Two of the most common options for replacing missing teeth are partial dentures and dental bridges. To assist you in deciding which method is right for you, the professionals here at The Town Dentist—serving locales throughout Bergen County, NJ, including Englewood, Ridgewood, Hackensack, and Paramus—have provided a rundown of the two choices, with pros, cons and factors to consider for each.
If you need dentures, bridgework, or any other dental services in Englewood, NJ or the surrounding area, do not hesitate to contact The Town Dentist today to discuss treatment options, scheduling, financing, or any other concerns you have. We would love to have you as one of our patients.
An Overview of Dental Bridges – Englewood Dental Bridges at The Town Dentist
Dental bridges are non-removable and can replace one tooth or multiple teeth. The prosthetic is attached to your neighboring natural teeth or to dental implants – creating a ‘bridge’ over the gap created by the missing teeth. This restores functioning as well as the appearance of your teeth.
In most cases, patients will find bridges more comfortable than partial dentures. Bridges are generally more affordable than implants.
Varieties of Dental Bridges
Patients choosing dental bridges have a number of options available to them:
- Traditional bridges. These feature crowns created for teeth on either side of the missing tooth (or teeth), with an artificial tooth (also called a pontic) placed in between them.
- Resin-bonded bridges. Also called ‘Maryland’ bridges, these bond porcelain or metal frames to the back of your adjacent teeth.
- Cantilever bridges. These are utilized when only one side of the missing tooth or teeth has adjacent teeth.
- Implant-supported bridges. These are anchored by dental implants (which require additional work), rather than using natural teeth as supports. They offer enhanced stability compared to other types of bridges, and may be necessary for some patients, depending on the condition of their neighboring teeth.
Pros of Dental Bridges – Paramus Dental Bridges at The Town Dentist
Dental bridges offer a number of benefits over other choices. One is that they are fixed in place, making them more secure than partial dentures. Bridges are also made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth – giving you a realistic-looking smile. And bridges restore your full chewing and speaking abilities, bringing back full oral functioning.
Factors to Consider with Dental Bridges
One consideration with dental bridges is that your adjacent teeth need to be prepared for their installation by having some enamel removed. This is to accommodate the crowns, which can impact the structure of your teeth.
Your bridges will last anywhere from five years to a decade and a half, with good oral hygiene and regular follow-up visits key to long-lasting results.
An Overview of Partial Dentures – Dentures Englewood NJ
Partial dentures are also used to replace one or multiple missing teeth. A removable option, they are made of replacement teeth and attached to a base matched to the color of your gums. A metal frame holds everything in place.
A more affordable option than bridges, partial dentures are also less stable and can require considerable maintenance.
Varieties of Partial Dentures
There are several types of partial dentures to choose from:
- Acrylic partials. Also called flippers, these have a pink acrylic base and use metal clasps to attach to your natural teeth. Many patients choose flippers as a temporary fix.
- Metal partials. Made of a metal base and acrylic teeth, these partials are particularly durable and can be adjusted in the future if more teeth need to be replaced.
- Flexible partials. These are made of thin plastic and have gum-colored clasps, helping them blend in with your mouth. Patients find these partials more comfortable than other choices.
Benefits of Partial Dentures
With partial dentures, you do not need to make any changes to your existing teeth, keeping their structure intact. Partial dentures are a more affordable choice, and are versatile, able to replace multiple, nonconsecutive missing teeth, even in different areas of the mouth.
Things to Consider with Partial Dentures
It may take some time to become used to dentures, which can be uncomfortable at first. And because partial dentures are removable, they may need periodic adjustments to stay firmly in place. They might also move slightly when you are speaking or eating.
How to Choose Between Partial Dentures vs. Bridge
One factor to consider in choosing between partial dentures and dental bridges is how many missing teeth you need replaced and where in your mouth they are. Bridges are a more effective solution for replacing consecutive teeth, whereas partial dentures can replace several missing teeth in different areas of your mouth.
Another factor to think about is the condition of your adjacent teeth. The teeth next to the gap being filled have to be strong and healthy enough to support a bridge. If they are not, partial dentures are likely a more workable option.
A third consideration is price. Bridges provide better function and look better, but the upfront cost of partial dentures is much less.
Finally, in deciding between the two options, consider whether partial dentures (which are removable and need to be cleaned) or a bridge (secured in your mouth) is more compatible with your lifestyle.
Partial Dental Bridge Cost Information
The cost of a dental bridge will depend on what materials are used, the condition of your teeth, and your overall oral health. If dental implants are required to support a bridge, the cost will increase considerably.
The Town Dentist offers a variety of financing options and can assist with determining insurance coverage. Call our office today to discuss or to set up an appointment.
Contact The Town Dentist Today to Discuss Treatment Options or Set Up an Appointment
The Town Dentist serves patients from all over Bergen County, including Englewood, Paramus, and Hackensack. We offer compassionate and friendly care, with care plans designed in collaboration with our patients and individualized to their needs.
We also use only the latest in dental treatments and technologies. Cutting edge care with a smile – on our faces as well as yours.