Dental Bridge for Elderly Missing Teeth

Fake teeth for the elderly: Dental bridges

As we age, the teeth undergo a natural change affecting overall oral health, as well as the appearance of the smile. Enamel wears down, gums recede, discoloration is more likely, and teeth become more brittle.

This can lead to teeth falling out, or wearing down so much they need to be taken out.

With so many fake teeth options available, which is the best solution to replace lost teeth?

Today, we'll discuss dental bridges, how they're used alongside dental implants, and the benefits they have for both your smile and confidence.

What is a dental bridge?

Bridges are artificial teeth that are used to fill gaps left by one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge typically consists of two crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a connected false tooth (or teeth) filling the space between them. The crowns can be anchored to natural teeth or a dental implant.

Dental bridges are a great option for people who have one or more missing teeth. Most commonly, teeth are lost due to tooth decay, gum disease, or accidents; however, some people are born with congenital disabilities that cause them to be missing teeth at birth.

In order to get a dental bridge, you must have healthy teeth on either side of the space where the missing tooth/teeth used to be.

Full bridges are used to replace all teeth in the jaw, while partial dentures fill gaps when some natural teeth remain.

What are the different types of dental bridges?

The most common type of bridge is the traditional fixed bridge, which consists of two or more crowned teeth connected by a filler tooth or teeth. The crowns keep the bridge securely in place. Metal, porcelain fused to metal, and ceramics are the most popular materials used in traditional bridges.

The Pontic is a type of cantilever bridge that is only connected to one abutment tooth. If you have teeth on only one side of the gap, this may be an option for you.

A resin-bonded bridge might be what you need if you have missing front teeth. It consists of a framework made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramic teeth and is supported by bond wings on each natural tooth.

An implant-supported bridge is almost exactly like a traditional fixed bridge, with the only exception being that it is held in place by implants instead of being cemented onto the natural teeth.

Bridges don't always require dental implant surgery. Removable dentures are a more flexible option for those with missing teeth who don't want or require a permanent solution.

What happens during a traditional dental bridge procedure?

At the very least, you'll need two appointments:

On your first visit, your healthcare provider will shape the abutment teeth. In order to make room for the crown, they will remove some of the enamel and dentin. They will take an impression or perform a digital scan of your teeth, which a dental lab then uses as a guide to make false teeth and crowns out of porcelain or other materials. While your permanent bridge is being made by the lab, you'll have a temporary one in place to protect any exposed areas in your mouth.

On your second visit, they'll take out the temporary bridge and replace it with a permanent one. They'll also inspect the new bridge to make any necessary adjustments for your comfort.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

A dental bridge can:

Improve the function of your bite
Prevent the remaining teeth from shifting
Allow you to eat and talk normally again
Bring your smile back to life

How long do dental bridges usually last?

Dental bridges have a 5-7 year lifespan. The bridge can last up to 10 years with proper oral hygiene and professional cleanings.

How to care for a dental bridge

The health and strength of the remaining teeth are critical to the success of the dental bridge. It's especially important with a bridge to avoid tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.

If you want to take good care of your teeth and gums, you should do the following:

Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day: Brushing and flossing properly can be demonstrated by a dental professional. You'll most likely use a threader floss, which allows you to slide the floss between the bridge and your gums.

Schedule professional cleanings on a regular basis: Regularly seeing a dentist can aid in the early detection of problems when treatment is more effective.

Consume a well-balanced diet: Limit chewy, fibrous foods like some meats and increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and fiber.

Can you get affordable dental implants?

If you're elderly, dental implants are a great way to get your smile back.

However, if you want them done well, you're looking at paying at least $2,000 - $5,000.

For a cheaper yet equally effective alternative, look at instasmile's pop-on veneers.

Made bespoke to your measurements and shade preferences, pop-on veneers don't just hide gaps in your smile, but also perfect the other teeth by disguising a multitude of dental concerns - including discoloration and chips.

Get started today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat with pop-in veneers?

You can!

Once you get used to them (which doesn't take long at all), you'll be able to eat, speak, and smile as normal.

However, to prevent cracks and breakages, take care when eating harder and crunchier foods.

Will my speech be altered if I get pop-on veneers?

When you first get your pop-on veneers, you may notice a slight lisp.

But don't be concerned. Once you get used to the new addition, you'll be able to speak easily and without any alterations to the sounds you make.

If you have missing teeth, pop-on veneers can reinforce the function of the teeth, improving speech compared to when you had gaps.

What are pop-on veneers made out of?

instasmile is made from a high-quality dental-grade biocompatible copolymer material. It's known for its strength and stability, making it a reliable and long-wearing option.

All pop-on veneers are FDA-registered, safe and certified, and BPA and monomer-free, making them completely safe for continued use.

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