Dentures and Bridges 101

Patients seeking replacement for missing teeth have many options for completing their smiles. Among the dental restorations frequently utilized are dentures and bridges. While these oral appliances are similar in some ways, the unique differences of each treatment can help meet patients’ differing restoration needs.

The Differences between Dentures and Bridges

Full dentures are recommended for patients who need complete arch replacements. If there are healthy natural teeth left in the arch, partial dentures may be recommended. Complete dentures are held in place by denture adhesives, while partial dentures utilize a retainer-like attachment system to stay in place and can be removed for cleaning. Both types of dentures are removable for maintenance and can last anywhere from 7-10 years with proper care. 

In contrast, porcelain fixed bridges are used for patients who are missing only one or more teeth in concentrated groups. Unlike dentures, bridges use the surrounding teeth to support the restoration and are permanently fixed with dental bonding materials.

Bridges use two crowns, placed on the natural teeth adjacent to the gap left by missing teeth. Between the crowns are pontics, which act as replacements for missing teeth. 

Like dentures, there are different types of bridges to meet diverse needs. The three most popular types of dental bridges include:

• Traditional bridges: utilize two abutment teeth on either side of the gap to support the pontic in between.
• Cantilever bridges: Are used when abutment teeth are only on one side of the gap. Cantilever bridges are usually recommended when only one tooth is missing.
• Maryland bonded bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridge, this type of restoration uses a metal foundation. Metal wings extend from the prosthetic and are bonded to the adjacent teeth.

Receiving Bridges and Dentures|

When being fitted for bridges, the supporting abutment teeth are contoured to allow for the connecting crown. Impressions of the dentition are then made and the models are sent to a dental lab to create your bridge. In the meantime, Dr. Colquitt will place a temporary bridge to close the gaps in your smile until the permanent bridge is ready to be placed.

Once ready, the permanent bridge is cemented in place, leaving you with natural looking smile and restored dental function.

When fitted for dentures, patients have several options. Individuals who need extractions for damaged teeth can have dentures made beforehand, so that they are ready for placement immediately following extraction. Patients can also wait until after their teeth have been extracted to have their dentures fitted. This method is often recommended, as the dentition is allowed to heal before fitting, meaning that fewer final adjustments will need to be made.

For more information on dentures and bridges, contact Dr. Jeff Colquitt at our Dallas dental practice to schedule your complimentary consultation and learn more about which restorative treatment is right for you.

Dental Implants vs. Bridges and Dentures

If you’re missing a tooth and need a restoration, it’s important to know the benefits of each restorative method available to you. At our Dallas cosmetic dental office, Dr. Jeff Colquitt offers patients a variety of therapies to replace missing teeth, such as permanent dental implants and bridges, as well as removable full and partial dentures. 

Expectations for Long-Term Care

Bridges are bonded in place to surrounding teeth and dental implants are surgically installed to bond with bone in the jaw. Unlike full and partial dentures, bridges and dental implants are not removable. Bridges can last many years before needing repair or replacement, and dental implants can last a life-time with proper care.

As removable appliances made of either acrylic or porcelain and metal, full and partial dentures may sometimes need repair or adjustment over their lifetimes. For patients who are interested in swapping one restoration for another, dental implants can also be used to permanently support prosthetics for any number of missing teeth, thereby replacing removable dentures or traditional dental bridges. 

Benefits for Oral Health

Dental implants benefit overall oral health by protecting bone volume and stimulating tissue like a natural tooth root would. Implants are also an excellent choice for improved biting and chewing function, and therefore digestive health.

Dental bridges are also able to improve oral function when patients are missing one or more teeth. Because bridges replace lost teeth with a prosthetic that is securely bonded in place, patients do not have to worry about loose dental appliances inhibiting oral function.

If you are missing all of your natural teeth in an arch, a full denture can provide you with improved chewing power and allow your smile to look full and complete.

Comfort and Aesthetic

The appearance of your restoration over its lifetime can depend on materials used. All-porcelain or tooth-colored materials tend to keep their natural appearance for the longest amount of time and are ideal for teeth in your smile zone.  Dental bridges and dental implants prove to provide patients with a comfortable treatment experience, as they are meant to be permanent restorations and remain securely in place.

Some patients with full dentures may require occasional readjustments to ensure the highest level of comfort. Dr. Colquitt is able to expertly tailor the fit and feel of your dentures so that you can enjoy comfortable teeth replacements that look their best.

Dental implants, bridges, and dentures are an investment in your health, wellness, and the appearance of your smile. If you have questions about what restoration will work for you, please call our Dallas cosmetic dentist, Dr. Jeff Colquitt, for more information.