Bridges Vs. Dentures — Which Is Right For You?
Missing teeth can be unsightly, uncomfortable, and difficult to live with. They can change the shape of the face, and, most importantly, they pose a serious oral health risk. Bridges and dentures are two great solutions to the problem of missing teeth.
What is a Bridge?
A dental bridge is an oral prosthetic that replaces one or more missing teeth. It’s called a bridge because it is attached to teeth on either side of the gap and creates a “bridge.” A bridge consists of:
- Abutment Teeth: These are the natural teeth on either side of the gap that support the bridge
- Pontics: The artificial teeth that fill the gap left by missing teeth
- Framework: The underlying structure that holds the pontics in place
What Are the Benefits of a Bridge?
- A functional bite: A bridge restores your ability to chew and speak properly
- A beautiful smile: A bridge provides a natural-looking smile, enhancing your overall appearance and boosting self-confidence.
- Keep everything in place: Replacing missing teeth helps prevent your other teeth from shifting out of alignment.
- Long lasting: With proper care, a dental bridge can last for many years.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable oral prosthetics that replace missing teeth. They can be complete (replacing all teeth in an arch) or partial (replacing several missing teeth) and are customized to fit your mouth.
What Are the Benefits of Dentures?
- Making sure you look great: Missing teeth can alter the shape and appearance of your face. Dentures help restore facial structure and appearance, making you look younger and more vibrant
- A functional bite: Dentures allow for better chewing and speaking, reducing discomfort caused by missing teeth
- Affordability: Dentures are often more cost effective than other dental restoration options
- Non-invasive option: Unlike bridges, which require alteration of adjacent teeth, dentures do not require invasive procedures
Bridges vs. Dentures
When deciding between a dental bridge and dentures, there are several factors that come into play:
- Number of Missing Teeth: A bridge may be a suitable option if you are missing one or more teeth. However, if you’ve lost all the teeth in an arch, a denture will be more appropriate
- Bone Health: Dental implants can support a bridge if you have sufficient jawbone density. If bone loss has occurred, dentures may be a better choice
- Personal Preference: Some patients prefer the stability of a bridge, while others appreciate the flexibility and ease of removal dentures offer
- Dentist Recommendation: The best way to determine which choice is best for you is to come in for a consultation, during which we can evaluate your current oral health and choose the right solution for your smile
If you are missing teeth and want to know about the options available to you, contact us at our office located in Denton, MD, and we can help you schedule a consultation.
