Quickly Replace Missing Teeth with Custom-made Dental Bridges and Partials

Missing even a single tooth can lead to significant oral health issues and dysfunction. Replacing missing teeth with custom-made dental bridges and partials, however, can help patients mitigate the risks associated with prolonged tooth loss (like advanced gum disease and jawbone resorption).

If you are missing one or more teeth, then contact the compassionate team at Villa Rica Family Dental. Our dedicated dentist, Dr. Stacey McDowell, can help you explore all of your tooth-replacement options, including bridges and partial dentures.

Simply call our Villa Rica, GA dentist’s office at (770) 459-4131 to schedule your appointment today!

Dental Bridges and Partials: What’s the difference?

Dental bridges and partials are both high-quality dental restorations that our Villa Rica dentist can use to replace one or more missing teeth. But, when it comes to dental bridges and partials, the primary difference between the two is removability.

A dental bridge is a fixed oral appliance that cannot be removed. A partial denture, however, is a removable appliance that patients can take out at will.

Additionally, partials only come in one, removable option. But, dental bridges come in several options, including:

• Traditional: This type of bridge requires neighboring teeth to keep the bridge stable. Dr. Chang achieves this by cementing dental crowns on adjacent teeth to keep the prosthetic secure.
• Cantilever: Rather than using two neighboring teeth to keep the appliance in place, this type of bridge only uses one neighboring tooth.
• Maryland: Instead of using dental crowns to keep the prosthetic stable, this kind of bridge uses metal or porcelain clasps to secure its position in the mouth.
• Implant-supported: These bridges are, by far, the most stable and long-lasting option to replace one or more missing teeth. Strong, titanium implants keep the restoration permanently and comfortably in place for years to come.

How do I know which is right for me?

For the most part, choosing between a dental bridge or a partial denture boils down to personal preference. However, Dr. Stacey may suggest one appliance over the other depending on your oral-health standing.

Typically, permanent dental bridges are ideal for patients who do not want to bother with the upkeep of removable partials. For some patients, however, a dental bridge may be necessary to prevent dental shifting due to prolonged tooth loss and bone resorption.

If dental shifting isn’t a major concern, then removable partial dentures may be a suitable solution to replace missing teeth. In general, partials require more upkeep than dental bridges, but they tend to outlast bridges by a good five to 10 years.

How do I care for my new dental bridge or partial?

Caring for a dental bridge is relatively simple. Patients need little more than once-daily flossing, twice-daily brushing, and regular dental checkups with our Villa Rica dentist to get the most from their bridges.

Partial dentures require a bit more upkeep, but it’s easy to work denture care into your nightly routine. Patients need only to remove their appliances, gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and dentist-approved cleanser, and store them in room-temperature water before going to sleep.

Regardless of which appliance you choose, Dr. Stacey will thoroughly instruct you on how to properly wear and care for your new prosthetic before sending you home.

Personalized Dental Bridges and Partials in Villa Rica, GA

Don’t let tooth loss hold you back–explore dental bridges and partials with the team at Villa Rica Family Dental today. Patients can give our friendly team a call at (770) 459-4131 to ask questions and book appointments.