4 Restorative Dentistry Procedures After Teeth Grinding

4 Restorative Dentistry Procedures After Teeth Grinding from Heather Feray Bohan, DDS, PA in Tomball, TXUnlike general dentistry, which focuses on routine examinations and treatment, restorative dentistry is a specialization focusing on the repair or replacement of damaged or missing teeth. Bruxism is a fairly common condition that causes the clenching and grinding of teeth. While no single cause exists for bruxism, the results of teeth grinding are well documented. Teeth are worn down and damaged from continuous wear, and many patients require restorative treatments to correct bite deficiencies.

4 procedures to treat bruxism effects

While restorative dentistry can remedy many effects of bruxism, rushing into treatment may be a mistake. Without understanding the condition or curbing the habitual behavior, a patient may damage any corrective work. If restorations are undertaken but the patient continues to grind excessively, it may require further remedial dental treatments, causing further stress. However, that does not mean patients must simply endure their smile being worn down. There are four procedures to deal with bruxism damage, including handling the behavior itself.

1. Mouthguards

Before seeking any surgical treatment, a patient should mitigate further tooth loss and prevent damage to any repairs made. Mouthguards or mouth splints are the two methods most often used to curb the grinding of teeth. Primarily used for patients with sleep bruxism, the device is a plastic sheath that creates a protective barrier over the teeth, eliminating direct tooth-on-tooth grinding. Mouth splints are smaller than mouthguards and thicker, increasing the longevity of the product and its usefulness.

2. Crowns

Dental crowns are caps that cover a damaged tooth to protect it against further wear. Bruxism patients often wear down the enamel (the hard outer layer of a tooth) causing cracks or breaks in the surface. A crown keeps the remaining enamel from wearing away, reducing the risk of further tooth decay or the potential loss or removal of the damaged tooth or teeth.

3. Veneers

Unlike crowns, which fit over the teeth, veneers only attach to the front of the teeth. However, these thin porcelain sheets still restore and protect the integrity of a damaged smile. Veneers can be a less invasive procedure than crowns, but patients should consider the durability of the application. Veneers chip and wear out more quickly than a crown, and for bruxism patients, that is a significant concern.

4. Bonding

Many patients who suffer from teeth grinding may prefer dental bonding because it is a cost-effective and straightforward procedure. Dentists use an inexpensive composite resin adhered to the damaged teeth. The resin is then shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth, allowing patients to have the appearance of a natural smile.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Restorative Dentistry in Tomball, TX.

Conclusion

For bruxism patients, restorative dentistry can restore sheen and brilliance to a damaged smile. However, it is crucial to curb the habitual behavior of teeth grinding before investing in dental restoration. Failure to first control the behavior can lead to repetitive and costly repairs. A dentist can help create a treatment plan to remedy teeth grinding and the resulting damage.

Request an appointment or call Heather Feray Bohan, DDS, PA at 281-864-1581 for an appointment in our Tomball office.

Recent Posts

What To Do When You Have A Chipped Tooth

There are many possible causes of a chipped tooth. Opening packages with your teeth, biting down on hard foods or objects and facial trauma can chip teeth. Whatever the cause, a chipped tooth can bring discomfort and make your teeth less appealing. Fixing a chipped tooth when you first notice it can prevent further problems.…

3 Material Options For Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are the most popular way to restore teeth that are in bad shape due to decay, injury or other imperfections. Modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of many different material choices, all of which offer their own pros and cons. Keep reading to learn about three options that general dentists recommend. Outlined below…

Can A Broken Tooth Be Saved?

Dealing with a broken tooth? Read on to learn about how a dentist can help. A broken tooth is one of those injuries that tend to occur at the worst possible times. You’re having fun one second, and your tooth is broken the next. It might be a tasty treat you bite into, a fall,…

Recent Posts

What To Do When You Have A Chipped Tooth

What To Do When You Have A Chipped Tooth

There are many possible causes of a chipped tooth. Opening packages with your teeth, biting down on hard foods or objects and facial trauma can chip teeth. Whatever the cause, a chipped tooth can bring discomfort and make your teeth less appealing. Fixing a chipped tooth when you first notice it can prevent further problems.…

Material Options For Dental Crowns

3 Material Options For Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are the most popular way to restore teeth that are in bad shape due to decay, injury or other imperfections. Modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of many different material choices, all of which offer their own pros and cons. Keep reading to learn about three options that general dentists recommend. Outlined below…