Reasons to Consider Tooth Replacement in Owatonna and Burnsville, Minnesota

Posted by dakotavalley-oms on May 14th, 2023

Good oral health starts with the proper foundation. To keep one's teeth healthy, brushing and floss regularly is important. This helps remove food particles and plaque that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Proper nourishment for teeth comes from consuming a well-balanced diet high in calcium, vitamins, and minerals. Tooth replacement may sometimes become necessary despite one’s best efforts to maintain good oral health.

Tooth decay: Replacing teeth due to decay is a common need. If tooth decay is not treated, it can advance to a stage where the tooth becomes severely damaged, and extraction becomes the only viable option. An investment in tooth replacement in Owatonna and Burnsville, Minnesota, can fix this problem. 

Gum disease: Gum disease is another leading cause of tooth loss. As the gum tissue and bone that support the teeth become infected, they may begin to recede, leading to loose teeth that eventually require extraction.

Trauma: Accidents, falls, and sports injuries can all lead to tooth loss. In some instances, a tooth may be lost entirely through forceful impact, while in other scenarios, it can sustain severe damage that cannot be fixed.

Congenital conditions: Some individuals may be born with missing teeth or teeth that fail to develop correctly. In these cases, tooth replacement may be necessary to restore proper function and appearance.

Malocclusion: Malocclusion, or a misaligned bite, can cause undue stress on the teeth and lead to premature wear and tear. In severe cases, tooth replacement may be necessary to correct the bite and prevent further damage.

Who are the right candidates for tooth replacement?

Losing one or more teeth because of decay, injury, or other dental problems can make tooth replacement an option that is worth considering. Not everyone is suitable for tooth replacement in Owatonna and Burnsville, Minnesota. 

Following are some considerations that determine if someone is a suitable candidate for tooth replacement:

Adequate bone density: When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are a popular choice. It is important to have enough bone density to ensure the implant is properly supported. Some individuals with low bone density might need further procedures, like bone grafts, to properly prepare the location for the insertion of an implant.

Good overall health: Tooth replacement procedures, particularly dental implant surgery, require a patient to have good overall health. This means that patients with uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders may not be suitable candidates.

Commitment to oral hygiene: Proper oral hygiene is essential for the success of any tooth replacement procedure. Patients who are committed to regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental checkups, are better candidates for tooth replacement.

Realistic expectations: Tooth replacement procedures can restore oral function and improve appearance but are not a miracle solution. Patients with realistic expectations are better candidates for tooth replacement.

Age: Tooth replacement is not limited by age, but older patients may need to consider underlying health issues or additional dental procedures.

For those considering tooth replacement, it is crucial to seek guidance from a qualified dental professional to assess the feasibility of this option. They can evaluate the patient's oral health, discuss treatment options, and provide guidance on the best course of action for restoring their smile.