Tooth Replacement Options at Smiles for Life
Are you missing one or more teeth? You’re not alone! An estimated 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. Thanks to the many benefits of dental implants, more and more people are choosing them for tooth replacement than ever before. Not only do dental implants provide a permanent solution to tooth loss, they also help protect the health of your surrounding teeth and entire mouth.
At Smiles for Life in Auburn, IN, Dr. Heffelfinger offers dental implant solutions to fit anyone’s needs, whether you’re missing one tooth, several teeth, or even all of your natural teeth.
Single Tooth Replacement
It used to be that the only option for replacing a single missing tooth was a dental bridge. These restorations rely on surrounding teeth for support, permanently altering them. Now, we can replace a single tooth by independently securing a crown to the jawbone with a dental implant. A single dental implant is ideal for replacing one tooth or for replacing several teeth if they’re spread throughout your mouth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
Although we can replace several adjacent teeth with individual implants, Dr. Heffelfinger will usually recommend replacing them with a custom-designed bridge or partial denture secured with one or more dental implants. This is a much more cost-effective solution than replacing each missing tooth with an implant and the results are just as natural-looking.
Full Arch Replacement
Removable dentures used to be the only option for replacing a full arch of teeth, but they can be difficult to get used to and have a reputation for slipping out of place while chewing and talking.
Thanks to implant dentistry, we can create a specially designed denture that works with dental implants for a secure fit and natural feel. Implant-supported dentures won’t slip out of place, are more comfortable to wear, and won’t lead to the sunken in facial appearance which is common with wearers of traditional removable dentures.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best dental implant solution for you depends on how many teeth you’re missing. If you only need to replace a single tooth, then a traditional implant is your best option. If you’re missing a few teeth, you can save time and money by securing a customized dental bridge or partial dentures with implants. For patients who are missing a full arch of teeth, we also feature overdentures for maximum functionality and convenience.
Yes! If you’re missing a full arch of teeth or even both arches, Dr. Heffelfinger can customize a set of complete dentures just for you and secure them with dental implants. Since they’re anchored to your jaw, implant-supported dentures won’t ever slide around or fall out, and they’ll stimulate your jawbone to prevent deterioration.
No matter how many teeth you’re missing, dental implants at our Auburn, IN practice can help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence.