Dental bridges and dentures are prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth. Dental bridges are fixed prosthetics that literally bridge the gap created by missing teeth, anchored to adjacent natural teeth or implants. Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace multiple missing teeth or entire arches of teeth.

Both restore chewing function, speech, facial support, and improve appearance. The choice between bridges and dentures depends on factors like the number of missing teeth, oral health, bone structure, and personal preferences.

Several types of dental bridges are available:

Traditional bridges: The most common type, using crowns on adjacent teeth to support replacement teeth.

Cantilever bridges: Used when there's only one adjacent tooth available for support.

Maryland bridges: Use metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, requiring minimal tooth preparation.

Implant-supported bridges: Use dental implants as anchors instead of natural teeth, preserving healthy tooth structure.

The best type depends on your specific situation, oral health, and the location of missing teeth.

Different types of dentures include:

Complete dentures: Replace all teeth in an arch and rest on the gums.

Partial dentures: Replace several missing teeth and are held in place by clasps or precision attachments to remaining natural teeth.

Immediate dentures: Placed right after tooth extraction.

Conventional dentures: Made after tissues have healed from extractions.

Implant-supported dentures: Anchored by dental implants for better stability and retention.

Flexible partial dentures: Use thermoplastic materials for improved comfort and aesthetics.

You may need bridges or dentures if you have:

• Multiple missing teeth causing difficulty chewing or speaking
• Facial sagging due to lack of tooth support
• Remaining teeth shifting into empty spaces
• Self-consciousness about your smile

Bridges are typically recommended for replacing 1-4 consecutive missing teeth when adjacent teeth are healthy enough to serve as anchors. Dentures are often recommended when many or all teeth are missing, when bridges aren't feasible, or when cost is a primary concern. Dr. Preston will evaluate your specific situation to recommend the best option.

Getting a dental bridge typically involves multiple appointments:

• Initial consultation: Includes examination, X-rays, and treatment planning
• Tooth preparation: Involves reshaping the anchor teeth by removing enamel to accommodate crowns
• Impressions: Taken to create the custom bridge
• Temporary bridge: Protects prepared teeth while the permanent bridge is made in a lab over 1-2 weeks
• Final appointment: Involves removing the temporary bridge, checking fit and bite of the permanent bridge, and cementing it in place

Some adjustments may be needed to ensure proper fit and comfort.

The denture process involves several steps over multiple appointments:

• Initial consultation: Includes oral examination, X-rays, and treatment planning
• Preparatory work: Any necessary tooth extractions or preparatory work is completed
• Impressions: Taken of your mouth for accurate fit
• Wax try-in: Allows you to see how the dentures will look and feel before final processing
• Final fitting: Involves receiving your completed dentures and making any necessary adjustments
• Follow-up appointments: Ensure proper fit and comfort

The entire process typically takes 4-8 weeks, though immediate dentures can be placed right after extractions.

Dental bridges typically last 10-15 years with proper care, though many last longer. Factors affecting bridge longevity include oral hygiene, regular dental visits, teeth grinding habits, and the health of anchor teeth.

Dentures typically last 5-10 years before needing replacement due to normal wear and changes in mouth shape. Partial dentures may last 5-8 years. Implant-supported bridges and dentures tend to last longer than conventional options.

Regular maintenance, good oral hygiene, and following care instructions help maximize the lifespan of both bridges and dentures.

The procedures for bridges and dentures should not be painful due to local anesthesia during tooth preparation or extractions. After bridge placement, some sensitivity around anchor teeth is normal for a few days.

New dentures often cause initial discomfort, sore spots, and difficulty eating or speaking as your mouth adjusts. This adjustment period typically lasts 1-2 weeks. Denture adhesives and soft liners can help with comfort.

Any persistent pain, severe sore spots, or inability to eat should be addressed by Dr. Preston promptly through adjustments.

