Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

When patients ask whether dental implants are permanent, the answer is generally yes, with a few important nuances. In most cases, the implant itself can last for decades and often for the rest of a patient’s life. What determines that outcome really comes down to biology, habits, and long-term maintenance.

Implant Longevity is Osseointegration

Once the implant is placed, it fuses with the surrounding bone and essentially becomes part of the jaw. When that integration is successful, the implant functions very much like a natural tooth root. It is stable, does not shift, and provides strong support for a crown.

In many treatment cases, the implant post is the part we expect to last the longest. The restoration on top, typically a crown, may need replacement over time due to normal wear. That is not a failure of the implant, just routine maintenance. Most crowns last many years, but they are still subject to the same forces as natural teeth.

Complications in the Supporting Tissues

Even though implants cannot decay, the surrounding gums and bone can still develop inflammation. Peri implantitis is something we keep a close eye on. It is similar to periodontal disease and can lead to bone loss if not addressed early. Good hygiene and regular recall visits go a long way in preventing that.

Lifestyle Factors Also Play a Role

Smoking, uncontrolled systemic conditions, and heavy grinding can all impact the long-term success of implants. That said, even patients with these risk factors can still do well with proper planning and follow-up care.

In practices serving areas like Gardena, Hawthorne, and Torrance, we often see patients who have had implants in place for many years without issues. The common denominator is consistency with maintenance and realistic expectations about care.

So while nothing in dentistry can be guaranteed as truly permanent, dental implants come very close. With proper placement, healthy bone, and ongoing care, they are one of the most predictable long-term solutions we have. It is less about whether they can last and more about how well they are maintained over time.

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

Dear Patients,

If you’ve been considering dental implants, do not hesitate to benefit from our holiday offer. For a limited time, our office is offering 0% Down Financing on dental implants, making it easier to get the care you need without slowing down your smile goals.

Our financing options are designed to fit a wide range of budgets, allowing you to start treatment now and pay over time with comfortable monthly payments. Whether you’re replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth, this offer helps you receive high-quality implant care without financial stress.

We’re also conveniently located and incredibly easy to find, which is right across from the post office on Van Ness Avenue. You’ll find us at:

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental
14017 Van Ness Ave
Gardena, CA 90249

Dr. Afshin Doostan and our friendly team are committed to providing exceptional, personalized care in a welcoming environment. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to restore your smile, this is it. 

Call us today to or visit our site to schedule your dental implant consultation and take advantage of our 0% Down Financing Offer.

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

Teeth whitening is not just about achieving a brighter smile—it also provides several benefits that can positively impact your dental health. At Healthy Smiles Premier Dental, our team emphasizes the importance of maintaining both the appearance and health of your teeth. By opting for professional teeth whitening, you not only enhance your smile but also support the overall health of your smile.

Removal of Surface Stains

One key benefit of teeth whitening is the removal of surface stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco. These stains can accumulate over time, leading to discoloration. Whitening treatments break down these stains, providing a more uniform and clean apperance. This process can help prevent future buildup of plaque and tartar, which often cling more easily to stained teeth. A cleaner, smoother surface discourages bacterial growth and supports better oral hygiene.

Improved Confidence

Additionally, whitening can boost your self-confidence, encouraging more regular dental care. When people feel good about their smile, they tend to maintain it more carefully, leading to more frequent brushing, flossing, and routine checkups. This increased attention to oral health can help prevent cavities and gum disease, which are common concerns in areas like Gardena and Hawthorne.

In addition, professional teeth whitening, including the services offered by Dr. Doostan in Lawndale, is safer and more effective than over-the-counter options. The whitening agents used in a dental office are carefully regulated to avoid damaging enamel or irritating sensitive gums. When done correctly, teeth whitening can provide long-lasting results that promote healthier gums and teeth.

While the aesthetic benefits of teeth whitening are undeniable, the treatment’s impact on your dental health should not be overlooked. By removing stains and encouraging better oral hygiene practices, whitening can be a valuable tool for maintaining a healthy and radiant smile.

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

In Los Angeles, where smiles are as dazzling as the Hollywood stars, maintaining optimal dental health is a priority for many. One revolutionary procedure that has gained popularity is the All-on-X dental implant. This advanced solution can be life-changing for individuals who have lost multiple teeth or are facing complete tooth loss. But what exactly is an All-on-X dental implant, and why is it becoming a preferred choice for so many patients?

Understanding All-on-X Dental Implants

All-on-X dental implants, sometimes referred to as All-on-4, All-on-6, or All-on-8, depending on the number of implants used, provide a full arch of replacement teeth supported by a few strategically placed dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which are removable, All-on-X implants are permanent and ensure a healthy jawbone and aesthetic facial structure.

