4 Restorative Dentistry Procedures After Teeth Grinding

Unlike 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 Weatherford, 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 Millar Family Dentistry at 817-885-5214 for an appointment in our Weatherford office.

Recent Posts

How A Restorative Dentist Can Improve Your Oral Health

A restorative dentist provides various treatments that help to address issues that develop in your mouth. Restorative dentistry focuses primarily on performing treatments that restore the function of damaged teeth.Wondering how a restorative dentist can help to improve your oral health? Let us take a look at some of the most popular treatments performed by…

Understanding The Procedure For Dental Implants

Dental implants feel and function just like natural teeth, and they can last a lifetime. An implant is a rod or screw that is placed in the jawbone. It is usually made out of titanium, but it can also be made out of zirconium.Dental implants replace missing teeth roots, and restorations like crowns are placed…

What You Should Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a long-term solution for people missing one tooth or multiple teeth. This tooth replacement option can restore the function and appearance of your smile. While dental implants are an effective treatment option for many patients, there are several important factors to consider before undergoing this procedure. Here is what you should know…

Millar Family Dentistry

Share
Published by
Millar Family Dentistry

Recent Posts

Understanding the Procedure for Dental Implants

Dental implants feel and function just like natural teeth, and they can last a lifetime.

15 hours ago

What You Should Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a long-term solution for people missing one tooth or multiple teeth. This…

5 days ago

Maintaining Oral Health After a Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are excellent options for restoring dental function and aesthetics in patients with missing…

2 weeks ago

What to Expect When Receiving Dental Implants

Approval for dental implants puts you one step closer to restoring a complete, healthy smile.…

3 weeks ago

What Exactly Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants secure artificial teeth in place, acting as replacement tooth roots. Thus, a general…

4 weeks ago

How a Family Dentist Uses Dental Bonding

If you have damaged teeth, you can use a process called dental bonding to fix…

1 month ago