Periodontal Considerations in Prosthodontics

A beautiful smile can be crafted only against a backdrop of a healthy gingiva, a firm foundation for which is created by a sound periodontium. Periodontics and prosthodontics share an intimate and inseparable relationship in multiple aspects, including treatment plan, execution of procedures, outcome achievement and maintenance. Prosthodontic treatment must aim to enhance patient comfort, function, health and aesthetics. To achieve long term therapeutic targets of comfort, good function, treatment predictability, longevity and ease of restorative and maintenance care, it becomes imperative for a prosthodontist to plan an interdisciplinary approach with simultaneous and coordinated periodontal and prosthodontic care to ensure a favorable outcome for patients with complex prosthodontic and/or periodontal presentations.