Prosthodontists may not be as widely recognized as other medical specialists, but their work is life-changing. These dental experts tackle the most complex cases—everything from dental trauma and major reconstructive surgeries to replacing missing teeth with crowns, dentures, implants and fixed bridges.
Their work not only restores oral function but dramatically enhances patients’ quality of life.
Oklahoma City is fortunate to be home to one of the nation’s top prosthodontists: Lars Bouma, D.D.S., a board-certified prosthodontist and partner at Implant & Prosthodontic Associates (IPA). As one of fewer than 500 board-certified prosthodontists in the United States, Dr. Bouma brings a rare blend of technical precision, artistic skill and compassionate care to his work.
“We treat everyone—from young patients born without teeth or with congenital dental issues, to older adults who have worn dentures for decades, to cancer survivors,” Dr. Bouma explains. “We’re also the only dental specialists trained specifically in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry, implant placement and restoration and full mouth reconstruction. We do dentistry mild to wild!”
Originally from Texas, Dr. Bouma moved frequently throughout his youth. A love of science emerged during high school, and with encouragement from his parents, he pursued a career in dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry, then completed an elite residency at the John L. McClellan Veterans Administration, followed by advanced prosthodontic training in the United States Air Force.
“I’m naturally a problem-solver and inventor,” he said. “I discovered in dental school that I had a knack for lab work and that the physical aspects of dentistry came easily to me. Combine that with my MacGyver-like instincts, and prosthodontics became the perfect specialty for me.”
At IPA, patients receive the benefit of both tried-and-true techniques and the latest digital technologies. While many dental offices can feel sterile or rushed, IPA strives to create an environment that is warm, personalized and welcoming.
Among the many memorable cases in his career, one stands out: a woman who had lost 90% of the roof of her mouth due to oral cancer.
“You could see from her mouth into her nose and both maxillary sinuses,” he recalls. “She couldn’t speak clearly, eat, or function normally. Through a combination of implants, a custom implant bar, and other prosthetic solutions, we were able to restore her smile, her speech, her dignity and her ability to live a normal life.”
Dr. Bouma was recruited to join IPA in 2006 by founder Dr. Thomas McGarry and partner Dr. Susan Brackett, both leaders in the American College of Prosthodontists. The practice holds the unique distinction of being the only one in the country where all three partners have served in key leadership roles within the ACP and the Oklahoma Dental Association—including stints as president of each.
That emphasis on professional development and clinical excellence drew Dr. Bouma to the practice. He continues to teach and mentor dentists from all over the country, has taught at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, published peer-reviewed articles, and speaks nationally and internationally on digital innovations in prosthodontics. In 2024, he received the ACP President’s Award in recognition of his contributions to the profession.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Bouma enjoys hands-on hobbies like working on his acreage, welding, metalwork and building furniture. He’s also looking forward to restoring his classic 1970s Ford Bronco. He and his wife of 31 years, Vicki, have two children—Harrison and Carleigh—both currently pursuing careers in health care.
For Dr. Bouma, the most rewarding part of his work is helping patients regain confidence and function.
“Every smile tells a story,” he said. “Our goal is to help patients feel proud of theirs.”
To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit ImplantAssociates.net or call 405.755.7777. IPA is located at 4517 Memorial Circle, Oklahoma City.
“We’re also the only dental specialists trained specifically in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry, implant placement and restoration and full mouth reconstruction. We do dentistry mild to wild!”