Dental options for Seniors with few teeth left
Seniors have special dental care needs. Most of the time, they have some or most of their teeth missing. In addition, their gums are usually in poor shape.
However, this does not mean that they no longer need to see a dentist, they actually have more or a reason to visit one and regularly too in order for them to save the remaining teeth they have.
The following are the most common dental options for seniors with only a few teeth left:
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Bridges
Dental bridges are appliances that replace missing teeth. They are fixed in place and can no longer be removed.
There are three main kinds of dental bridges:
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Traditional bridges
A crown is created on either side of the missing tooth, with an artificial tooth or pontic in between. These are usually made out of porcelain. They are usually the preferred option because they look like natural teeth.
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Cantilever bridges
These are used when there are adjacent teeth on the same side as the missing tooth or teeth. These are not commonly used as they put too much force on the existing teeth and could damage them.
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Maryland bonded bridges
These are also made of porcelain and are fused to metal or plastic teeth and gums. They are bonded to your existing teeth.
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Dental Implants
If money is not an issue, dental implants are really the best choice. They look like your natural teeth and can last for the rest of your life if properly cared for.
However, this may not be a viable option for some seniors as their gums or the bones in their jaws can no longer support a dental implant. Additionally, they may not have that many years left to justify the cost of a dental implant.
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Dentures
These are removable dental appliances which are used to replace both missing teeth and their surround tissue and gums. They are made to look like natural teeth and make you appear to have a perfect smile.
There are 2 types of dentures:
- Complete dentures
- Partial dentures