Dental Bridges vs Dentures Durham NC: Which Option Is Right for You?
- Local Start Dental
- Feb 1
- 8 min read
Updated: Sep 16
Dental Bridges vs Dentures: Making the Right Choice
When facing tooth loss, choosing between dental bridges and dentures can feel overwhelming. Both options restore function and appearance, but they work differently and suit different situations. Understanding the key differences helps you make an informed decision about your oral health and quality of life.
Quick Answer: Dental bridges are fixed restorations that replace one to several missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth, while dentures are removable appliances that can replace multiple missing teeth or entire arches. The best choice depends on the number of missing teeth, remaining tooth health, budget, and personal preferences.
Understanding Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices that "bridge" the gap created by missing teeth. They consist of crowns that fit over adjacent teeth (abutments) connected to artificial teeth (pontics) that fill the empty spaces. Bridges are permanently cemented in place and cannot be removed by the patient.
Types of Dental Bridges Available in Durham
Traditional Bridges: The most common type, using crowns on teeth adjacent to the gap to support the replacement teeth.
Cantilever Bridges: Used when adjacent teeth are only available on one side of the missing tooth space.
Maryland Bridges: Use metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, requiring minimal tooth preparation.
Implant-Supported Bridges: Anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth, preserving adjacent tooth structure.
Understanding Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They can replace a few teeth (partial dentures) or all teeth in an arch (complete dentures).
Types of Dentures in Durham, NC
Complete Dentures: Replace all teeth in the upper or lower arch, resting on the gums and held in place by suction and adhesives.
Partial Dentures: Replace several missing teeth while preserving remaining natural teeth, using clasps or precision attachments for retention.
Immediate Dentures: Placed immediately after tooth extraction, providing immediate tooth replacement during healing.
Implant-Supported Dentures: Attached to dental implants for enhanced stability and function.
For detailed information about partial options, review our complete guide to partial dentures.
Dental Bridges vs Dentures: Detailed Comparison
Factor | Dental Bridges | Dentures |
Stability | Excellent (fixed) | Good to Excellent (depending on type) |
Eating Ability | 85-95% of natural | 25-70% of natural |
Speech | Natural from day one | Adjustment period required |
Appearance | Very natural | Good to very natural |
Durability | 10-15 years | 5-10 years |
Cost (Durham) | $2,000-$5,000 per bridge | $566-$1,375 per arch |
Treatment Time | 2-4 weeks | 4-8 weeks |
Tooth Preparation | Requires crown preparation | Minimal to none |
When to Choose Dental Bridges
Ideal Candidates for Bridges
Missing 1-4 consecutive teeth
Strong, healthy adjacent teeth for support
Good oral hygiene habits
Adequate bone support
Preference for fixed (non-removable) solution
Advantages of Dental Bridges
Fixed Solution: Bridges are permanently attached, eliminating concerns about removal or slipping during eating or speaking.
Natural Function: Bridges restore nearly normal chewing efficiency and require no adjustment to eating habits.
Immediate Comfort: No adjustment period needed - bridges feel natural from the moment they're placed.
Preserves Facial Structure: Fixed bridges maintain proper support for lips and cheeks, preventing facial collapse.
Easy Maintenance: Care for bridges like natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing, though special floss threaders may be needed.
Disadvantages of Dental Bridges
Requires Healthy Adjacent Teeth: Adjacent teeth must be prepared (reduced in size) to accommodate crowns, potentially affecting healthy tooth structure.
Higher Cost: Initial investment is typically higher than dentures, though long-term costs may be comparable.
Replacement Complexity: When bridges fail, replacement often requires more extensive treatment.
Limited Scope: Bridges work best for replacing a few teeth, not entire arches.
When to Choose Dentures
Ideal Candidates for Dentures
Missing many or all teeth
Limited budget for tooth replacement
Adjacent teeth are not healthy enough to support bridges
Preference for removable option
Need to replace entire arches
Advantages of Dentures
Versatility: Dentures can replace any number of missing teeth, from one tooth to entire arches.
