Losing a tooth is always a shocking event and not one that should be taken lightly. Whether you have suffered a physical injury or you are dealing with a widespread infection, it is important to know exactly what to do when you lose a tooth in order to preserve your dental health. Experts in periodontal care on Wilshire Blvd will list some immediate steps to take if you find yourself with a missing tooth. Be sure to reach out to us for expert dental care as soon as you can so we can attempt to reattach your tooth and apply effective oral care.

What to Do When You Lose a Tooth

Try to Preserve Your Tooth

If you can locate the tooth after it has fallen out, do so immediately. Make sure to pick it up by the top, or the crown, rather than the root. Damaging the roots can prevent them from being reattached to your mouth. You can gently rinse off the tooth with water to remove any dust or dirt. If your mouth is bleeding, use clean cotton and gauze to keep the area clean until you stop. Once you are no longer bleeding, you can place the tooth back into its socket and make your way to an emergency dentist.

Your body will do its own work to preserve your tooth. For example, your saliva can keep the tooth clean while also helping to stem any signs of growing infection. You can use a clean cloth or gauze to hold the tooth in place while you are on your way to see the specialist.

Replace Your Missing Tooth

If your tooth has been knocked out and it is unable to be recovered, you may end up with a gap in your mouth. You should not leave this gap alone for too long as the dangers of a missing tooth include the buildup of harmful bacteria and jawbone deterioration. You should seek your dentist for any emergency care you may need and then inquire about the next steps right away.

There are a few highly recommended tooth replacement options:

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are quick prosthetic treatments that can keep the area between your teeth strong and protected. A dental bridge might be recommended when you have one or more missing teeth and you are looking to permanently fix the problem. Bridges look and feel just like your natural teeth, and are permanently attached to the teeth on either side of the gap with an abutment.

Dentures

A common and cost-effective option to replace multiple missing teeth, dentures serve as removable prosthetics. They can help you restore full functionality in your mouth. A pair of dentures will fit the exact measurements of your mouth, helping you feel more comfortable while:

• eating
• speaking
• chewing
• swallowing
• and even breathing without a struggle

Dental Implants

Traditional dental implants work as permanent fixtures in your mouth. They reinforce your dental health with metal posts attached to your jawbone. We then attach crowns to these posts, which provide permanent strength and protection against infection. Like dentures and bridges, implants also look and act just like natural teeth.

Those looking for advanced teeth-in-a-day options can try out our brand-new all on 4 dental implants. This option can replace single teeth and restore your entire arch. This proves an excellent option for those not only struggling with tooth loss but also:

• gum disease
• bone deterioration
• or other uncomfortable dental conditions

Get Custom Implants in LA Today

Our periodontal experts on Wilshire recommend that you make an immediate appointment. Ideally, with your trusted dentist as soon as you notice your missing tooth. We have a number of restorative treatment options available to help you fill in the gaps or restore health to your missing tooth. Get in touch with us today to schedule your own personal consultation!