Dental Bridge vs. Partial Denture: Which Is Right For You?

If you’re missing multiple teeth, restoring your smile is more than just a cosmetic decision—it’s essential for your long-term oral health. Two common solutions are dental bridges and partial dentures, both designed to replace missing teeth and help you chew, speak, and smile with confidence. But how do you know which one is right for you?

Let’s explore the key differences, benefits, and considerations to help guide your decision.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that “bridges” the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It’s typically anchored to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap and includes one or more prosthetic teeth (called pontics) in between.

Benefits of dental bridges:

• Fixed in place—no need to remove them
• Look and feel natural
• Restore normal biting and chewing function
• Can help prevent teeth from shifting out of alignment

Bridges are best suited for patients who still have strong, healthy teeth adjacent to the missing ones or who are candidates for dental implants.

What Is a Partial Denture?

A partial denture is a removable appliance that includes prosthetic teeth attached to a gum-colored base, designed to fit comfortably in your mouth. It’s often secured with small metal or acrylic clasps that grip surrounding teeth.

Benefits of partial dentures:

• Typically more affordable than bridges
• Non-invasive—no surgery or reshaping of nearby teeth required
• Easy to repair or modify if tooth loss progresses
• A good option if you’re missing teeth in multiple areas of the mouth

Partial dentures may be recommended for patients who don’t qualify for bridges or implants due to oral health concerns or budget constraints.

Key Differences to Consider

While both options are designed to replace missing teeth, here are some key points of comparison:

Feature	Dental Bridge	Partial Denture
Removable?	No – Fixed in place	Yes – Can be taken out
Cost	Higher upfront cost	Lower upfront cost
Longevity	10–15 years with proper care	5–10 years on average
Comfort	Feels like natural teeth	May take time to adjust to
Ideal for…	Fewer missing teeth in one area	Multiple missing teeth across mouth

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between a dental bridge and a partial denture depends on your unique dental health, lifestyle, and goals. A bridge may be ideal if you’re looking for a long-term, fixed solution and have healthy teeth nearby to support it. On the other hand, partial dentures might be the better choice if you’re seeking a more affordable or non-surgical option, especially if you’re missing teeth in multiple spots.

Ultimately, a dental consultation is the best way to determine which option suits you best.

Restore Function and Confidence

Replacing missing teeth not only improves your appearance—it also helps protect your oral health. Whether you opt for a bridge or partial denture, taking that next step can make a lasting impact on your quality of life.

About the Practice

At the office of Dr. Terry Rakowsky & Dr. Sean Brown, patients receive personalized, compassionate care focused on restoring both function and aesthetics. With decades of experience in restorative dentistry, Dr. Rakowsky and Dr. Brown help patients find the best solutions for missing teeth, including high-quality dental bridges and custom partial dentures. If you smile needs a tune up, it’s time to visit us.

Call us at (215) 348-2224 or schedule your appointment online.