Partial dentures and dental bridges are two common restorative dentistry choices to repair your smile and oral functionality after losing one or more teeth. While both of these dental prosthetics replace missing teeth, they differ in their design, function, and suitability for various situations.
If you’re missing one, some, or all of your teeth, then it’s time to call Dental Care of Lombard. Our compassionate team can help you find solutions that restore your smile and quality of life. Contact our dental clinic in Lombard, IL, at (630) 629-5700 now!
After tooth loss, replacing missing teeth is crucial. Otherwise, continued tooth loss and jaw bone degradation are real threats. In this blog, we explore the differences between partial dentures and dental bridges to help you replace missing teeth efficiently and effectively.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures (sometimes called RPDs, or removable partial dentures) are a traditional and versatile option for replacing missing teeth. Here are some key characteristics of partial dentures:
Removability
Dental experts conveniently design partial dentures to be removable. This means you can take them out for cleaning and sleeping. As a result, partials are relatively easy to maintain.
Construction
Partials consist of a metal or plastic framework that holds the artificial teeth. The framework may have clips or hooks that attach to adjacent natural teeth, providing stability.
Versatility
Partial dentures can replace multiple missing teeth in various locations in the mouth. This means that a dentist can customize them to fit around your remaining teeth.
Cost-Effective
Compared to some other tooth replacement options, partial dentures are generally more affordable upfront.
Non-invasive
Typically, partials do not require major dental work on the adjacent natural teeth. Subsequently, these appliances are often a less invasive option.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges, on the other hand, are a fixed prosthetic option. Dentists call them “bridges” because they close the gap left by missing teeth. Here are the key characteristics of dental bridges:
Fixed
To maintain their position in the mouth, bridges permanently attach to neighboring teeth or dental implants. This means that patients are unable to remove them without the help of a dentist.
Stability
Since bridges are fixed in the mouth, they provide excellent stability and function. In most cases, they feel and operate just like natural teeth.
Aesthetic
Dental bridges can provide a natural appearance. Dentists can custom-make them to match the color and shape of your existing teeth.
Durability
Because bridges are permanent, they often last longer than partials. This means that patients may get more bang for their buck with dental bridges.
Custom-Made Bridges and Partial Dentures in Lombard, IL
Both partial dentures and dental bridges have their advantages and disadvantages. However, partials are best for intermittently missing teeth, whereas bridges are better for missing teeth in a row.
If you’d like to discuss your tooth replacement options with a top-ranking dentist in Lombard, IL, contact Dr. Julie Glud today. You can schedule appointments at Dental Care of Lombard online here, or you can call our team at (630) 629-5700 to get started now.
