There are a lot of dental restorations, and it’s easy to get them confused. Bridges and partial dentures are commonly mistaken for each other because, well, they’re incredibly similar! Instead of replacing an entire arch of missing teeth, these two restorations work best for patients who have just a couple of gaps in their dental lineup.
If you want to learn more about the differences between a bridge and partial denture, keep reading. Your dentist will be the one best able to tell you what you need, though!
The Similarities
Tooth-Colored Materials
These days, false teeth can be made from tooth-colored materials. During your consultation, your dentist will take a close look at the shade of your natural teeth and match your restoration for a natural look.
Seamless Fit
Your dentist will also take impressions of your teeth, regardless of whether you’re getting a bridge or partial denture. This is basically how they get accurate measurements of your mouth, and they’ll use those measurements to make sure your restoration fits perfectly.
Improve Oral Function
At the end of the day, the purpose of a dental bridge and partial denture is to fill the gaps in your smile and improve your oral function. Once you receive your restoration, it’ll be much easier to eat, speak, and clean your teeth like you normally would.
The Differences
Bridges
If you’re missing one tooth or several teeth in a precise row, then you could benefit from a dental bridge. These unique restorations include two parts: a set of crowns and a set of pontics. The crowns actually function as anchors that help keep the restoration stable, and are fitted over top the healthy teeth on either end of your gap. The pontics, meanwhile, are the artificial teeth that will fill in the empty sockets to replace your lost pearly whites.
Partial Dentures
In comparison, partial dentures are more versatile. They can be customized into whatever shape is required to replace a number of missing teeth scattered across your arch. For example, if you need to replace a front tooth that was on the right side of your smile and a molar that was on the left, a partial denture will effectively fill both gaps at once. The artificial teeth on a partial denture are kept in place with a metal clasp that won’t be noticeable when you open your mouth.
Talk to Your Dentist
Still wondering whether you need a bridge or partial denture? That’s okay – you don’t have to know everything about teeth! Your dentist will be able to provide an expert recommendation based on your needs and preferences. Follow their guidance, and you’ll leave the office with the best restoration for your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Brooke Appelhans earned her dental degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, and gained valuable experience treating patients with a variety of needs during her residency at OHSU. Today, she still enjoys helping patients feel better about their smiles. If you need to replace missing teeth, Dr. Appelhans would be glad to tell you whether a bridge or partial denture would be the best solution for you. To contact her office and schedule an appointment, call 503-430-5096.