Dental Bridges vs. Implants: What’s the Difference?

At Four Corners Dental Group, we offer comprehensive dental solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients. For replacing missing teeth, we provide both dental bridges and implants, each with specific benefits.

A dental bridge is a traditional solution to fill the gap left by missing teeth. It typically consists of crowns placed on adjacent teeth (abutments) that support a false tooth (pontic) in between. Materials like porcelain and alloys ensure durability and aesthetics. Bridges rely on the health of surrounding teeth, which may require reshaping and crowning. This option is ideal for patients who prefer a non-surgical approach or have specific oral health concerns.

Dental implants offer a more permanent solution by surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, serving as a foundation for a replacement tooth. Implants don’t require alterations to surrounding teeth, preserving natural dental integrity. They also integrate with the jawbone, promoting bone health. While the cost and healing time are higher, implants often provide a long-lasting solution, potentially lasting a lifetime with proper care.

The decision between a bridge and an implant depends on factors like oral health, bone density, budget, and personal preference. Our team will evaluate your needs and help guide you to the best choice for restoring your smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our personalized dental solutions.

At Four Corners Dental Group, we offer dental bridges as an effective solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile. Our skilled professionals provide personalized care, ensuring a comfortable experience for each patient.

Dental bridges fill the gap left by missing teeth using artificial teeth called pontics, which are anchored by crowns placed on neighboring natural teeth, known as abutment teeth. This restores both the appearance of your smile and your ability to chew and speak clearly.

The process begins with a thorough consultation to evaluate your oral health and discuss your needs. The abutment teeth are prepared by carefully removing a small amount of enamel, making space for the crowns. Impressions are taken and sent to a trusted dental laboratory to create a custom bridge that fits naturally.

While the permanent bridge is being made, a temporary bridge is placed to protect your teeth and gums. Once your custom bridge is ready, a fitting is scheduled, where the bridge is carefully checked for fit and bite alignment. Any necessary adjustments are made before the bridge is permanently cemented into place.

To ensure the longevity of your dental bridge, regular check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential. With proper care, your bridge can last for many years, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. Let us help you regain your confidence with a complete and healthy smile.

At Four Corners Dental Group, we offer advanced dental implant solutions that restore both function and aesthetics for patients with missing teeth. Here’s how we ensure a successful implant experience:

Comprehensive Evaluation: The process begins with a thorough evaluation, including your dental and medical history, and advanced imaging like X-rays and 3D scans. This helps us develop a personalized implant strategy based on your specific needs.

Surgical Expertise: Our skilled dental surgeons place a titanium post into the jawbone, acting as a stable artificial root. The biocompatibility of titanium promotes osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the bone, ensuring stability.

Healing and Integration: The healing period can take weeks to months, during which the implant integrates with the bone. Our team provides guidance and support to ensure the best conditions for osseointegration.

Custom Restoration: Once the implant has fully integrated, we attach an abutment to secure the custom-made crown. The crown is designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless, natural appearance.

Long-Term Care and Support: We emphasize maintaining good oral hygiene and regular check-ups to ensure the longevity of your implant. Our team is dedicated to providing ongoing care and advice, helping your implant function like a natural tooth for years.

Choose Four Corners Dental Group for your dental implant needs, and restore your smile with reliable, durable solutions.

When considering tooth replacement options, it’s important to weigh the benefits of dental bridges versus dental implants. Both offer distinct advantages for restoring your smile.

Dental bridges are a reliable solution for filling gaps left by missing teeth. They are anchored to your existing teeth or crowns, providing a seamless appearance. With proper care and regular check-ups, bridges can last 7 to 15 years, depending on the health of surrounding teeth and gums.

For those seeking a more permanent solution, dental implants may be the ideal choice. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, where they integrate through osseointegration. This process not only provides a stable foundation for the new tooth but also preserves jawbone health. With proper maintenance, implants can last several decades and offer a durable, natural-feeling restoration.

At Four Corners Dental Group, the choice between a bridge and an implant depends on factors such as your oral health, bone quality, and personal preferences. Our experienced team will assess your needs and help you choose the most effective and comfortable solution.

Whether opting for a bridge or an implant, our team is dedicated to providing personalized care to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. For more information, contact us or make an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 3901 Raspberry Rd, Anchorage, AK 99502. We serve patients from Anchorage AK, Eagle River AK, Campbell AK, South Anchorage AK, Chugiak AK, Spenard AK, and surrounding areas.