The physical and psychological effects of tooth loss are significant. Although dental implants are the most effective treatment for this issue, some patients may be hesitant to get them if they also grind their teeth.
Because dental implants are so costly, avoiding bruxism (the medical name for involuntary teeth grinding) is essential. Keep reading to find out how you may control your bruxism and protect the health of your implants. A family dentist in Kokomo can get you help.
What kind of damage does teeth-crushing do to implants?
Osseointegration is the fusion of a dental implant with the jawbone to create a stable foundation for replacement teeth. Once the implant post is surrounded by new bone, it will be firmly fixed.
Dental implant posts must not move about during the osseointegration process. Grinding consistently might cause dental implants to wear out faster.
There is a higher chance of the implant failing if the process is interrupted by movement.
How can I get help for my bruxism?
Mouth guards are frequently used to prevent tooth damage caused by bruxism. These are mouthguards explicitly made to suit your teeth and keep your upper and lower teeth from touching as you sleep.
Biting down on a mouth guard made of sturdy acrylic will not cause any damage to your teeth. Because your bite force is dispersed across a broader region, the material cushions your teeth less.
If you are experiencing bruxism, it can help to determine why you do it. Think about the times when you do it the most. You should strive to alleviate the mental stress and worry contributing to the grinding motion.
Other changes to your daily routine may also help. Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee and tea, should be avoided after dinner, and alcohol consumption should be reduced.
Consult your dentist about custom-made implants.
Yet another alternative is discussing with your dentist regarding the design of the implant.
- The power of your bite might be dispersed more evenly if the implant is mounted on a thicker post.
- If you do not want your implant to touch any of your other teeth, you can have it shaped that way.
- Your dental implant’s longevity may vary depending on the substance it is constructed of.
Dental implant therapy is often still an option for people who grind their teeth nightly despite the difficulties this can cause. With the help of a mouth guard and careful implant planning, you may reduce the effects of this condition and protect your smile for the long haul.