Permanent teeth are designed to last for a lifetime. However, there are many things that can cause you to lose a tooth that range from dental injuries to serious oral health problems such as gum disease. While the loss of one or more teeth is never easy, you have more options than ever before for Los Angeles missing tooth treatment that can help restore your smile to its former beauty.

Options to Replace a Permanent Tooth

In the past, most tooth replacement options were temporary. For example, dentures merely sit in the mouth, and most types must be removed for regular cleanings. However, the field of dentistry has brought you new and better options, and dental implants Los Angeles patients get are meant to replace your tooth permanently.

Reasons to Get a Dental Implant

When it comes to Los Angeles missing tooth treatment, implants provide more benefits than other options. For instance, when you receive dental implants Los Angeles dentists place a post into your jawbone or just above it so that the bones and gums in your mouth fuse to the metal. This creates a permanent place on which the crown of your tooth replacement can sit so that you never have to worry about problems such as having your teeth slip out of place while you talk. Once the surgical site has healed, dental implants cause less trauma to your oral health tissues so that you experience less discomfort than you might with other types of restorations. The dental implants Los Angeles dentists use also helps to promote the retention of your jawbone mass so that you are less likely to lose more teeth in the future.

Success Rates of Implant Dentistry

When you discuss your options for Los Angeles missing tooth treatment, your dentist will carefully check the health of your gums, jawbone and teeth to determine if you are an ideal candidate for implants. This is critical because implants do require a small surgical procedure to place the posts, and being in good health will help you heal faster. In most instances, dental implants Los Angeles dentists place have a success rate of over 95 percent. You can do your part to make sure that your implant placement is successful by following all pre-treatment instructions such as quitting smoking before and after your procedure. If you have chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, make sure to tell your dentist. Keep in mind that conditions such as these may not rule out your chances for getting implants, but your dentist may need to take special precautions such as making sure that your health issues are under control to ensure that you have the best chances for a successful placement of your implants.

Caring for Implant Tooth Replacements

The crown of your dental implant may not be as susceptible to decay as natural enamel, but you will still need to brush and floss normally to remove food debris that contributes to decay on the rest of your teeth. After your Los Angeles missing tooth treatment is complete, you will also need to return to your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings that keep the site and the rest of your mouth in top condition. Making your oral health a priority prevents future problems from occurring that could lead to a need for multiple dental implants, and it helps to promote better gum health that keeps your implant firmly rooted in your mouth. 

The loss of a permanent tooth is upsetting, and our dental team is always ready to help you feel confident with your smile again. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment to help you determine your best option for replacing a missing tooth.