Dental bridges and partial dentures are two popular ways to replace missing teeth, and either one can serve excellently in the right situation. If you are wondering how to fill in a gap in your smile, one of these might be the appropriate solution for you. Here’s what you should know about these appliances, how they’re used to replace lost teeth, and how you can know which might be the best way to restore your smile.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a restoration made from ceramic or porcelain that can last for more than fifteen years. The artificial teeth are color-matched to your smile, so no one will be able to tell that its teeth are not natural. Two types of dental bridges are:
Traditional bridges:
These bridges have dental crowns on either end to hold the bridge in place by fitting over the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This process involves the alteration of the teeth hosting these crowns, and they’ll need to remain in good health moving forward in order to properly support the bridge.
Implant bridges:
An implant bridge is held in the mouth by two dental implants on either end. The process begins with placing titanium posts in the jaw, and once they fuse to the bone, your dentist will attach the bridge. This provides the sturdiest foundation available for a dental bridge thanks to the ingenuity of the implant posts, and it does it without altering any healthy tooth structure.
Partial Dentures
A partial denture is a removable restoration with a base typically made of acrylic and artificial teeth usually made from porcelain. It holds its place in the mouth by clipping to the teeth on either side of the gap. While this can be the more affordable solution, a partial denture that is not made or fitted properly can cause damage to healthy teeth. Opting for a denture with metal in the base can prevent it from breaking, which can injure the rest of the smile. Partial dentures can last for about five years.
Which Is Right for Me?
Dental bridges are generally preferred if you are missing one or two teeth while partial dentures are preferred in cases with several missing teeth. If you are at a greater risk for tooth loss, a partial denture might be better because it is generally less expensive and can more easily be replaced. Consulting with your dentist can help you weigh the pros and cons to determine the right course of treatment for you.
About the Author
Dr. Shauna Soltani earned her dental doctorate at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and since then has pursued continuing education to further expand her skills in many specialties. She serves as a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Academy of General Dentistry. Her practice offers general, pediatric, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as dental bridges and partial dentures. If you are curious about whether you are a good candidate for one of these treatments, contact her office online or dial (720) 608-7770.