The Procedure

The All-on-X procedure begins with a comprehensive dental evaluation. Healthy Smiles Premier Dental employs advanced imaging techniques, including 3D scans, to assess the patient’s oral health and bone structure. This information is crucial in planning the precise placement of the implants.

On the day of the surgery, the patient is typically sedated to ensure comfort. The dentist then places the implants into the jawbone at specific angles to maximize support and stability. This strategic placement often eliminates the need for bone grafting, a common requirement in traditional implant procedures. Once the implants have been given time to integrate with the jawbone, which takes about 4-6 months, the new row of teeth is attached.

The Benefits

• Stability and Comfort: Unlike dentures, which can slip and cause discomfort, All-on-X implants are securely anchored in the jawbone. This stability allows patients to eat their favorite foods without worry.
• Bone Preservation: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that typically occurs with missing teeth. This helps maintain facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance often associated with dentures.
• Longevity: With proper care, All-on-X implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
• Enhanced Confidence: A beautiful, natural-looking smile can significantly boost self-esteem and improve quality of life.

Caring for Your New Smile

After receiving All-on-X implants, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups will help ensure the longevity of your new smile. Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions and be available for any questions or concerns you may have.

Remember that your implants need the same amount of care as your natural teeth. But if you maintain good oral hygiene practices, your implants can last for decades.

All-on-X dental implants represent a revolutionary approach to restoring smiles. For those in Gardena, Hawthorne, Lawndale, Torrance, and surrounding cities facing significant tooth loss, this procedure offers a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and functional solution.

If you’re considering All-on-X implants, schedule a consultation at Healthy Smiles Premier Dental. Our friendly team is ready to give you all the comfort and care you need throughout your dental implant procedure. Let us help you achieve the radiant smile you deserve.

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

Dental implants, the unsung heroes of tooth replacement, can truly transform your smile. But what if things don’t go according to plan? The signs of poor dental implants are visible and knowing how to address them can be beneficial to preserving your smile.

Picture this: the implant that was supposed to be your sidekick starts acting up. Persistent pain, a bit of wobbliness, and chewing becoming a chore—it’s like your dental superhero is having an identity crisis. This can indicate failed osseointegration, where the implant and jawbone haven’t formed that crucial bond. If you suspect this caper, don’t wait. Consult your trusted dentist pronto. Sometimes, a bit of tweaking or, in extreme cases, a replacement might be the key to restoring order.

Then there’s the villain called infection, lurking in the shadows. Swelling, inflammation, and discomfort around the implant—these are signals that something has gone wrong.  Don’t let the infection gain traction; swift action with antibiotics and professional care can be the hero your dental health needs.

In addition, it is important to not forget structural failures and fractures—every superhero’s nemesis. Sudden instability or the discovery of cracks can send alarm bells ringing. Consult your dentist at the speed of light. Depending on the severity, a repair or replacement might be in order.

Fixing poorly done dental implants often requires a superhero team, and that means collaborating with a skilled implant specialist. Seeking a second opinion is like assembling your superhero squad—the new expert will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the best course of action. Revisions, replacements or other cosmetic or emergency procedures may be part of the superhero journey, but with the right care and expertise, many implant-related issues can be vanquished, leaving your smile triumphant once again.

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

Porcelain veneers are like tiny works of art that can enhance your smile, but what happens when they don’t live up to your expectations? Recognizing the signs of poorly done veneers is your first step to restoring that confident grin.

Imagine you catch a glimpse of uneven color and texture when you flash your smile in the mirror. That’s a telltale sign that something might be amiss. Well-crafted veneers seamlessly blend with your natural teeth, creating a harmonious appearance. If you notice a mismatch, it’s time to take action.

Misalignment with Existing Teeth

Misalignment and poor fit are akin to a musical ensemble playing out of tune—they just don’t quite hit the right notes. Your veneers should follow the natural curve of your teeth, creating a symphony of perfection. If there’s a discordant note in the alignment, it’s worth bringing it up with your dentist.

Increased Discomfort

Then there’s the discomfort, the unwelcome guest at the dental party. While a bit of sensitivity is normal initially, persistent discomfort is like that guest overstaying their welcome. It might be due to improper bonding or a less-than-ideal fit, causing unnecessary pressure on your pearly whites.

If you spot any of these signs, it is important to take action. Schedule an appointment with your Gardena dentist. Share your concerns openly, and let them work their magic. In some cases, a few adjustments or refinements can turn things around. If the issues persist, consider seeking a second opinion from a reputable cosmetic dentist—a fresh perspective might be just what your smile needs.

