Prosthodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The typical prosthodontic training includes four years of dental school and three years of Prosthodontic Training in areas of dentistry that include crowns, bridges, dentures, cosmetics, tempromandibular joint function and dental implants.

A Prosthodontist provides an extremely high level of care for patients who are missing teeth or have significant damage to their existing teeth. Prosthodontists deal with congenital defects as well as problems arising from trauma and neglect. The Prosthodontist can aid in the rehabilitation of a complete dentition or merely in the replacement of one or two teeth. With the advent of dental implants as a viable means of replacing teeth, the prosthodontist's role has expanded substantially. The prosthodontist can supply the control and expertise that is necessary to make an implant supported restoration look and function properly.

A prosthodontist will usually treat the more difficult dental problems such as people who are missing many teeth or have significant functional or aesthetic problems. While the general practitioner is capable of handling most simple crown and bridge procedures to replace and repair missing teeth. When it comes to restoring an entire arch or the whole mouth, the prosthodontist is indicated for this difficult and complex type of dental treatment.

Patients contemplating dental implants or major changes in their appearance should consult with a prosthodontist to assure that they are gaining the best possible care for their dentition. These difficult treatments require the expertise that is only available by a trained prosthodontist.

Training requirements for prosthodontics are very strict and standardized throughout the country. Dentist from all over the world compete to get into the training programs that are here in the United states. Prosthodontic programs are usually small and extremely difficult to get into.

Rigorous training and experience provide Prosthodontists with the special understanding of the dynamics of the smile, the preservation of a healthy mouth, and the creation of tooth replacements. Serving as the "architect" of a dental treatment plan, Prosthodontists collaborate with general dentists, specialists and other health professionals to develop solutions to your dental concerns.

Dr. McNeel completed his Prosthodontic training at LSU Health Science Center in 1995.   He opened the doors of Ozark Prosthodontics in 1996.  Dr. McNeel can be trusted to handle your unique situation due to the high level of unique training and experience he has.