There are many different types of dental restorations, which means there’s a tooth replacement solution for everyone – and that it can be difficult to know which one you need. Dental bridges and partial dentures in particular are very similar, and many patients get confused about the difference between the two.
If you’re missing just a few pearly whites, keep reading. You’ll get a better idea of which restoration is right for the job!
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge looks like, well, a bridge. It has a crown on either end of the restoration, which are connected by a string of false teeth. Since it’s essentially a straight line or row, dental bridges are best suited to fill consecutive gaps.
For example, if you’re missing two teeth that were right next to each other, your dentist will carefully place the bridge so that the crowns will sit on top of the remaining pearly whites on either end. The false teeth will then “bridge” the gap, smoothly completing your smile.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures, in comparison, are much more customizable. Your dentist will use impressions to create a gum-colored base that will fit over your upper or lower arch. The false teeth will be placed at intervals along the base, so that when it’s in your mouth, the false pearly whites will only fill your empty dental sockets.
Let’s just say, for the sake of an example, that you’re missing one front tooth and one back tooth. Since the gaps aren’t consecutive, a dental bridge won’t work. But for a partial denture, your dentist can simply fix the false teeth to the front and back of the base. Even if your smile gaps are spaced out, a partial denture will be a seamless restoration!
Which One Do I Need?
Basically, if your missing multiple teeth in a straight row, you’ll likely need a dental bridge. If your missing teeth are more spread out, a partial denture will most likely be best for you. Rest assured, no matter which restoration is right for the job, your dentist will make sure it looks good and feels great!
About the Practice
Our three top-notch dentists in Weatherford are passionate about helping patients feel better about their smiles. They know having a consistent look is important when you’ve experienced tooth loss and use high quality materials that can match the shade of your remaining pearly whites. If you have multiple dental gaps, call our office at 817-594-3806 to schedule your seamless dental bridge or partial denture restoration today!