If you need to replace several teeth quickly, you could choose between two vetted options. Either a dental bridge or a denture would likely be enough to restore your smile. That said, the question arises: Which of these prosthetics is the better one for you? Rather than mull over the answer yourself, your Temple dentist is here to provide it for you. Keep reading to learn about dental bridges and partial dentures, as well as which suits you most.
How Dental Bridges Work
A dental bridge can work wonders as a tooth replacement, even “filling” large smile gaps. The right one could potentially give you several great teeth at once.
Overall, a dental bridge is a fixed restoration that’s cemented to your mouth. Made of materials fused to either side of an artificial tooth, its main components can be dental crowns or dental implants. The final prosthetic thus remains secure either way, providing anywhere from one to four adjacent lost teeth.
Patients must have (relatively) healthy mouths to get a dental bridge. After all, the nearby natural teeth – or “abutments” – have to be stable enough to secure the appliance. The restoration won’t work otherwise.
How Partial Dentures Work
A partial denture is another fine prosthetic, especially when a dental bridge won’t cut it. The former option provides perks you won’t find with the latter.
Per its name, a partial denture only replaces a few pearly whites. That means the device only has several artificial teeth secured in a pink acrylic base, which fits snugly over the gumline when worn. This prosthetic is also removable, as it only stays in your mouth through suction or clasps.
The fit of a partial denture usually changes with time. As a patient’s jaw and gum tissues erode, the appliance will start to sit less snugly.
Choosing Between Dental Bridges & Dentures
Between dental bridges and dentures, neither one is the absolute “best” choice. Which of the two you should get will depend on your background.
Indeed, you have to consider your situation when picking your device. You’d likely benefit from a dental bridge more if your lost teeth were adjacent, for instance. On the other hand, you may prefer dentures when the missing chompers weren’t near one another. (The same applies if you want a removable restoration.) You’ll also want to account for your desired treatment cost, restoration lifespan, etc.
Before you commit to a dental bridge or denture, please consult a dental provider. They’ll review your situation to help you make the best decision.
About the Author
Dr. Richard Fossum is a dentist based in Temple, TX, having earned his DDS from the UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry. Due to decades of experience, he offers top-tier preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatments you can trust! Whether your aim is a dental bridge or a partial denture, you can trust him to provide what’s best for your grin. Today, Dr. Fossum practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (254)-831-4397.