Are you feeling insecure about your missing teeth? Do you wish to restore your pearly smile and improve your oral health? Well, there is good news as the field of dentistry provides you with two popular options: False Teeth vs Bridge. At Capitol Square Dental, we offer both services to our patients looking to fill in the gap from missing teeth.
Let us delve deep into false teeth and dental bridges and explain what they are, discuss their benefits, and how they compare regarding durability, lifespan, and impact on oral health. Keep on reading to find out “False Teeth vs Bridge: Which is Better?”
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are fixed dental prosthetics that are used to replace one or more missing teeth. It bridges the gap between two natural teeth or dental implants. They consist of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are anchored to adjacent teeth called abutments. Dental bridges are specially made to resemble the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth and provide a seamless and functional restoration.
Types of Dental Bridges
The common types of dental bridges are:
Traditional Bridges:
These are the most commonly used bridges with artificial teeth held in place by dental crowns on adjacent natural teeth. They are quite sturdy and work excellent for those missing one or more teeth in a row.
Cantilever Bridges:
A Cantilever bridge is used when you have a missing tooth, but there’s only one adjacent tooth next to the gap. The bridge is used to attach the artificial tooth to the adjacent natural tooth.
Maryland Bonded Bridges:
These bridges are quite gentle on neighboring teeth. They use metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of nearby teeth to hold the artificial tooth in place. They’re commonly used for front teeth replacements.
Implant-Supported Bridges:
If you are missing several teeth in a row, especially molars, your dentist will most likely recommend an implant-supported bridge. It involves the placement of dental implants in the jawbone to support the bridge instead of relying solely on neighboring teeth.
What are False teeth?
False teeth are commonly known as Dentures. These dental appliances are easy to remove and are used to replace your missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. These false teeth are custom-made for everyone according to fit each individual’s mouth and resemble their natural teeth.
False Teeth vs Bridge: A Comparative Analysis
| Aspect | False Teeth (Dentures) | Dental Bridges |
| Ideal For | Multiple missing teeth or full arches | One or a few missing teeth in a row |
| Jawbone Health | It can be worn even with significant bone loss | Requires sufficient healthy adjacent teeth or implants for support |
| Stability and Comfort | It may require adjustments for comfort and stability | Offers stable and permanent tooth replacement |
| Durability and Maintenance | Require regular removal for cleaning and maintenance | Relatively low maintenance and can last longer with proper care |
| Cost Consideration | Generally more affordable upfront | Initially costlier but may be a long-term investment |
| Aesthetic Concerns | Can replace an entire arch of teeth, restoring smile aesthetics | Offers a natural-looking replacement for individual missing teeth |
| Preservation of Adjacent Teeth | Do not affect adjacent teeth | Requires alteration of adjacent teeth for placement |
Replace your Missing Teeth
Still wondering, “False Teeth vs Bridge: Which is Better?” Well, if you have to choose between false teeth (dentures) and dental bridges, your decision must consider key factors such as the number of missing teeth, jawbone health, stability, comfort, durability, cost, aesthetic concerns, and impact on adjacent teeth. By considering these factors, along with advice from your dentist, you will be able to make a better decision regarding your dental needs and preferences.
Ready to make the right choice for your dental health? Book an appointment online today at Capitol Square Dental, Columbus, Ohio. For new patients, call us at (614) 434-8904. At the same time, current patients can book an appointment by calling (614) 461-4600. Let’s work together to achieve your best smile!
FAQ
False teeth vs Bridges: Which is better for multiple missing teeth?
Dentures are better for multiple missing teeth or full arches, while dental bridges are ideal for one or a few missing teeth in a row.
How long do dentures and dental bridges last?
Dentures can last up to 5-7 years, while dental bridges can last 10-15 years or longer.
False teeth vs Bridges: What affects the adjacent teeth?
Dentures do not impact adjacent teeth, while dental bridges require alteration of adjacent teeth for placement.
Can dentures or dental bridges be repaired if damaged?
Both false teeth and bridges can be repaired, but the success rate depends on the extent of damage.
Do false teeth or dental bridges affect speech and eating habits?
Initially, false teeth and bridges affect your speech and eating habits until you get used to the new prosthetic.