Affordability: Initial cost is typically lower than bridges or implants, making dentures accessible to more patients.
Non-Invasive: No preparation of adjacent teeth required, preserving existing tooth structure.
Replaceable: Easy to remake or adjust as oral conditions change over time.
Comprehensive Solution: Can address multiple dental problems simultaneously, including gum disease and bone loss.
Disadvantages of Dentures
Adjustment Period: New denture wearers need time to adapt to speaking and eating with removable appliances.
Maintenance Requirements: Daily removal and cleaning required, plus periodic adjustments and replacements.
Reduced Function: Even well-fitting dentures provide less chewing efficiency than natural teeth or fixed restorations.
Potential for Movement: Dentures may slip or click, especially while eating or speaking, though modern techniques minimize this.
Cost Comparison in Durham, NC
Dental Bridge Costs
Traditional dental bridges in Durham typically range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the number of teeth replaced and materials used. This cost includes:
Crown preparation of adjacent teeth
Laboratory fabrication
Multiple fitting appointments
Final cementation
Denture Costs at Local Start Dental
Based on our current fee schedule:
Complete or Partial Dentures: $566-$1,375 per arch
Implant-Supported Dentures: $5,900-$10,900 per arch
Financial Assistance Options
At Local Start Dental, we understand that dental expenses can be challenging. As a nonprofit organization, we offer:
Sliding Scale Fees: Our slide scale is based on our application and proof of household income for qualifying patients.
Flexible Financing Options: Our team can help you set up a payment plan that meets your financial situation through Proceed Finance and CareCredit.
NC Medicaid: Our office gladly accepts NC Medicaid that includes the appropriate dental coverage.
Insurance: While we do not work with private dental insurance directly such as Humana, BCBS, or Aetna, we can provide necessary records for claim submission. In combination with our sliding scale, this can result in maximized savings for our patients.
Treatment Process Comparison
Dental Bridge Process
Consultation and Planning: Evaluation of adjacent teeth and treatment planning
Tooth Preparation: Adjacent teeth are prepared for crowns
Impressions: Detailed molds taken for laboratory fabrication
Temporary Bridge: Placed while permanent bridge is made
Final Fitting: Permanent bridge is adjusted and cemented in place
Denture Process
Comprehensive Examination: Assessment of oral health and treatment needs
Extractions (if needed): Removal of damaged teeth, with information about tooth extraction recovery
Impressions and Measurements: Multiple appointments for accurate fit
Try-in Appointments: Testing fit, function, and appearance
Final Delivery: Completed dentures with care instructions
Maintenance and Longevity
Caring for Dental Bridges
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily using floss threaders or water flossers
Regular dental checkups every 6 months
Avoid hard foods that could damage the bridge
Professional cleanings and monitoring
Caring for Dentures
Remove and clean daily with denture brushes and cleaners
Soak overnight in denture solution
Continue oral hygiene for remaining teeth and gums
Regular dental visits for adjustments and oral health monitoring
Handle carefully to prevent damage
For comprehensive denture care, see our guide on daily denture care.
Why Choose Local Start Dental for Tooth Replacement?
Prosthodontic Expertise
Local Start Dental specializes in complex tooth replacement solutions. Our prosthodontic specialists have extensive training in both bridges and dentures, ensuring optimal outcomes for your specific situation.
Comprehensive Evaluation
We don't just recommend one solution - we evaluate your entire oral health situation to determine whether bridges, dentures, or alternative treatments like dental implants best meet your needs.
Nonprofit Mission
As a nonprofit organization, our priority is providing quality dental care to the Durham community at affordable prices, not maximizing profits.
Full-Service Care
From initial consultation through long-term maintenance, we provide comprehensive care. Our general dentistry services ensure your overall oral health is maintained regardless of which tooth replacement option you choose.
Alternative Options to Consider
Dental Implants
For patients seeking the most natural replacement option, individual dental implants or implant-supported restorations may be ideal. Learn about single tooth implant benefits.
All-on-4 Treatment
For patients missing most or all teeth, All-on-4 implant systems provide a fixed solution supported by just four implants per arch.
