While dental bridges have restored smiles for thousands of Anchorage dental patients, they are not problem free. Many Anchorage people with dental bridges find it impossible to keep the small areas around the bridge clean. This is not surprising because it is hard to get toothbrush bristles or dental floss under the bridge.

Of course bacteria has no trouble moving in and taking over without the Anchorage dental patient even knowing it. When the decay reaches the roots of the surrounding teeth, it is not only painful, the person is at risk of losing those teeth also.

Dental Implant Superior To A Dental Bridge

Most Anchorage people with missing teeth are great candidates for dental implants. A dental implant looks just like the beautiful tooth restoration on a high-quality dental bridge, but the important part is what you don’t see.

A dental implant is screwed directly into the jaw bone. It is not attached to teeth like the dental bridges traditionally used in Anchorage. In a way, a dental implant is a more conservative tooth replacement because it leaves the adjacent teeth intact. The bone and gum tissue mesh permanently with the titanium post that serves as the replacement tooth root.

Dental implants do not have the same decay risk as the teeth that anchor dental bridges. Of course patients with dental implants need to brush and floss, but cleaning a dental implant is usually no more difficult than cleaning a normal tooth.

Dental implants have a far better track record in Anchorage than dental bridges. With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime for smile-smart Anchorage folks.

Long-Term Benefits and Oral Health Preservation

Dental implants offer significant long-term benefits that go beyond the aesthetic. They contribute to better oral health by preserving natural tooth structures and preventing bone loss that typically follows tooth loss.

Unlike bridges, which require altering the adjacent teeth, implants integrate with the jawbone, providing stable support that mimics natural tooth roots. This integration helps maintain the jawbone’s integrity and prevents the facial collapse that can occur with bone loss. Moreover, implants support individual crowns or dentures without putting strain on other teeth, which helps preserve the long-term health of the entire mouth.

Cost-Effectiveness and Investment in Oral Health

While the initial cost of dental implants may be higher than dental bridges, their longevity, and lower maintenance requirements can make them a more cost-effective solution in the long run. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, potentially eliminating the need for future replacements or repairs that bridges might require.

Additionally, by preserving the jawbone and surrounding teeth, implants can prevent further dental issues, saving money on additional dental treatments. Investing in dental implants is an investment in oral health, contributing to better functionality, aesthetics, and the prevention of further dental complications.

Considering a Permanent Solution with Dental Implants?

If you currently have a dental bridge, you might consider permanently replacing it with a dental implant before the adjacent teeth are threatened with decay or gum disease.

If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, we invite you to call Excellence In Dentistry at (907) 349-0022.