Managing Bruxism Prior to Implant Surgery

The latest literature says that as many as 40 million Americans have bruxism, also known as compulsive teeth grinding, in some way or form. According to HealthDay, about five percent of Americans with bruxism cause so much damage to their teeth as a result, prompting them to visit orthodontists for treatment. That said, experts also say that treating the cause of bruxism is preferable to fix the resulting damage:

If you grind your teeth due to stress, the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery says you may be able to prevent the problem by seeking professional counseling or by using strategies to help you relax.

Also, try cutting down on alcohol and caffeine. If you need extra help to prevent tooth damage, your doctor or dentist may recommend dental devices called bite plates or bite splints, designed to prevent your teeth from rubbing together.

Bruxism could disqualify people from getting a dental implant procedure, something they would inevitably need if their condition persists for a long time. In any case, a periodontist from a practice like the Cody Dental Group, for example, would need to perform tests to see if a patient is qualified to get dental implants in Denver in the first place. Fortunately, no clear relationship between bruxism and dental implant failure has been established. In addition, advances in dentistry have made bruxism easier to manage, which means that those with the condition have a good chance of successful implant surgery.

Having said that, dental implants must be properly designed to suit an individual’s needs. Clinicians use certain thread characteristics to ensure that the implants have as large a surface area as possible in order to minimize the pressure inflicted upon them. Implants are inserted at a certain angle so they can absorb pressure through the periodontal ligaments rather than the bone itself.

Patients must also treat their implants with care. Orthodontists agree that the main challenge for people with bruxism is ensuring that people who wear Denver dental implants do not inflict excessive force on the devices, which typically occurs when people consciously grind their teeth. During sleep, grinding can be prevented by wearing an ‘occlusal guard’ or a similar dental appliance that closes the mouth in place.

Around 40 million Americans have renewed hope knowing that bruxism does not have to prevent them from receiving dental implants after all. With the right techniques and devices, this condition does not have to be an impediment to successful dental correction and restoration.

(Source: Health Tip: Are Your Teeth in a Grind?, Philly.com, September 26, 2014)