Combination Treatments
Some patients benefit from combination approaches, such as bridges in some areas and partial dentures in others, depending on their specific oral health situation.
If you're experiencing dental pain or damage, learn about signs you need a tooth extracted to address problems before they affect your tooth replacement options.
Making Your Decision
Questions to Ask Yourself
How many teeth am I missing?
What is my budget for treatment?
Do I prefer a fixed or removable solution?
How important is immediate function vs. adjustment time?
Are my adjacent teeth healthy enough to support a bridge?
Consultation Process
During your consultation at Local Start Dental, we'll discuss:
Your specific tooth replacement needs
Treatment options available for your situation
Cost estimates and financing options
Timeline for treatment completion
Long-term maintenance requirements
External Resources
For additional information about tooth replacement options and oral health, the Academy of General Dentistry provides comprehensive resources about bridges, dentures, and maintaining oral health with prosthetic devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lasts longer, dental bridges or dentures?
Dental bridges typically last 10-15 years, while dentures last 5-10 years. However, longevity depends on oral hygiene, regular dental care, and individual factors. Local Start Dental provides ongoing maintenance for both options to maximize their lifespan.
Are dental bridges or dentures more comfortable?
Bridges feel more natural immediately since they're fixed in place, while dentures require a 2-4 week adjustment period. Long-term comfort depends on proper fit and maintenance. Local Start Dental ensures optimal comfort with both options through careful planning and follow-up care.
Can I eat normally with bridges or dentures?
Bridges restore nearly normal eating function immediately, while dentures may require dietary modifications initially. Most denture wearers adapt to eating a varied diet, though some foods may always be challenging. Local Start Dental provides dietary guidance for both options.
Which is more affordable in Durham, NC?
Dentures have a lower initial cost ($566-$1,375 per arch) compared to bridges ($2,000-$5,000). However, bridges may be more cost-effective long-term due to their durability. Local Start Dental offers sliding scale fees and financing for both options.
How do I know which option is right for me?
The best choice depends on the number of missing teeth, adjacent tooth health, budget, and personal preferences. Local Start Dental's prosthodontic specialists will evaluate your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate option during your consultation.
Can bridges or dentures be repaired if damaged?
Both bridges and dentures can often be repaired, though the process differs. Bridge repairs may require more extensive work, while denture repairs are typically quicker and less expensive. Local Start Dental provides prompt repair services for both options.
Will my insurance cover bridges or dentures?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. While Local Start Dental doesn't work directly with private insurance, we provide necessary records for claim submission. Combined with our sliding scale fees, this often results in significant savings for patients.
Why choose Local Start Dental for tooth replacement in Durham?
Local Start Dental combines prosthodontic specialization with nonprofit affordability. Our Durham practice offers comprehensive evaluation, sliding scale fees, and expert care through supervised training programs, ensuring optimal outcomes for bridges, dentures, and other tooth replacement options.
Schedule Your Tooth Replacement Consultation
Ready to explore your tooth replacement options in Durham, NC? Local Start Dental offers comprehensive consultations to evaluate whether dental bridges, dentures, or alternative treatments best meet your needs. Our experienced prosthodontic team will assess your case and explain all available options.
Don't let missing teeth affect your confidence and function any longer. Call Local Start Dental at 919.569.5533 or contact us online today to schedule your consultation and discover the best tooth replacement solution for your situation.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment outcomes may vary based on oral health conditions, number of missing teeth, adjacent tooth health, and other factors. Cost estimates are based on Local Start Dental's current fee schedule and general Durham, NC area pricing, and may vary based on individual treatment needs and insurance coverage. Treatment success depends on patient compliance with oral hygiene maintenance, regular dental visits, and proper care of prosthetic devices. Both bridges and dentures require ongoing maintenance and eventual replacement. Local Start Dental recommends scheduling a consultation for personalized treatment planning and accurate cost estimates. Patients should discuss all risks, benefits, and alternatives with their prosthodontist before beginning treatment.