Prevention, they say, is better than cure. So, before diving into the world of veneers, embark on a research journey. Check reviews, ask for those before-and-after snapshots, and have a thorough discussion about your expectations during that crucial consultation. Choosing a skilled and experienced professional significantly ups the odds of saying goodbye to poorly done veneers and hello to a radiant smile.

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

With a diligent oral hygiene program–brushing twice a day and flossing once, having a professional cleaning and a full dental exam twice a year–most problems with your gums and teeth can be prevented or caught early in their development.

But there are dental emergencies and it is important to be prepared when they occur and to know the different ways they should be handled.

Urgent Emergencies

There are what we class as urgent emergencies, such as an accident that results in bleeding or a knocked-out tooth, teeth that have been badly chipped or cracked, a toothache that is  very painful, or an infected root that needs to be cleaned out.

For a lost tooth, if you can retrieve it, hold it by the top (not the root), wash it in warm water, and put it in milk until you can have an urgent care clinic see if it can be put back in. You can keep down the swelling by putting a cold compress on the outside of your face nearest where the tooth was, then taking it off every 15 minutes for a couple of hours. Call Healthy Smiles Premier Dental during office hours and schedule an appointment as soon as available for your dentist to decide whether the tooth can heal or whether it needs to be replaced with a dental implant.

Damaged Tooth or Toothaches

A serious toothache may be due to a cavity, a damaged filling, infected gums, unconscious grinding down of teeth while you sleep (known as bruxism), or a dead root. Other symptoms may be a fever, throbbing that spreads to the ears and neck, sensitivity when you eat or drink anything hot or cold, or swelling of the face, and difficulty chewing, swallowing, or breathing. The cause needs to be diagnosed immediately, so if this is during our office hours, come in ASAP. Otherwise, go to an emergency room. Some of these, like a cavity, can be easily treated, others, such as an infected root, may require a specialist such as an endodontist or oral surgeon.

Chipped Tooth

If chipping or cracking are severe, rinse the area with warm salt water, use cold compresses, and you can put Dentemp from a drug store on the area before having it examined by a doctor immediately. Then come into Healthy Smiles so we can determine the best remedy, such as a full dental crown to hold together the tooth or a veneer to cover the chipped area.

There are also dental problems that are not as urgent, but need to be addressed as soon as possible in our office:

• Mild chipping or a hairline crack that are not yet causing significant pain.
• A minor cavity that is uncomfortable and needs to be removed and the area filled before it gets worse (a traditional remedy is to apply clove oil).
• A crown that comes off (put it back on with some dental adhesive and your dentist will determine if you need a new one).
• Food or some other object stuck between teeth.
• Teeth that are pushed out of alignment (don’t try to correct this yourself).
• Old dental work that is making chewing uncomfortable and needs to be redone. 

If you have not had a full dental exam and cleaning recently, make these a priority to avoid having a dental emergency.

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

When you are sick with a cold, the flu, or an even more serious illness, the last thing you may be thinking about is whether you need to worry about your oral health. But some effort does need to be made to keep your teeth and gums clean because an unhealthy mouth over even a few days, let alone the week or two of a typical cold, can lead to more than cavities or a gum infection. Poor oral health can significantly increase the risk for everything from diabetes to cardiovascular disease.

Feeling Better is the First Step

Helping yourself to feel a bit better is the first step to being able to put your attention on the health of your mouth. The common cold (which is the most common illness in the U.S.) is caused by the rhinovirus and there is no cure for a virus, but  you can alleviate symptoms such as congestion, notes WebMD https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/cold-remedies#1. Drink plenty of hot liquids, hold your head over a pot of hot water to inhale the steam, blow your nose gently while you press your finger over each nostril, and use a saline spray to clear your nose. Cold medications will suppress symptoms and, according to nutritionist Phyllis Balch’s Prescription for Nutritional Healing, traditional remedies such as frequent doses of vitamin C and herbal wellness formulas can boost your immune system to fight back.

Keep Your Oral Health in Top Condition

Whatever the illness, you should make the best effort you can to keep up your oral healthcare ASAP. Change your toothbrush immediately because it can harbor germs of all kinds, wash your mouth out with water and a dentist-approved mouthwash after breakfast and dinner, brush your teeth afterwards, and floss before you go to sleep at night. It is also best to eat lightly when sick so that your body can concentrate on healing, rather than digestion, just as animals do. When you do eat, avoid junk foods and sugary drinks, while eating mostly vegetables, complex carbohydrates like whole seeds, nuts, and grains, and healthy fats and proteins, all of which will give you the energy you need while in recovery.

Illness creates a lot of stress, of course, which can lead to depression and anxiety, and that can impact your immune system, so find ways to reduce it, such as not trying to work from home, but indulging in watching humorous movies or TV episodes, reading novels or fascinating nonfiction, or browsing magazines about places you would like to visit. If you know how to meditate or know someone who will teach you, this is the ultimate way to relax and de-stress.

