Oral health is intrinsically connected to our overall well-being. A seemingly minor issue such as missing teeth can have far-reaching implications on our health. If not addressed promptly, a missing tooth for years can lead to a domino effect of health problems and can significantly impact an individual's regular activities.

For starters, it's not just about aesthetics or self-confidence, although the impact on one's appearance can lead to lowered self-esteem and social anxiety. Functionally, missing teeth can hinder basic activities we often take for granted. Chewing efficiency is often compromised, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies. In this blog, we will explain some of the consequences and teeth replacement options offered in our dental clinics in Los Angeles:

Can missing teeth cause health problems?

Yes, missing teeth can indeed cause several health problems. When a tooth is missing, the neighboring teeth may shift towards the open space, leading to misalignment and potential bite issues. This can result in undue stress on certain teeth and jaw muscles, increasing the risk of damage and discomfort. Furthermore, the long-term effects of missing teeth might be bone loss in the jaw, as the body naturally recycles the bone that's no longer in use. This process, known as bone resorption, can weaken the jaw and alter the shape and appearance of the face over time.

It also can affect the ability to chew appropriately and eventually cause nutritional deficiencies. This could also cause changes in facial structure over time, potentially leading to a sunken appearance around the mouth.

It's essential to consult with a dental professional such as Dr. Káren Baghdasaryan and Dr. Gohar Hovsepyan at Viva Smile. If you live in Los Angeles, you can contact our team and schedule a consultation with our surgical dentist, Dr. Baghdasaryan, who will take a detailed medical history to understand potential causes for missing teeth, including trauma, tooth decay, periodontal disease, or systemic conditions like diabetes. Subsequently, a thorough oral examination is performed. This includes visual inspection and palpation of the oral tissues, noticing abnormalities. Throughout this process, he will discuss findings with the patient, ensuring they understand the diagnosis's implications and the available treatment options.

What are my options for missing teeth?

There are a few options for replacing missing teeth available at Viva Smile in Los Angeles. Dental Implants are a popular choice; these are artificial roots implanted into your jawbone, which can hold a full tooth implant and provide a foundation for a restoration like a crown, a single tooth bridge, or a partial denture implant.

Implants are made of titanium — a material your body doesn't recognize as a foreign substance. This enables your implant actually to fuse with your jawbone in a process called Osseointegration. Once fused, your implant functions like a natural tooth root and requires little maintenance. Beyond aesthetics, they also help maintain oral health by preventing bone loss, maintaining facial structure, and enabling normal eating and speaking functions.

Dental implants include a comprehensive examination, x-rays, and dental CT scans to ensure sufficient bone structure for placing the implants. A titanium post is surgically placed in the bone and left to heal and integrate with the bone. This serves as a root for the new tooth. Once healing occurs, an abutment is attached to the implant post. Impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental lab where your new prosthetic tooth is crafted. When the new tooth is ready, it is attached to the abutment. As a result, the patient has a brand-new dental implant that looks, fits, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

If you have missing teeth and live near Van Nuys and Granada Hills or any city in Los Angeles, we invite you to schedule an appointment with our esteemed dentists, Dr. Gohar Hovsepyan and Dr. Káren Baghdasaryan. They have a wealth of experience and a proven track record in providing effective solutions for missing teeth. Reclaim your radiant smile and boost your self-confidence. Contact us today to schedule your appointment. Don't delay—your perfect smile is just an appointment away!