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 Forest Hills, NY.

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 Gentle Touch Dental Care at 718-924-2387 for an appointment in our Forest Hills office.

Related Posts

Tips And Advice On How To Make Your Dental Veneers Last Longer

Dental veneers are an investment. Getting these restorations is a significant decision. The permanence of having these shells on your teeth needs commitment. Knowing how to make these restorations last longer can help motivate you to care for them even more. Here are some advice and tips on how to make your dental veneers last…

Key Differences Between Dental Veneers And Dental Crowns

Dental veneers and dental crowns are restorations that can change the appearance of your teeth. Though they are different procedures, people often confuse the two. This article will review the key differences between crowns and veneers to help you better understand which procedure is right for you.A dental veneer is a thin covering for a…

3 Questions To Ask Your Dentist Before Getting Dental Veneers

Seeing your dentist for dental veneers will start with a consultation. This is the right opportunity to find out more about this treatment. Understanding the process means asking the right questions. Here are three questions to ask your dentist before you get your dental veneers.If the patient chooses temporary veneers, these restorations are not attached…

Gentle Touch Dental Care

Share
Published by
Gentle Touch Dental Care

Recent Posts

Tips and Advice on How to Make Your Dental Veneers Last Longer

Dental veneers are an investment. Getting these restorations is a significant decision. The permanence of…

2 days ago

Key Differences Between Dental Veneers and Dental Crowns

Dental veneers and dental crowns are restorations that can change the appearance of your teeth.…

7 days ago

Smile Makeover With Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are ideal for patients who want a long-term solution to achieving a brighter…

2 weeks ago

Emergency Dentistry Visits for Common Tooth Accidents

Sometimes, even the most conscientious patients end up going to an emergency dentist.

2 weeks ago

Dental Veneer Aftercare: Healing After Getting Veneers

Dental veneers are porcelain or composite resin shells that fit over the front of the…

2 weeks ago