Costs for bridges and dentures vary significantly based on:

• Materials used
• Complexity of the case
• Geographic location
• Number of teeth being replaced

Traditional bridges typically cost less than implant-supported bridges. Complete dentures generally cost less than partial dentures or bridges. Premium materials and implant-supported options cost more but offer better function and longevity. Most dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for bridges and dentures. Many dental offices offer financing options or payment plans to help manage costs.

Caring for dental bridges requires special attention:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, paying extra attention to the gum line around the bridge
• Use floss threaders or special bridge floss to clean under the bridge where food particles can accumulate
• Water flossers can help remove debris from hard-to-reach areas
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
• Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge
• Don't use teeth as tools to open packages
• Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential to monitor the bridge and supporting teeth

Proper denture care includes:

• Remove and rinse dentures after eating to remove food particles
• Clean dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner, not regular toothpaste which can be abrasive
• Soak dentures overnight in water or denture solution to keep them moist and maintain their shape
• Handle carefully to avoid dropping and breaking them
• Remove dentures for at least 6-8 hours daily to give your gums a rest
• Clean your mouth, gums, and any remaining natural teeth thoroughly
• Store dentures in water when not wearing them to prevent warping

With dental bridges, you can eat almost normally once you adjust to them. Avoid very hard or sticky foods initially, and chew carefully until comfortable. Bridges restore most chewing function and feel very similar to natural teeth.

With dentures, eating requires an adjustment period. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces, chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth evenly. Gradually introduce harder foods as you become more comfortable. Denture adhesives can improve retention while eating. Some foods like corn on the cob or very sticky items may remain challenging with traditional dentures.

Dental bridges offer several advantages over dentures:

• They're fixed in place and don't need to be removed for cleaning
• Bridges feel more like natural teeth and provide better chewing efficiency
• There's no risk of slipping or falling out during eating or speaking
• Speech is typically more natural with bridges
• They don't cover the roof of your mouth like upper dentures
• Bridges don't require adhesives or special cleaning solutions
• The adjustment period is usually shorter than with dentures

However, bridges require healthy adjacent teeth for support and are more expensive initially.

Dentures offer several advantages over bridges:

• They can replace many or all missing teeth in one appliance
• Dentures don't require alteration of healthy adjacent teeth
• They're generally less expensive initially than bridges
• Dentures can be adjusted or relined as your mouth changes
• They can provide facial support that bridges cannot
• Partial dentures can be designed to replace teeth in multiple areas of the mouth
• Dentures are removable for thorough cleaning
• They can be a good option when remaining teeth are in poor condition

However, they require more maintenance and have a longer adjustment period.

Implant-supported bridges and dentures use dental implants as anchors instead of relying solely on adjacent teeth or gums.

Implant-supported bridges are fixed to implants placed in the jawbone, preserving natural teeth and providing excellent stability.

Implant-supported dentures can be removable (snap-on) or fixed, offering much better retention and chewing function than traditional dentures.

Benefits include: Improved stability, better chewing ability, preservation of jawbone, no slipping or movement, and longer lifespan. The process requires sufficient bone for implant placement and takes longer than conventional options, but provides superior function and comfort.

Adjusting to new dentures takes patience and practice:

• Start with soft foods cut into small pieces and chew slowly using both sides of your mouth
• Practice speaking by reading aloud or talking to family members
• Your speech may sound different initially but will improve with time
• Use denture adhesive if recommended for better retention
• Expect some soreness and irritation initially - Contact Dr. Preston if sore spots persist
• Remove dentures for several hours daily to rest your gums
• Stay hydrated as dentures can affect saliva flow
• Follow-up appointments are important for adjustments and ensuring proper fit

Both bridges and dentures can often be repaired if damaged.

Bridge repairs: Minor issues like loose crowns may be recemented by Dr. Preston. Cracked or broken bridge components usually require replacement of the entire bridge.

Denture repairs: Can be repaired for issues like cracks, broken teeth, or loose clasps. Simple repairs might be completed in the dental office, while complex repairs may need to be sent to a lab.

Emergency denture repair kits are available for temporary fixes, but professional repair is always recommended. Never attempt to adjust or repair bridges or dentures yourself as this can cause further damage.