Dental bridges for adults and seniors, a Kenyan guide

Dental bridges for adults and seniors, a Kenyan guide

Missing a tooth doesn’t mean you have to miss out on life. Whether it’s your favourite meal or your everyday smile, one lost tooth can affect more than just your appearance. At Lake Dental Clinic, we understand the emotional and physical toll of tooth loss. That’s why we are here to walk you through one of the most reliable teeth replacement solutions, dental bridges.

What is a dental bridge, and how does it work?

A dental bridge is a custom-made replacement tooth, or set of teeth, designed to fill the gap where teeth are missing. It’s anchored to neighbouring teeth or dental implants, acting as a “bridge” over the space.

Think of it like a bridge over a river. Stable, seamless, and functional solution for a missing link, now in your mouth. Your new tooth is held in place by dental crowns’ prosthesis on either side, giving you a strong bite and a natural-looking smile.

Why tooth replacement matters

  • Impact on confidence

In Kenya, smiling is part of how we connect. Missing teeth can affect how comfortable you feel speaking, smiling, or even showing up socially. It’s more than dental — it’s emotional.

  • Effects on nutrition and health

Chewing becomes harder, and many end up avoiding fruits, meat, or ugali. That’s not just inconvenient — it can affect your overall health.

Common reasons for tooth loss in Kenya

  • Age-related tooth loss

As we grow older, our risk for tooth loss increases. According to the Kenya National Oral Health Policy (2022), over 60% of Kenyans aged 45+ have experienced some form of tooth loss.

  • Gum disease and tooth decay

Poor oral hygiene, limited access to dental care, and sugary diets are major causes. Many Kenyans only visit the dentist when pain becomes unbearable.

  • Injuries and accidents

Boda boda or car accidents, falls, or even sports injuries can lead to unexpected tooth loss.

Why dental bridges are a trusted option

Benefits of dental bridges

  • Natural appearance
  • Quick to install (compared to implants)
  • Affordable
  • No surgery required
  • Long-lasting (with good care)

How they compare to other options

Bridges are less invasive than implants and more stable than removable dentures. They strike a great balance between cost, comfort, and results, especially for older patients.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Dental Bridge?

  • Age and health considerations

If you’re over 30 and missing one or more teeth but still have healthy teeth around the gap, you’re likely a good candidate.

  • Suitability for seniors

Even if you’re over 60, a dental bridge can work well. It’s especially ideal if surgery (like for implants) isn’t advisable due to age or health.

Teeth replacement process with a dental bridge at Lake Dental Clinic

Step 1: Consultation

We assess your dental health and discuss options with you. X-rays may be taken.

Step 2: Preparation and fitting

We reshape the support teeth and take impressions for your custom bridge.

Step 3: Final placement and follow-up

Your bridge is fitted, adjusted, and cemented into place. You’ll also get tips on caring for it.

Does it hurt? What you can expect

Most patients report minimal discomfort. The procedure is done with local anaesthesia, and we offer additional support for patients with dental anxiety. If anything feels off, we are always a phone call away.

After getting a dental bridge, you will enjoy better chewing and clearer speech. Most patients say they feel the difference within days. Brushing, flossing, and routine check-ups are all you need to clean and maintain your bridge well. Our dentists will show you how to clean under your bridge, too.

Cost and payment for dental bridges in Kenya

At Lake Dental Clinic, dental bridges typically range from KES 25,000 to KES 35,000 per unit, depending on the type and materials used. We offer flexible payment options as per your treatment plan, especially for seniors and patients without insurance.

Are you interested in consulting further? We are here to help. Book your appointment to get started.

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