{"id":252,"date":"2022-01-24T21:54:00","date_gmt":"2022-01-24T21:54:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.harrisonburgsmiles.com\/blog\/?p=252"},"modified":"2025-06-17T05:45:52","modified_gmt":"2025-06-17T05:45:52","slug":"what-is-the-difference-between-partial-dentures-and-dental-bridges","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.harrisonburgsmiles.com\/blog\/2022\/01\/24\/what-is-the-difference-between-partial-dentures-and-dental-bridges\/","title":{"rendered":"What\u2019s the Difference Between Partial Dentures and Dental Bridges?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Do you have missing teeth? If so, then you know firsthand how having an incomplete smile can affect your quality of life. Not only does it impact your bite, but your speech and appearance as well. You might be researching options for replacing teeth. Partial dentures<\/a> and dental bridges are two excellent ways to restore your smile \u2013 but how do you know which option makes the most sense for you? Find out by learning from your dentist in Harrisonburg about the difference between partial dentures and dental bridges<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is a Dental Bridge?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a restoration that\u2019s permanently attached to your mouth. It\u2019s called a \u201cbridge\u201d because it quite literally bridges the gap between your existing teeth. In most cases, it\u2019s secured by being bonded or cemented to neighboring teeth. A typical bridge is made of three components: an artificial tooth flanked by two dental crowns, which fully encase neighboring teeth. But what happens if you have multiple teeth missing? Well, in that case, bridges can be attached to dental implants. Most restorations are crafted from tooth-colored dental porcelain, meaning you can enjoy durable and natural-looking results!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is a Partial Denture?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It is a removable appliance that has one or more false teeth on it. Usually, it\u2019s either made up of plastic or a mixture of metal and plastic. The denture is designed to clip onto the remaining teeth that surround the area where you have a gap. Although you have the option to choose between the plastic or combination denture, the latter is ideal \u2013 and will cost more \u2013 because it reduces the risk of damage to your surrounding teeth. However, you should still ask your dentist what they recommend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Do I Make the Right Choice for My Smile? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here are some points to consider as you evaluate your decision:<\/p>\n\n\n\n