What Is The Difference Between Partial Dentures And Dental Bridges?

Dental Bridges Versus Partial Dentures

Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed appliance that fills in the gap where one or two natural teeth would usually be. When a person loses one or two adult teeth, a bridge can be created to hold the place of these teeth and appear as the natural tooth so there is not a gap where the tooth or teeth once was. Dental bridges use crowns on either side of the false tooth to secure it into place (and some new forms of dental bridges use only one anchoring tooth). These crowns are permanently secured onto the anchoring teeth so that the dental bridge is securely held in place. Because the false tooth is connected to the crowns, there is no gap on either side of the dental bridge. This means that you will be unable to floss between your false tooth and the teeth it is anchored to, although you will not need to. You will, however, need to floss underneath the dental bridge.

Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are also used to take the place of a few missing teeth, but the biggest difference between partial dentures and dental bridges is that partial dentures are removable. Whereas dental bridges are permanently secured to the teeth, partial dentures stay in place using comfortable clasps that hook onto your remaining natural teeth. Partial dentures are also different from dental bridges because partial dentures have both artificial teeth and an artificial gum, whereas dental bridges are only teeth. Partial dentures can come in both regular and flexible dentures and their clasps can either be made to match the gums or to be clear so they aren’t seen.

Which One Is Right For Me?
Both of these options look completely natural and can help you chew, speak, and smile. Before you choose to get dental bridges or partial dentures, consider if you are interested in a removable option or something permanent. Some people prefer a partial denture since it is easier to clean and you don’t have to fuss with getting dental floss under the dental bridge. This can be especially important for people with poor coordination or arthritis. Other people prefer dental bridges since they only need flossing and brushing and no additional care. Another important factor is your oral and tooth health. If you are likely to lose more teeth in the near future, your denturist may recommend partial dentures. If you are at very low risk for losing more teeth, for example if you lost your teeth due to an accident as opposed to jaw, gum, or tooth health, either option is adequate.
 

Partial Dentures In Calgary

If you are missing some natural teeth and you are considering partial dentures, visit Future Smiles Denture Clinic. Our Calgary denturist can examine your dental health and recommend partial dentures, a dental bridge, or flexible dentures. When you get your dentures from Future Smiles Denture Clinic, the first year of adjustments and repairs is FREE so that your dentures fit comfortably and naturally. To speak with the team at Future Smiles Denture Clinic in Calgary, you can visit the SW Calgary Denture clinic on Macleod or the NE Calgary location in Coral Springs. To book a free consultation with our Calgary Denturist, call 1-403-475-0016 or fill out the online contact form.

FAQ

Q: Can you eat normally with partial dentures?
A: Because you are learning to eat with new teeth, we are inclined to say that no, you will not eat exactly the same way you did before. The good news is that a properly made and fit denture will allow you to enjoy most of the same foods that you did prior to getting them. It will take some getting used to, but practice makes perfect. To learn more about how to adjust to eating with partial dentures, read Eating With Partial Or Complete Dentures.

Q: How much does a consultation cost?
A: Future Smiles Denture Clinic offers free consultations with our Calgary Denturist!

Q: Will I need to get teeth pulled for dentures?
A: This varies depending on whether you are getting a full, or partial set, the shape of your mouth, the health of your gums, and the state of existing teeth remaining. Your Calgary denturist will be able to confirm whether or not you need teeth pulled after a thorough examination of your mouth.