Bridges and Dentures

When teeth are missing, dental bridges and dentures are reliable restorative solutions that help restore function, comfort, and appearance. Each option serves a different purpose depending on your oral health needs and lifestyle.

Dental Bridges

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It fills the space left by missing teeth using artificial teeth that are supported by nearby natural teeth or dental implants.

Types of Dental Bridges

• Traditional Bridges – Supported by crowns placed on the adjacent teeth

• Cantilever Bridges – Used when only one neighboring tooth is available for support

• Implant-Supported Bridges – Anchored securely to dental implants

Benefits of Dental Bridges

• Restores proper chewing and speech

• Prevents surrounding teeth from shifting

• Maintains facial structure

• Provides a natural-looking, permanent solution

Considerations

• Adjacent teeth may need preparation

• Requires consistent oral hygiene

• Longevity depends on proper care and maintenance

Dentures

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They can be used to replace some or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw.

Types of Dentures

• Full Dentures – Replace all teeth in an arch

• Partial Dentures – Replace several missing teeth and attach to natural teeth

• Implant-Supported Dentures – Secured with implants for added stability

Benefits of Dentures

• Restores chewing and speaking ability

• Supports facial appearance

• Improves overall smile aesthetics

• Often a more affordable option than full implant treatments

Considerations

• May take time to adjust

• Requires daily removal and cleaning

• Bone loss may continue over time

• Periodic adjustments or replacement may be needed

Key Differences Between Bridges and Dentures

• Fixed vs. Removable: Bridges are permanently fixed, while dentures are removable

• Extent of Replacement: Bridges replace one or several missing teeth; dentures can replace many or all teeth

• Support: Bridges rely on nearby teeth or implants, while dentures rest on the gums or implants

Which Option Is Right for You?

The ideal solution depends on factors such as the number of missing teeth, jawbone health, condition of remaining teeth, personal preferences, and budget.

A consultation at Dundas Dental Studio allows our dentists to evaluate your oral health and recommend the most suitable tooth replacement option for you.

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