Losing one or more teeth can have a long-lasting negative effect on the rest of your oral health. Remaining teeth can shift out of place, your bite can become imbalanced, and the immediate visual effects can impact your confidence and self-esteem. Dental bridges and partial dentures can help patients who’ve lost one or more teeth regain their confidence and protect the future of their dental health.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are designed to replace a single lost tooth, or in many cases up to three lost teeth if they’re adjacent to each other. The bridge’s replacement teeth, or pontics, are supported by dental crowns that are attached to healthy teeth on either side of the gap in your smile (known as abutment teeth). A dental bridge is a fixed prosthesis, meaning once it has been placed, it cannot be removed without the assistance of your dentist.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures, or partials, are recommended for patients who’ve lost several teeth that are not directly next to each other. Like a complete denture, a partial consists of a form-fitting base that follows the shape of your dental ridge and supports your lifelike replacement teeth. Because the pontics are strategically placed to fit between remaining teeth, many partials also rely on additional support from small, comfortably hidden clasps.
Find Out if a Bridge or Partial Is Right for You
If you’ve lost one or more teeth, then find out if a dental bridge or partial denture is the better option for rebuilding your smile. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Okoniewski, call Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI today at (248) 852-1820.
