Clear aligners or fixed braces: how to choose?
Both can move teeth, but they are not lived with in the same way. Compare them, then prepare the question that matters: which one suits your mouth?
Read the articleDental prosthetics: fixed, removable or implant-supported, how to find your way
Replacing one or several teeth can be done in three very different ways. Understand what each one asks of you, day to day and at the clinic, before choosing.
Published by Dr Hafça Moqadem, Dental surgeon in Marrakech2 min read · Interactive article
Article contents
In brief
- A bridge is fixed to the neighbouring teeth; a removable denture is taken out for cleaning; an implant-supported denture rests on implants fixed in the bone.
- The choice depends on the remaining teeth, the available bone and your priorities: it is discussed after the examination.
- In every case, care and check-ups are part of the solution.
Three principles for replacing teeth
A bridge rests on the neighbouring teeth, which have to be prepared. A removable denture replaces several teeth, or all the teeth in an arch, and is taken out for cleaning. An implant-supported denture rests on implants fixed in the bone, which can also steady a removable denture.
These solutions do not suit the same situations: the condition of the remaining teeth, the volume of bone and the gums guide the choice.
A short guide
Your situation, in three questions
An option to discuss with the dentist. Nothing is sent.
Answer the questions to see the points to discuss with the dentist.
A bridge is an option to compare
It fills the space with a fixed solution resting on the neighbouring teeth, which have to be prepared. It is compared with an implant according to the condition of those teeth and the volume of bone.
The bridges page
A removable denture to discuss
Partial or complete depending on the remaining teeth, it is taken out for cleaning. Adjustments are planned after fitting, while you get used to it.
The removable dentures page
An implant-supported denture to study
It rests on implants fixed in the bone and calls for a precise assessment (bone, gums, general health) before any decision.
The implant-supported dentures pageThis guide helps you prepare the discussion. Only an examination can tell what suits your mouth.
Compare
Bridge, removable denture, implant-supported denture
Tick the solutions to compare.
| Item | Bridge | Removable denture | Implant-supported denture |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it is held in place | Fixed to the neighbouring teeth, which have to be prepared. | Rests on the gum and the remaining teeth, taken out for cleaning. | Anchored on implants fixed in the bone. |
| Care | Cleaning under the intermediate part, with suitable floss or interdental brushes. | Cleaned daily outside the mouth; taking it out at night is often advised. | Careful hygiene around the implants and regular check-ups. |
| After fitting | A temporary bridge is fitted while the final bridge is made. | Adjustments are planned, as the gum gradually adapts. | A healing period is planned; its pace depends on the case. |
| Preliminary step | Comparison with an implant according to the neighbouring teeth and the bone. | Examination of the remaining teeth and the gums. | Assessment and imaging to evaluate the bone. |
The same comparison as a chart (general guides, to be confirmed at the examination)
Qualitative scale: Low · Moderate · High · Very high. These are not measurements: every clinical situation is different.
Step by step
What happens, from examination to fitting
-
The examinationAt the clinic
The remaining teeth and the gums are examined to choose the type of denture; imaging may be requested.
-
The impressionsAt the clinic
Several visits are used to record the shape of the mouth, then to choose the shape and shade of the teeth.
-
The try-inAt the clinic
The denture is tried in before it is finished, to check the appearance and the bite.
-
Fitting and adjustmentsAt the clinic
After fitting, adjustments are made where you report discomfort. Do not alter the denture yourself.
-
Daily careAt home
The cleaning technique is shown to you on the day of fitting; regular check-ups are to be planned.
To tick
Looking after a removable denture
General NHS guidance, to be adapted with your dentist. Your choices stay on this page: they are neither saved nor sent.
Common myths
Common beliefs
“A removable denture needs no follow-up.”False
The gum changes: adjustments and check-ups are needed, especially at the start.
“A bridge is fitted without touching the neighbouring teeth.”False
The supporting teeth are prepared. This is why a bridge is mainly suited to cases where those teeth already need protecting.
“Implants suit everyone.”False
They need enough bone, healthy gums and good general health. The assessment checks this.
Your questions
Should I keep the denture in at night?
It is often advised to take it out at night to let the gum rest. The instruction that suits your case is given to you.
Why does a denture sometimes rub at first?
The gum gradually adapts. Points of friction are corrected by adjustment; do not alter it yourself.
How do I clean under a bridge?
With suitable floss or interdental brushes passed under the intermediate part. The technique is shown to you on the day of fitting.
What does it cost?
The clinic does not publish fees online. A detailed written quote is given after the examination, before any decision.
Book an appointment
Let us talk about your dental prosthesis.
Call the clinic, write to us on WhatsApp, or choose a day and a time yourself: your request reaches the clinic's WhatsApp and they will confirm the appointment.
2nd floor, No. 180 Madani Plaza, Boulevard Abdelkrim Al Khattabi, Guéliz, Marrakech
