Dental Bridge Vs. Partial Dentures: Which Is Better
There is no one-size-fits-all, as the best option will depend on your situation, needs and preferences. However, both options can restore your smile and improve oral health.
Talk to your dentist before getting a partial denture or dental bridge near you.
Comparison of Dental Bridges vs. Partial Dentures
Dental bridges and partial dentures are two common options for replacing missing teeth. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consult a dentist in Trafalgar to determine the best option for you.
- What is a Dental Bridge?
A tooth bridge is a fused between two crowns to fill in the space of a missing tooth. The two crowns holding it in place are attached to your natural teeth or implants, and the pontic lies in the gum line. A dental bridge is usually made from porcelain or ceramic fused to metal, but it can also be all metal.
There are different types of dental bridges in Trafalgar, each with advantages and disadvantages. The most common type of dental bridge is the fixed bridge, cemented in place.
Another dental bridge is the cantilever bridge, which is attached to adjacent teeth with metal wings or brackets. A cantilever bridge is typically used when healthy teeth are on only one gap side. The disadvantage of a cantilever bridge is that it places extra force on the supporting tooth or teeth, leading to further damage or tooth loss down the road.
Finally, there is the resin-bonded or Maryland bridge, which consists of a false tooth (or pontic) bonded to metal bands that are then cemented onto existing teeth. A resin-bonded or Maryland bridge can be an option for people with gaps from missing front teeth, but it does not work well for back teeth due to the lack of support.
Pros and Cons of a Dental Bridge
Here are some pros and cons of dental bridges to help you make your decision:
Pros:
- Dental bridges can be used to replace one or multiple missing teeth.
- Bridges can restore your smile and help you chew and speak properly.
- They are usually made from natural-looking materials to blend in with your other teeth.
Cons:
- Dental bridges require healthy teeth on either side of the gap to be used as support. If you do not have healthy teeth, you may not be a candidate for a dental bridge.
- Bridges require two visits to the dentist – one to prepare the support teeth and one to place the bridge.
- Dental bridges last for about a decade and may need to be replaced at some point.
What is a Partial Denture?
These are removable dental appliances that can replace only a few missing teeth. Unlike a dental bridge, permanently attached to the adjacent teeth, a partial denture rests on the gums and uses clips to attach to the adjacent teeth.
Partial dentures are available in several types, including acrylic and cast metal.
Acrylic partial dentures are dental devices used to replace missing teeth. They are acrylic and can be customized to the size, shape, and color of the patient’s natural teeth.
Acrylic partial dentures are recommended for patients who want a more natural look. Acrylic partial dentures also have many benefits, such as being cheaper than other types of dentures, easier to clean and maintain, and less noticeable than other types.
Cast metal partial dentures are used to replace missing teeth and provide a better chewing function.
The cast metal partial denture is a prosthetic used to replace missing teeth and provide a better chewing function. They are made of metal, which makes them durable and strong. The denture is fitted from the gum line to the roof of your mouth, providing support for your gums and other tissues.
Which is More Ideal?
Dentures and bridges are great, but it is important to carefully examine their pros and cons before deciding.
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device cemented onto existing teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that attaches to the teeth with metal clasps.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Indian Creek Family Dentistry for more information about dental bridges and which is ideal.