Grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that is believed to affect around 22 percent of people worldwide. Unfortunately, if left untreated it can cause a lot of damage, especially if you have dental implants. Here’s how grinding your teeth can put you at a higher risk of dental implant failure, and what you can do to protect your newly restored smile!
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the name for a condition where you unconsciously grind your teeth or clench your jaw. Although it commonly occurs during sleep, it can happen while you’re awake, especially during times of high stress like when you’re stuck in traffic or in a tense work meeting.
Bruxism can cause jaw pain and stiffness, as well as damage to your teeth and dental implants because of pressure from your bite on your other teeth.
How Does Bruxism Put Dental Implants at Risk?
Because your dental implants are secured to your jaw with metal posts that integrate into the bone, they have a remarkably high success rate of 95 percent. Unfortunately, however, because the pressure from your biteforce is so strong, it can sometimes cause damage to your dental implant crowns and outright dental implant failure if you grind your teeth.
What Can I Do to Protect My Dental Implants?
Because many people don’t even realize they’re grinding their teeth, it can be a hard behavior to stop. The good news is that your dentist offers a solution that can help. A mouthguard or bite guard can be custom made to protect your teeth and dental implants. These devices work by absorbing the pressure from your biteforce, thereby cushioning them and protecting them from excess wear, damage, and failure. If you believe that you may be grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw, schedule an appointment with your dentist to be evaluated for bruxism.
Remember, although dental implants have an impressive 95 percent success rate, they can still fail, and if you have untreated bruxism, you can increase those odds dramatically. Thus, to protect your dental implants as well as your natural teeth, speak to your dentist today about treating your bruxism and protect your smile for a lifetime!
About Dr. Glamm
Dr. Jayme Glamm earned her bachelor’s degree at Ohio State University and her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Since graduating, she has been passionate about her pursuit of continuing education through prestigious organizations such as the Dawson Academy and Spear Education. She is an active member in a variety of professional organizations such as the American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, Columbus Dental Society, the Pierre Fauchard Academy, and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. To schedule an appointment for dental implants at Glamm Dentistry, visit our website or call us at 614-487-0112.