How Teeth Grinding Can Damage Your Dental Implants

The most effective way to replace missing teeth is with the insertion of dental implants in Plano. However, their longevity depends on them being cared for properly. One way to extend the life of dental implants is to avoid teeth grinding (called bruxism). Continue reading to find out how the condition can increase the risk of implant failure and how to minimize the threat.

What Happens When a Dental Implant is Inserted?

Dental implantation consists of a titanium post being surgically inserted into the jawbone. After you’ve healed from the initial surgery, a titanium abutment is added that will anchor the final restoration in place. Like your natural teeth, the restoration will provide structural support and allow for adequate chewing.

Bruxism Explained

Many people deal with bruxism, with the habit often occurring at night while sleeping. Clenching the jaw can place a great deal of pressure on the teeth, gums and jaw structure, and the condition can lead to accelerated tooth wear. It also poses a considerable threat to dental implants, as the unnatural pressure can cause them to fail. The forces generated by the jaw muscles can be destructive in many ways, as they are strong enough to also damage cartilage, bone, tooth enamel and porcelain restorations.

If you’re prone to grinding your teeth, it’s important to let your dentist know before implants are placed. You don’t have to worry about this derailing your plans, as many patients require the same treatment prior to implantation. The dental implant procedure has a 95% success rate, and this can be attributed to the fact that dentists take the necessary precautionary steps before proceeding.

The Warning Signs of Bruxism

The first step to treating bruxism is to recognize the symptoms. You may experience morning jaw soreness, headaches, sore teeth or broken fillings. You should also pay attention to your habits throughout the day. Are you clenching your teeth when driving, concentrating at work or exercising? The more cognizant and responsive you can be, the better outcome you can expect.

Treatment for Bruxism

The typical way of treating bruxism is with a custom-made mouthguard that’s worn while sleeping. It’s designed to comfortably fit over the upper and lower teeth to prevent them from contacting.

Because bruxism is often stress related, you may consider some activities that help to calm your nerves. The following may be useful:

• Yoga
• Meditation
• Counseling
• Resistance training
• Breathing exercises
• Relaxing music before bed

By taking action and seeking treatment for bruxism from your dentist in Plano, you can better maintain your dental health and get on with replacing your missing teeth in a healthy and lasting manner!

About the Author

Dr. Bita Kamali is a graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry. With over 20 years of experience providing care, she still strives to expand her knowledge and skillset, taking hours of continuing education courses each year. Known for her gentle hands and calm demeanor, Dr. Kamali gives her patients a reason to smile by replacing their missing teeth with dental implants at Parkway Vista Dental. She can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through her website.