If you often wake up with a sore jaw, it is possible that you grind and clench your teeth at night. This condition, known as bruxism, is fairly common. However, it is also quite damaging to oral health. If you brux and are missing one or more teeth, it is only natural to wonder if your bruxism will prevent you from getting dental implants. The good news is that teeth grinding is not an absolute contraindication for tooth replacement. The bad news is that bruxism and dental implants have a negative relationship. Let’s talk more about how teeth grinding can affect implants and what you can do to protect your smile.
Bruxism and Dental Implants
Normal chewing exerts 20 – 40 pounds of pressure on teeth (perhaps more on the molars). Bruxism, on the other hand, might expose your teeth to up to 250 pounds of pressure! That is more than six times more than what your teeth are exposed to when you chew!
The immense pressure created by bruxism can cause significant damage to natural teeth, causing them to crack or lose their enamel prematurely. Dental implants also suffer under the force of bruxism. The restorations on top of them may be more prone to damage and may require much more frequent replacement than you originally planned for. Even worse, bruxism can damage your jawbone. As a result, the dental implants could become loose or perhaps fail altogether.
Successful Implant Treatment with Dental Implants
The above information might seem to paint a grim picture, but even people who brux may be able to get dental implants. When you visit your dentist for your consultation, they will look for signs of bruxism and suggest possible ways to put a stop to it. For example, you might have to start wearing a special type of mouthguard while you sleep that will stop your top and bottom teeth from touching each other. You might also have to undergo treatment for TMJ problems and consider how you can reduce the amount of stress you are under. If your dentist is reasonably sure that your bruxism will not lead to dental implant failure, you may be approved for the treatment.
After you receive dental implants, it is important that they be closely monitored. If they ever feel loose or painful, call your dentist. It is also vital that you attend regular checkups with your dentist so they have the opportunity to intervene while problems are still in their early stages.
Bruxism doesn’t have to wreck your teeth or prevent you from enjoying top-quality tooth replacement! Your dentist is ready to help you rebuild your smile and protect your oral health.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Walter Mick has more than 30 years of experience in dentistry. He is proud to offer start to finish dental implant care as well as treatment for bruxism. If you are ready to learn about how you can replace your missing teeth, Dr. Mick and our team will be pleased to speak with you. Contact our office at 614-864-4618.