What’s the Difference Between a Partial Denture and a Bridge?

If you've experienced tooth loss, you may be thinking about tooth replacement options. Dental bridges and partial dentures are among the solutions available, and both types of restorations provide dependable function and improve aesthetics. The option that’s right for you depends on individual circumstances.

Sabrina E. Mickel, DDS, in Beachwood, Ohio, is proud to offer a full range of restorative services, including partial dentures, fixed bridges, and dental implants. While bridges and partial dentures seem similar, we explain the differences between the two here to help you understand your tooth replacement options.

Benefits of partial dentures

Partial dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace one or more missing teeth. They’re typically made from a combination of metal and acrylic materials and are custom-fitted to your mouth. 

Partial dentures consist of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, which is held in place by metal clasps that attach to your natural teeth on either side of the tooth gap. The following are some benefits and things to consider:

• Affordability: Partial dentures are generally more affordable
• Noninvasive: Partial dentures don’t require permanent alterations
• Flexibility: They can be easily adjusted or replaced

Additionally, partial dentures are easy to maintain. You can remove them for cleaning, making oral hygiene simple and convenient.

Considerations for partial dentures

Partial dentures, while effective, may not offer the same stability as fixed options like bridges or implants. They sometimes shift or move while you’re eating or speaking, which can be frustrating. Additionally, getting used to wearing partial dentures can take some time, and you might experience minor irritation initially. 

Although modern partial dentures are designed to look natural, they may not always perfectly match the appearance of your surrounding teeth and gums. This is something to consider if a seamless look is your top priority.

Benefits of dental bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration. Unlike partial dentures, bridges aren’t removable. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, anchored in place by dental crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or by dental implants.

• Stability: Bridges are fixed in place 
• Aesthetics: Dental bridges provide a seamless and natural look
• Functionality: Bridges more effectively restore chewing and speaking

Additionally, with proper care, dental bridges can last up to 15 years when well taken care of, making them a durable solution for tooth replacement.

Considerations for dental bridges

When considering dental bridges, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. The cost can be higher than that of partial dentures, especially if dental implants are involved. The process also requires permanent changes to adjacent natural teeth to fit the crowns. 

Additionally, while bridges offer excellent stability, they require more maintenance than partial dentures to ensure their longevity.

Choosing the right option for you

When deciding between a partial denture and a dental bridge, there are several factors to consider, including the number of missing teeth, the health of your remaining teeth, and your personal preferences. 

Consulting with a dental professional like Dr. Mickel is essential to determine your best option. Dr. Mickel evaluates your oral health, discusses your needs and preferences, and helps you make an informed decision.

Both partial dentures and dental bridges offer effective solutions for replacing missing teeth, each with its own set of benefits and considerations. 

Our team is committed to providing personalized care and guidance to help you achieve optimal oral health. To learn more about how we can help you replace your lost teeth, contact us today to schedule a consultation.