The Difference Between Partials Dentures and Bridges

Replacing missing teeth can be daunting and sometimes confusing. You may have heard of dental bridges and partial dentures, but what exactly are they and what makes them different? Your Park Ridge dentists, Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas, would like to clarify your options so you can make an educated choice about your restorative dentistry procedure.

What is a Partial Denture?

Partial dentures, also known as removable partial dentures (RPD,) are a set of artificial teeth that rest upon a gum-colored plastic base. The base is held in place with metal clasps that hook onto the natural teeth that are next to the missing teeth. The base sits on the gums, and the metal clasps and base serve to secure the artificial teeth. Unlike dental bridges that remain fixed in the mouth, partials can be removed from the mouth and reinserted. Partials can be made of various types of materials, and our doctors prefer a plastic called Valplast. Using plastic materials provides more elasticity and enhances the appearance while metal-based partials may be more durable but less flexible. Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi will discuss your options with you at the beginning of treatment, but above all, their priority is for you to enjoy replacement teeth that feel and perform like natural teeth.

What is a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are prosthetic teeth that are connected to two crowns on the end of the bridge. These two crowns are called the abutment teeth or anchor teeth, and they uphold and secure the bridge. Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi will prepare the abutment teeth for supporting the crowns by sculpting them to the appropriate shape. They will then place the crowns atop the abutment teeth, and they will cement a prosthetic tooth or teeth in the middle of the ‘bridge.’

About Our Doctors

Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas care about their patients and want them to understand their treatment options when it comes to replacing missing teeth and any other dentistry need. Our doctors draw upon years of extensive training and hands-on experience to provide superb restorative, preventive, and cosmetic dentistry in Park Ridge. They proudly treat patients from Park Ridge and the surrounding Chicago communities. To schedule a consultation, please call (847) 696-1919.