A partial denture is a dental
prosthodontic appliance (artificial tooth or teeth) that can be removed from
the mouth and cleaned like conventional dentures. Partial dentures are often referred to as
removable partial dentures or RPD’s.
Partial dentures are one option available to replace missing teeth. Artificial teeth are added to an acrylic base
with metal clasps that hook and fit around existing teeth located on either
side of the missing teeth. These clasps help to stabilize the partial denture
and hold it in place.
A dental bridge, however, is different
from a partial denture. It is another
option available to replace missing teeth.
A dental bridge is a dental prosthetic device that is permanently
anchored in the mouth and is also referred to as a fixed partial denture. A dental bridge literally bridges the gap
where one or more teeth are missing. Teeth
adjacent to the gap are prepared and capped crowns and then the replacement
teeth are attached to those crowns to form a bridge.
While
conventional fixed dental bridges are highly effective in restoring oral health
to the mouth, they do require the natural teeth surrounding the gap to be
trimmed down and capped with crowns that will support the bridge. Implant-supported bridges are an ideal
alternative for some patients who have sufficient jawbone density. Dental implants are surgically placed in the
jawbone, where they integrate into the bone and can be used to support the bridge
without the need for alteration of natural, healthy teeth.
Both
partial dentures and dental bridges are options for replacing missing teeth. Every
patient is unique. To learn if you are a
good candidate for a partial denture or a dental bridge, with or without dental
implants, schedule an initial appointment with Dr. Gulbransen, a trained
specialist and Prosthodontist. After
evaluating your mouth, Dr. Gulbransen will advise you of all the options
available to you to restore your beautiful smile.
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