Dr. Stephen Alfano, of Balboa Island Dentistry, located in Newport Beach, California, and serving patients throughout the greater Orange County area, is board certified in prosthodontics. He has unparalleled expertise in providing the full scope of available prosthodontic tooth restorations.

Prosthodontics Q & A

What is prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that is recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). This specialty focuses on the diagnosis, planning, treatment and maintenance of oral conditions associated with missing or severely damaged teeth and/or issues pertaining to gum and jaw tissues. The term “prostho” means replacement and “dontist” means dealing with teeth. A board certified prosthodontist, such as Dr. Alfano, has completed three additional years of advanced training in an accredited prosthodontic graduate program, following completion of dental school.

What specific services can a prosthodontics provide?

Prosthodontists are experts in replacing or repairing just about any part of the inside of a patient’s mouth, whether that is a single tooth or all 32 teeth. With three years of advanced post-dental school training, a prosthodontist is equipped to provide the full range of cosmetic dentistry options, as well as treat basic dental issues such as cavities, toothaches, temporomandibular disorders (TMJ/TMD), root canals, tooth discoloration and provide routine cleaning services.

Why should I choose a prosthodontist for my cosmetic dentistry needs?

A major part of a prosthodontist’s day to day work involves cosmetic dentistry procedures. They are experts in using dental restorations of all types, not only to create or restore aesthetically beautiful smiles but also to provide optimum function and comfort. As a board-certified prosthodontist with two decades of experience in practice, Dr. Alfano is an expert in every aspect of cosmetic dentistry, possessing advanced training and hands-on expertise in the full array of state-of-the-art techniques and procedures. He is highly adept at treating a full spectrum of cases, ranging from the most basic to those that are highly complicated. Dr. Alfano especially enjoys the challenge of treating complex and previously treated cases that turned out less than ideal or with complications. The satisfaction of repairing someone’s smile and bite is very satisfying. The cosmetic dental procedures Dr. Alfano commonly provides at Balboa Island Dentistry are:

  • Teeth whitening
  • Dental implants
  • Dental veneers
  • Tooth-colored fillings
  • Dental bonding
  • Dentures (partials and full)
  • Bridges
  • Crowns