It deals with restoring the morpho-functional integrity of the masticatory apparatus and it goes from partial covering of one or more hemiarches, with inlays or onlays for example, to their complex rehabilitation. It stands as the final process and requires a full knowledge of all the other specialties before (conservative, endodontics, implantology, and more than that parodontology). Prosthodontist is in charge of what will be the final occlusion of the patient; he chooses an intercuspal rehabilitation or one in centric relation, depending on restoration or stability of the initial occlusion.
Like others dentistry specialties, in the last twenty years prosthodontics has evolved surprisingly from a technological point of view, not only related to new possibilities given by a more and more reliable implantology, but also by the massive use of CAD-CAM computer technology in odontotechnical laboratories, which this specialty cannot do without. Brand new materials are now available for aesthetical rehabilitation, like zirconia or dental porcelain added with lithium disilicate. This one in particular combine conservative preparations, handwork resistance and an amazing natural appearence, due to adhesive luting and translucency