As soon as your symptoms have subsided, return to your normal oral healthcare program and be sure to visit your dentist in Gardena for a full and free dental exam twice a year so we can catch any problems that may be in early development. We also offer cosmetic dentistry and serve Hawthorne, Lawndale, Torrance, and surrounding areas.

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

Have you not had a full dental exam or cosmetic dentistry in a long while, fearful that it might reveal a serious problem that will be expensive and painful to fix? The good news is that whatever your past experiences with other dental practices, Healthy Smiles Premier Dental, dentist in Gardena, can make any procedure virtually painless, thanks to a wide range of anesthetic options.

But we cannot reverse time or entirely undo the damage that was done by waiting, as cavities grew large, teeth became loose, or jawbone was eaten away by a periodontal infection. It is, however, never too late to have Dr. Doostan do a full oral exam, which might even give you some good news. But if you need dental treatment, he can explain your best options, ways to finance procedures, and your preferences with regards to preventing pain.

Relaxation Techniques

Some people like to start with breathing in nitrous oxide through a mask, which is relaxing and taps down anxiousness. A topical anesthetic followed by a pinprick of a local injection is usually adequate for most procedures. However, you can take a moderate or a strong pill for sedation (which will require you to be driven home by someone else afterwards). And for those who really want to sleep right through any surgery, we can put you under through an intravenous (IV) drip, so that you will not remember anything.

Music, Movies, or Books

It may just be that you have always felt anxious when going to the dentist or any doctor. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce anxiety and stay calm while in the dental chair. You can bring in a favorite playlist to listen to during a procedure, watch a movie or a TV episode, catch up on a favorite podcast, or listen to an author read a book that you put off for lack of time, getting lost in the story. 

You can also meditate: it doesn’t have to be anything formal, just a syllable (most famously “om”) or a short phrase to focus your mind while visualizing something like a candle flame or turning wheel.

Rhythmic Breathing Exercises

Doing rhythmic breathing, including counting as you breath in, hold it, and breath out (don’t worry about the exact seconds between them), is not only a good distraction and calming, but actually helps your overall well being.

You can also consciously focus on relaxing your muscles, starting with contracting your feet and then relaxing them, then moving up to the head. 

Call today to set a free dental exam with Dr. Doostan, serving the Torrance, Lawndale, Hawthorne, Carson, Redondo Beach, and Gardena areas. You truly will be glad you did, as your oral health will become better than ever.

Healthy Smiles Premier Dental

Everyone knows that eating too much sugar, especially if you don’t brush and floss thoroughly twice a day, can cause cavities (the second most common disease next to colds). You may also realize that sweets can feed bacteria that turn into the sticky film on teeth called plaque, which emits acid that eats away at the enamel. Plaque can also lead to gum infections and eventually the loss of teeth. Too much sugar also clearly can contribute to obesity.

So how to crush those sugar cravings and improve your overall oral health? First, it is important to understand why they occur. If you eat a candy bar (or the refined carbohydrates like white bread or pasta that quickly turn into sugar in the blood), you get a temporary rush of energy and mood boost. But then the body reacts to the excess of sugar, sending the hormone insulin to lower it, which often depresses blood sugar below normal, causing that craving again. That’s why the more sugary foods and simple carbs you eat, the more you want them.

There are many ways to prevent this vicious cycle, starting with eating less sugar (the average American consumes nearly 100 pounds a year, because it can be found almost everywhere, since it is used as a preservative). Because the more sugar you eat, the more you crave it: it’s like a drug. Fortunately, there are natural alternatives, like xylitol, stevia, and monk fruit, which do not cause that high and then crash. 

Another way to prevent the cravings is to eat more vegetables, whole grains, seeds, beans, legumes, and nuts, which are complex carbohydrates with fiber that take hours to digest, keeping your blood sugar steady. Protein and good fats can also prevent those cravings, so try a healthier and more balanced diet and you will be surprised at how the addiction to sugar fades.

WebMD says that you can also reach for fruit to satisfy a sweet tooth and eat something every 3-5 hours to keep blood sugar up.

Making sure you are drinking enough water (not sodas or energy drinks) can curb cravings and exercising or taking a walk can take your mind off eating (as can chewing sugar-free gum, which has the extra benefit of exercising your teeth and strengthening them).

Keeping track of the state of your oral health also requires having a full dental exam and a cleaning by your dental hygienist at least twice a year, so if you haven’t been into the office in a while, give us a call to set an appointment. 

More Helpful Articles on Cosmetic and Preventative Dentistry:

• Your Options for Treating a Tooth Fracture
• The Reasons Veneers can Turn a Smile Around
• Why You Need a Deep Cleaning