Losing multiple permanent teeth can detract from your daily quality of life in a few different ways. For example, you might struggle to bite or chew your favorite foods, develop a lisp or slur when trying to pronounce certain words, or feel self-conscious about the changes to your appearance.
Many dentists offer options for rebuilding after tooth loss, such as dental bridges or partial dentures, which can both be customized to look and feel as lifelike as possible. So how do you know which treatment is right for you? Continue reading to learn more about them to help determine the best way to restore your smile!
How Do Dental Bridges Work?
Dental bridges are oral appliances that contain the required number of pontics, or replacement teeth, between two dental crowns. They can be cemented over healthy abutment teeth on either side of the gap in your grin, or to specially placed dental implants if you don’t have sufficiently healthy enamel to support them.
These are usually made from resilient ceramic that is customized to resemble your natural enamel, and restore anywhere between 1 and 4 consecutively missing teeth to close wider gaps in your grin. They’re usually not meant to be removed, so patients can brush and floss them in the mouth, though this sometimes requires special floss threaders or an oral irrigator.
How Do Partial Dentures Work?
Partial dentures can rebuild several teeth that went missing sporadically throughout your arch, and usually have a gum-colored acrylic base containing metal clasps that can clip to healthy teeth in your mouth to remain in place throughout the day. They also typically contain replacement teeth made of ceramic, such as porcelain, that resist chips, cracks, and stains, and can be used for daily biting, chewing, and speaking.
However, unlike bridges, these are generally meant to be easily removed and reinserted for cleanings twice daily.
Which Treatment is Right for Me?
Both of these options are carefully crafted to resemble your natural teeth for beautiful results that boost your confidence and are durable enough to support basic daily tasks, like enjoying meals and conversations. But only your dentist can make a professional recommendation based on your unique dental condition and circumstances.
Once your provider examines your teeth and gums and discusses your smile goals with you, they can devise a personalized treatment plan to help improve your mouth’s function and appearance, regardless of how many teeth are missing.
If you’re unsure whether you need partial dentures or a dental bridge, contact your dentist to schedule an appointment.
About the Practice
Patients at White Clay Dental Associates benefit from two outstanding dentists with decades of experience. Dr. Bond and Dr. Ganfield are passionate about providing a full menu of services, including dental bridges and dentures, to meet your unique needs under one roof. Their expertise, paired with advanced technology, yields beautiful, reliable results meant to last. If you need to rebuild your smile after tooth loss, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (302) 731-4225.