Rather than live with the discomfort of tooth loss or the hassle of dentures, many patients are choosing a better option: dental implants.
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If you do not qualify for traditional implants due to jaw recession, you can still enjoy an implant-supported denture .
Learn why our dentists recommend this incredible technique for our patients in the greater Harrisonburg, VA, region.
Discover Dental Implants
The fixed bridge method restores a full-arch of teeth with four strategically placed implants rather than the traditional six to eight. We insert two implants vertically in the front of the jaw and two in the back of the jaw at an angle. This arrangement maximizes contact with the bone tissue and ensures the same stability in patients with jaw recession. Â
Are Patients Who Choose
Dental Implants Happy with Their Results?
Dental Implants Happy with Their Results?
Yes! Pictured below is a real patient of Smiles for Life Dental Care. Charlotte suffered from severe tooth decay due to para esophageal acid reflux that affected her chewing ability and confidence. Take a look at how dental implants transformed her smile.
Before
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Extensive tooth decay on the upper and lower dental arch made it difficult to enjoy meals.
After
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Request a consultation online or call our Bridgewater office at (540) 828-2312 or our Staunton office at (540) 887-3304.
The Advantages of Fixed Bridges</em
Avoid Preparatory Procedures
Bone recession is a common side effect of missing teeth. Fortunately, dental implants work even if you have sustained jawbone atrophy. While you would need bone grafting in order to qualify for traditional implants, you can skip these extra steps.
Save Money
Replacing an entire row of teeth can be expensive. Typically a more cost-effective way to get implant-supported dentures. Dental implants are typically priced by the unit, meaning the fewer posts you need, the less expensive your treatment total.
Enjoy Results Faster
Treatment timeline is much faster than traditional dental implants. Avoiding a bone graft can save you 3-6 months alone. Furthermore, we can attach your denture immediately after placing your implants, restoring your smile in one appointment.
"I am so pleased with the dental work I have had done at Smiles for Life. It is great to be able to smile again without being embarrassed about broken, ugly teeth...Those who knew me before tell me how nice and natural my teeth look, almost to the point of embarrassment. I am so pleased with the results, and my family is also very pleased. Many of them have chosen Smiles for Life as well for their dental care. Even my great grandchildren like going to the dentist there. Thank you Smiles for Life for giving me back the ability to enjoy a good meal again and to have a confident smile. I would highly recommend Smiles for Life for any dental care."
- Charlotte, Mount Crawford, VA
Ready to Get Started?
Smiles for Life Dental Care serves the community in Harrisonburg and beyond with top-of-the-line dental implants. Ready to get started? Take the first step by scheduling an appointment in Bridgewater or Staunton, VA. Our dentists offer complimentary consultations and free second opinions to determine if this is right for you.
Contact us online or by calling:
Fixed Bridges Can Address Several Issues
Severe decay and trauma can leave teeth beyond repair. If this is the case with your teeth, our dentists might recommend extractions. Once we remove the remaining damaged teeth, you will heave a healthier foundation to begin treatment.
If you have lost a full arch or all of your natural teeth, an implant-supported denture offers an excellent opportunity to rebuild your smile. Most patients who need a full denture qualify.
Severe periodontal issues can compromise the stability of your teeth. For some patients, the best treatment option is to remove the remaining teeth, allowing the gums to heal so our doctors can place dental implants.
Candidates for Fixed Bridges</em
Fixed bridges are not suitable for everyone. Before you can start treatment, you will need to attend a consultation with one of our dentists. At this time, we will ask you several questions about your medical history and perform a thorough dental examination. Factors that can affect your candidacy include:
Overall Health
Since implants require a surgical procedure, you need to be in good health to qualify. Certain medical conditions, like autoimmune disorders and uncontrolled diabetes, can put you at higher risk for complications. Make sure that you are healthy enough to undergo surgery and tell the dentist if you have a history of adverse effects from anesthesia.
