15 Aug Are Permanent Dental Bridges a Good Option for Seniors? Pros and Cons
Missing teeth can do more than make you feel self-conscious. They can also make eating, speaking, and smiling feel uncomfortable. You don’t have to struggle, though. Dental bridges can restore a natural smile and make it possible for you to eat, drink, and speak normally again. However, they aren’t the best fit for everyone. We explore dental bridge pros and cons below.
Are Permanent Dental Bridges a Good Option for Seniors?
For patients with otherwise healthy gums and teeth, dental bridges can be a relatively quick and inexpensive way to replace missing teeth. There is no surgery required, and bridges are custom-made for your comfort. They fit with your current tooth alignment, are permanently fixed in your mouth, and are beautifully designed to match your other teeth.
While there is an adjustment period once your new bridge is placed, there is no extensive recovery time needed. With care, a dental bridge can last up to 15 years before needing replacement.
What’s most important is your commitment to keeping the bridge clean. You’ll need to floss underneath it, which can be tricky. If flossing is difficult for you, a bridge may not be the best option.
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of dental bridges for seniors.
Dental Bridge Pros and Cons
Understanding the features, limits and types of dental bridges is essential to making the right choice in addressing the problems caused by missing teeth. Many people enjoy the appearance and functionality that bridges provide. However, additional work may be needed to address other dental health concerns.
Pros:
- Get your ability to chew food and speak clearly back
- Can be colored to appear seamless with your natural teeth
- Faster and more affordable than dental implants
- Keeps neighboring teeth from shifting
- While most bridges require two teeth to hold it in place, it is possible to craft a bridge that functions while attached to only one tooth
Cons:
- Adjacent healthy teeth are reshaped so the bridge fits securely
- Bridges typically need replacement every 5–15 years
- Bone loss where teeth are missing will continue
- Regular and thorough oral hygiene is necessary to avoid tooth decay and gum issues under and around the bridge
The Best Tooth Replacement Options for Seniors
You have multiple options when it comes to tooth replacement, which is why talking to your dentist is so important. At your personalized consultation, we’ll consider the condition of your existing teeth, gums, and jaw, as well as your financial and lifestyle requirements to find the best solution.
- Dental implants are long-lasting and preserve your jawbone density. However, implant placement requires surgery and significant healing time.
- Partial dentures are removable, making them easy to clean, and relatively low cost. But some patients have trouble adjusting to them. They can also be misplaced and lost or break if accidentally dropped.
- Permanent dental bridges are fixed in place and look natural, but they can be difficult to care for. Additionally, they can only replace up to three missing teeth in a row and the teeth next to the gap must be strong enough to support a bridge.
Dental Care for Seniors in Sun Lakes
One of the most important decisions you’ll make about tooth replacement is choosing the right dentist. Our patients always get customized care that’s aligned with their unique needs. Don’t let tooth loss take away your smile! Pay a visit to our welcoming office, and we’ll review your best treatment options. Contact Saba and Chiappetti Dental Associates in Sun Lakes to make an appointment today.
Photo by Artem Beliaikin on Unsplash used with permission under license for commercial use 08/10/2025.