Prosthodontist vs. Oral Surgeon: Which Specialist Do You Need for Dental Implants?
When you are considering major dental work like All-On-X (AOX) dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, crowns, bridges, and more, you will likely encounter two types of specialists: a prosthodontist and an oral surgeon.
At Facial Designs, P.A., you do not have to choose between them. We bring these two elite skill sets together under one roof to ensure a seamless experience and hospital-level clinical care.
What is the Difference?
Oral Surgeon
Focuses on the “foundation,” including the medical and surgical aspects of the jaw, bone grafting, and the precise placement of dental implant posts.
Prosthodontist
Focuses on the “artistry,” specializing in the design, replacement, and restoration of teeth to ensure optimal function and aesthetics.
The Foundation: Dr. VanSurksum, Board-Certified Oral Surgeon
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the architect of your surgical foundation. Dr. VanSurksum, DDS is a board-certified oral surgeon who brings over 35 years of experience to every case, ensuring your surgery is both precise and safe.
For patients with severe bone loss who have been told they are not candidates for traditional restorations, Dr. VanSurksum offers specialized expertise in zygomatic implants and remote anchorage techniques. While many providers refer these high-complexity cases to the Mayo Clinic, Dr. VanSurksum delivers these advanced solutions at our Twin Cities locations in Minnetonka and Excelsior.
Our practice is a Category 1 Anesthesia Facility, meaning Dr. VanSurksum and our onsite Licensed RN follow hospital-level safety standards to keep you comfortable throughout your procedure.
The Artistry: Dr. Clark-Gold, Prosthodontist
A prosthodontist is the master designer of your new smile. Dr. Zane Clark-Gold, Prosthodontist, completed three years of advanced residency training and holds a Master of Science in Dentistry focused on dental implant mechanics.
In our integrated model, Dr. Clark-Gold utilizes advanced CAD-CAM technology and photogrammetry to design teeth with a perfect, natural fit.
His expertise covers a full range of restorative services, including:
- Full Mouth Reconstruction
- Dental Crowns and Bridges
- Veneers
He focuses on your “bite” to ensure the long-term stability of your smile so you can bite into life with total confidence.
The Integrated Advantage: Two Specialists, One Mission
In most dental settings, patients must act as their own “project manager,” moving between different offices for surgery and restoration. We have simplified this process.
During your collaborative consultation, you meet with both Dr. Roderick VanSurksum, Board-Certified Oral Surgeon, and Dr.Zane Clark-Gold, Prosthodontist, at the same time. By working under one roof, our “Dr. Duo” eliminates the communication gap found in traditional referrals, leading to more predictable results and a faster transformation.
Through our proprietary Total Design!™ process, we can often provide your initial teeth on the same day as your surgery. We also utilize Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) to accelerate your natural healing and significantly reduce postoperative discomfort.
How Will an Oral Surgeon and Prosthodontist Work With My General Dentist?
At Facial Designs, P.A., we believe in the importance of the “dental home.” Dr. VanSurksum and Dr. Clark-Gold acts as a collaborative extension of your general dentist’s practice, especially for complex cases like zygomatic implants.
We partner with more than 175 referring dentists across Minnesota to deliver specialized surgical and restorative care with total predictability.
When your dentist refers you to our office, we prioritize clear communication and fully coordinated care. Dr. VanSurksum and Dr. Clark‑Gold work directly with your dentist to build a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs while ensuring you are never “handed off.”
Once your specialized treatment is complete, you will return to your general dentist for your routine preventative cleanings and long-term maintenance. This partnership ensures that a cohesive team of experts manages both the functional and aesthetic aspects of your smile.
How to Begin Your Journey
You deserve the combined expertise of a Board-Certified Oral Surgeon and a Prosthodontist. To begin your smile transformation:
- Request a Referral: Ask your dentist to submit your details through our secure portal.
- Schedule a Consultation Directly: You do not need a referral to see us. Call our Minnetonka or Excelsior office to schedule your collaborative consultation today.
