — in their professional opinion — is the best approach.

Keep in mind, too, that many denture prosthetists offer free consultations. This is a risk-free way for you to consider your options and make the right decision for your needs.

Need Dentures? Work with a Trusted Denture Prosthetist Today

If after reading this article you’ve realised a denture prosthetist is what you need, come on down and visit the team at Denture Haus.

We are a trusted dental clinic located in North Brisbane with over 25 years of experience. Whether you’re looking for traditional dentures, immediate dentures, or even emergency denture repair, our experienced team has you covered.

All of our team members are knowledgeable and professional, and we’ll make sure you feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the entire process. From removable dentures to advanced dental prostethic solutions, we provide personalised dental treatment plans and walk you through every dental procedure with care.

Book a free consultation at Denture Haus today to learn more about our denture services and how we can help restore your smile.