Tooth loss can greatly impact the quality of your daily life because it hinders your ability to eat and speak on top of leaving a visible gap in your grin. This is true whether you’ve lost one or more teeth consecutively. Thankfully, your dentist has multiple solutions to restore functionality and enhance your appearance, like dental bridges and partial dentures. Both treatments can refill your smile so you can once again enjoy meals and conversations with family and friends. How do you know, then, which one is best for you? Keep reading to learn more about each option to help you decide!
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a permanent oral appliance that can close the gap if you’ve lost one or several pearly whites in a row. They include the correct number of pontics (artificial teeth) arranged between dental crowns at both ends, which will fit over your existing teeth to anchor your restoration in place. They can be color-matched to your grin so that they fit in seamlessly, and usually last 5 to 15+ years with the right care.
There are two types, and they are:
- Traditional bridge. To place a traditional dental bridge, your provider must remove some of the enamel from the neighboring teeth on either side of the gap. This allows the dental crowns on each side of the bridge to fit over them properly.
- Implant bridge. The biggest difference with this type is that instead of attaching to surrounding teeth, your dentist will surgically insert support poles into your jaw. Once your mouth has healed, these will support your restoration, instead.
What are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are generally more appropriate if you’ve lost multiple teeth. They consist of the correct number of pontics embedded in an acrylic, gum-colored base. They’re equipped with metal hooks that clip onto your remaining pearly whites for stability. These can anchor to your teeth whatever condition they may be in, making this a convenient method for those with other dental problems, like tooth decay. They can also be customized to reflect the shade of your natural grin and often last 5 to 10 years.
How Do I Know Which Is the Right Choice for Me?
The best way to decide which treatment works best for your unique circumstances is to consult with your dentist. They’ll examine your mouth first and then make recommendations based on their findings. Whichever way you choose, you’ll soon have a newly restored smile so that you can once again make the most of each day!
About the Practice
At Exceptional Dentistry & Sedation Center, patients benefit from a team of Ritz Carlton-trained experts who provide a full range of services under one roof. Their friendly approach is combined with state-of-the-art technology to provide a truly one-of-a-kind dental experience, and they diligently work together to exceed even the highest patient expectations. They are board-certified to provide IV sedation in addition to oral sedation so that no matter what the procedure, you’ll feel calm and relaxed the entire time. If you’d like a consultation, you’re welcome to request one on the website or by calling (352) 332-6725.
