Partial denture vs. dental bridge

When you're missing one or more teeth, you're not just thinking about your smile. You're thinking about how you eat, how you speak and how to feel like yourself again. At Aspen Dental, we help patients find the right solution to fill those gaps and get back to living comfortably.

Two of the most common options? Partial dentures and dental bridges. Both replace missing teeth, but they work differently. Below, we’ll walk you through what each option is, how they’re made, how they feel, how much they cost—and what to expect from life with them.

Schedule an appointment to explore your options with an Aspen Dental dentist.

What are partial dentures?

Partial dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. They’re made to fit around your existing natural teeth and stay in place with clasps—either metal or acrylic.

The base is gum-colored and usually made from lightweight acrylic resin, though porcelain or metal may be used for added strength or a more precise fit.

At Aspen Dental, here’s what the process looks like from start to finish:

Consultation

Your Aspen Dental dentist evaluates your oral health, takes X-rays and walks you through your options.

Impressions and measurements

We take impressions and measurements to make sure your partial denture fits just right.

Design and customization

Your dental records are sent to a lab, where your custom denture is crafted with your bite, comfort and smile in mind.

Fitting and adjustments

Once the partial denture is back from the lab, you’ll try it on—and your dentist will adjust it for comfort and function.

Final placement

When everything feels good, your partial is ready to go home with you.

Aftercare

We’ll show you how to take care of your denture and answer any questions before you leave the office.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed solution that “bridges the gap” where a tooth—or multiple teeth—used to be. It relies on the healthy teeth next to the gap (or dental implants) to anchor the replacement teeth in place.

Bridges don’t come out. Once they’re placed, they’re bonded securely for a natural feel and confident function.

There are a few types of bridges your Aspen Dental dentist may recommend, depending on your needs:

Traditional bridge

This is the most common type. It uses two teeth—one on each side of the gap—as anchors. It can replace one or multiple teeth.

Cantilever bridge

Uses just one adjacent tooth for support. This option may be used when preserving more natural tooth structure is a priority.

Maryland bridge

Secured with metal or ceramic “wings” bonded to the backs of your teeth instead of full caps. Often used as a temporary or conservative option.

Implant-supported bridge

Anchored by dental implants instead of natural teeth. While this option requires more time for treatment, it’s the most durable and stable option available.

Partial denture vs. dental bridge: key differences

Both options can restore your smile—but they go about it differently. Understanding these key differences can help you feel more confident choosing what’s right for you.

Placement

• Partial dentures: Removable and held in place by clasps that attach to nearby teeth.
  

• Dental bridges: Fixed and bonded in place, using either natural teeth or implants for support.

Comfort

• Partial dentures: May take longer to get used to since they come in and out of your mouth.
  

• Dental bridges: Often feel more natural sooner because they stay put and don’t shift.

Durability

• Partial dentures: Should be checked every 5–7 years and may need occasional adjustments.
  

• Dental bridges: Can last 5 to 15 years—or longer—with good oral hygiene and regular checkups.

Aesthetics

• Partial dentures: Can look very natural, though some clasps may be visible depending on their placement.
  

• Dental bridges: Designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Especially well-suited for front teeth.

Advantages and disadvantages of partial dentures

Partial denture advantages:

• Lower cost – Typically more affordable due to the non-surgical, removable design.
  

• Easy to repair or adjust – If damage occurs, your dentist can often fix or reline them without starting over.
  

• Versatile – Can replace several missing teeth in different areas of the mouth.

Partial denture disadvantages:

• Less stability – As a removable option, partials may shift during eating or speaking. Denture adhesive can help.
  

• Longer adjustment period – May take a bit of time to get used to the feel and fit.
  

• More visible hardware – Some designs may show clasps or metal components.
  

• Daily care required – Must be removed, cleaned, and soaked every night.
  

• Ongoing maintenance – Adjustments may be needed as your mouth naturally changes over time.

Advantages and disadvantages of dental bridges

Dental bridge advantages:

• Long-term durability – Bridges are strong and stable, especially when properly cared for.
  

• Natural look and feel – Matches the appearance and function of your existing teeth.
  

• Preserves oral structure – Helps maintain bite alignment and facial shape by filling the gap.
  

• Easier adjustment – Feels more natural sooner, with less transition time than a removable option.
  

• Low maintenance – No soaking or adhesives needed—just keep up with your brushing and flossing.

Dental bridge disadvantages:

• Requires healthy support teeth – The surrounding teeth need to be strong and stable.
  

• Tooth prep required – In many cases, enamel must be removed from neighboring teeth to place the bridge.
  

• Not ideal for large gaps – Bridges are best for replacing one or a few missing teeth—not entire arches.
  

• Higher upfront cost – May cost more than partial dentures, especially for implant-supported bridges.

Cost comparison: partial dentures vs. dental bridges

Costs vary depending on your individual needs. Here’s a look at what may affect your treatment price:

Partial dentures

Factors that may impact the cost of partial dentures:

• Type of material used (acrylic, metal, porcelain, etc.)

• Number of teeth being replaced

• Any additional procedures like extractions or root canals

Dental bridges

Factors that may impact the cost of dental bridges:

• Type of bridge (traditional, Maryland, implant-supported, etc.)

• Number of missing teeth

• Materials used for the bridge and crowns

• Pre-treatment needs, like prepping anchor teeth or removing damaged ones
  
  

Your Aspen Dental care team will always walk you through the expected costs and available options—including financing—before any treatment begins. Learn more about dental financing and insurance here.

How to care for partial dentures and dental bridges

Keeping your tooth replacement clean helps it last longer—and protects your oral health along the way.

Partial dentures:

• Clean daily – Remove before bed and clean gently with a soft brush and denture cleaner (not toothpaste).

• Soak overnight – Use lukewarm water or a denture soak to keep it moist and maintain its shape.

• Maintain good oral hygiene – Brush and floss your natural teeth and use mouthwash to stay fresh.

• Watch the fit – If it feels loose or irritating, visit your Aspen Dental office for a quick adjustment.

• Fix damage fast – If you spot a crack or bend, stop wearing it and call us for a repair appointment.

Dental bridges:

• Brush and floss daily – Keeping the area around your bridge clean is key to its longevity.

• Use a floss threader or water flosser – This can help get under the bridge and remove food particles.

• Avoid hard or sticky foods – These can damage or dislodge the bridge.

• See your dentist regularly – Routine exams and cleanings help prevent problems.

• Act quickly on damage – Chipped or loose bridges should be evaluated and repaired by your dentist right away.

Partial dentures vs. dental bridges FAQs

How long do partial dentures and dental bridges last?

Partial dentures may need replacement every 5–7 years, while dental bridges can last 5–15 years or more with proper care. Staying consistent with oral hygiene and regular checkups helps extend the life of both options.

Can I eat normally with a partial denture or dental bridge?

Yes. Both solutions are made to restore normal chewing function, but you may want to start with softer foods while adjusting. Avoid overly sticky or hard items that could pull or damage your device.

Can I get a partial denture or dental bridge if I have missing teeth in multiple areas?

Yes. At Aspen Dental, we’ll help you determine the best option based on the number of missing teeth, their location, and your overall oral health.

What happens if my partial denture or dental bridge gets damaged?

Call your Aspen Dental office right away. Do not attempt to fix it yourself—this can make the damage worse. While you wait for your appointment, avoid chewing on the affected side and stick to softer foods.

Learn more about partial dentures and dental bridges at Aspen Dental

Not sure which option fits your needs? We’ve helped millions of patients replace missing teeth with care that fits their lifestyle, comfort and budget.

Schedule an appointment today and let’s talk about what’s possible for your smile.