Oral Structures
Fixed bridges are designed to accommodate jaw recession but only up to a certain point. If your bone density is too low, you face potential implant failure. During your consultation, we will take 3D scans of your jaw to determine if bone grafting is necessary.
Overall Health
We only recommend dental implants for patients who are nonsmokers. If you smoke, you will need to quit several months before implant surgery and refrain from using tobacco products throughout your entire treatment. Your dentist will speak to you about the potential risks and discuss your nonsurgical tooth replacement options.
Technology-Assisted Care
Our two Harrisonburg-area practices are equipped with the latest dental technology to ensure your safety and the best possible implant results. Learn more about the technology we use in treatment:
Soft Tissue Laser
Laser dentistry allows us to treat gum tissue without making incisions, providing patients with a faster, more comfortable recovery.
Low-Radiation X-Rays
These high-resolution images allow us to diagnose oral health issues and precisely plan the placement of your implants.
Computed Tomography
Save On Your Dental Implants
Smiles for Life Dental Care offers patients in the greater Harrisonburg region several options to make dental implants more affordable.
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In addition to traditional dental insurance, we also accept Medicare. Our dentists are part of just 1% of U.S. dental providers certified to treat Medicare patients. Medicare can significantly reduce the cost of medically necessary dental procedures like implants for eligible patients over the age of 65. While insurance and Medicare will not cover dental implants completely, you may be able to save anywhere from 30-50%.Â
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You can manage your remaining out-of-pocket expenses with flexible financing. Our offices in Bridgewater and Staunton accept plans from multiple third-party lenders such as CareCredit®, LendingClubâ„¢, and iCareâ„¢. If you are interested in financing and want to learn more, please send us a message or schedule a consultation today.Â
Our dental team is here to make you smile.
Get a Personal Cost Estimate for Treatment
Since treatment is a custom dental procedure, we will need to examine you in person to give you an accurate price estimate. During your consultation, we will be happy to break down the costs and discuss the ways you can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Dental implants are undoubtedly an investment. However, most people find the comfortable and convenient results are well worth it in the end.Â
You can schedule an appointment in Bridgewater or Staunton, VA, by calling:Â (540) 828-2312
"I am so pleased with the dental work I have had done at Smiles for Life. It is great to be able to smile again without being embarrassed about broken, ugly teeth...Those who knew me before tell me how nice and natural my teeth look, almost to the point of embarrassment. I am so pleased with the results, and my family is also very pleased. Many of them have chosen Smiles for Life as well for their dental care. Even my great grandchildren like going to the dentist there. Thank you Smiles for Life for giving me back the ability to enjoy a good meal again and to have a confident smile. I would highly recommend Smiles for Life for any dental care."
- Charlotte, Mount Crawford, VA
A Closer Look at the Procedure
What to Expect During Treatment
Once we create your custom plan during your consultation, we will schedule your treatment.
Before you leave the office, we will attach temporary dentures to your implants. This gives you a functional set of teeth to wear while you heal.
Don't be nervous about the procedure.
Don't be nervous about the procedure.
Sedation Can Ensure Your Comfort
Does fear of the dentist or worry about pain keep you from scheduling dental treatment? If so, you are not alone. Dental phobia is a real problem for many of our patients in the Harrisonburg region. We understand your concerns and can offer an easy solution with sedation dentistry.
Our dentists are qualified to administer several types of sedation, such as nitrous oxide, oral conscious, and IV sedation. These drugs induce a state of heightened relaxation, allowing you to get through your treatment in comfort. During your consultation, we can discuss your needs and determine if sedation can help you during dental implant treatment.
Maintaining Your Results
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Make sure to practice good oral hygiene and attend regular checkups with your dentist. Your denture will be made from premium restorative materials and will not stain or break easily. Nonetheless, treat your prosthetic with care and avoid chewing on anything that would damage natural teeth. If you have any questions, please give us a call. We will be happy to provide more detailed instructions for maintaining your denture.
