OPTIONS FOR TOOTH REPLACEMENT: FALSE TEETH (DENTURES) VERSUS BRIDGES

Restorative dental care is a special category of dentistry that Dr. David Lamothe at Smyrna Dental prides himself in providing to new and loyal patients. Located near Vinings, Georgia, Smyrna Dental offers many treatments for patients interested in improving the health, beauty, or function of their smile.

Dr. Lamothe works closely with individuals to help them rebuild their teeth or gums after trauma or disease. When patients have lost teeth due to decay, injury, or periodontal disease, they have options at our office to fill in those gaps, including dentures and dental bridges. However, many patients have trouble making an appropriate choice. Patients who are candidates for “false teeth” or bridges often wonder about the best alternative for their situation.

False teeth (dentures) and bridges both provide a way to replace missing teeth. They are natural-looking and offer improved function. They can also help keep the existing teeth from shifting out of place due to gaps from missing teeth.

Below are some of the differences between dentures and dental bridges:

Dentures are generally used to replace several teeth or all the teeth in the upper or lower dental arches or jaws. Dental bridges typically replace a single tooth or a few scattered teeth.
Dentures are removable. Partial dentures connect to remaining teeth via specialized clasps or attachments. Complete dentures are held in place via natural suction and denture adhesive products. Bridges are “fixed” and non-removable. They are held in place by anchor teeth on either side of the replacement tooth (or “pontic”).
Dentures must be cleaned and soaked as directed by our dental team. Since bridges are secured to other teeth, they are primarily cared for like natural teeth. We can recommend special floss or interdental brushes to effectively clean underneath the bridge.
Dentures may require an adjustment period. So, patients get used to eating and speaking with them and become accustomed to properly cleaning their new teeth. Bridges are placed to function like natural teeth from the get-go.
Modern so-called “false teeth” are made from advanced, quality materials. Dentures look like natural teeth, not fake or plastic. The same notion applies to bridges. They are designed to look indistinguishable from neighboring natural teeth.

Contact us today at (678) 374-3764 to discuss the best option for you! Bridges, partials, or full dentures may be more appropriate, based on the number, location, and health of any existing teeth.