When looking to find a dentist, we recommend that you visit our office and have your teeth checked for signs of bruxism. If you have not heard of this technical term, it is when people grind or clench their teeth at night or throughout the day when they are not eating. This condition, while seemingly minor, can lead to a cracked or chipped natural or replacement tooth along with enamel erosion, causing sensitive teeth.
Those with bruxism typically have teeth that appear flat on the bottom. Naturally, teeth tend to have points where bruxism causes the enamel to wear down. Those with a severe degree of bruxism may start to see their teeth erode upwards as more of the tooth structure begins to wear away. This is often seen in young children who grind their teeth at night. Another common sign is indentations on the tongue.
Bruxism can lead to severe erosion of the enamel. When looking to find a dentist, a patient struggling with bruxism needs to select a dentist that treats erosion because of how uncomfortable it can be once the enamel on the teeth wears away. The enamel serves as a protective barrier, ensuring that the dentin underneath is not exposed since dentin is more porous and contains nerve endings. Once the enamel has worn away, anything that one eats or drinks; even air can cause irritation.
If the enamel only wears away slightly, we can use fluoride to help strengthen the teeth or perform a bonding procedure. If, however, much of your enamel has worn away we will need to seal in the dentin and the best way to do so is by placing a dental crown on the tooth. This performs two functions: it prevents anything from touching the tooth in order to protect it and restores the tooth's appearance. Regardless of how worn down the natural tooth is, a dental crown can typically restore it in both functionality and appearance.
Once your teeth are protected and restored, we must move to prevent bruxism from reoccurring since it will also damage your restoration. One of the ways to do so is by providing you with a night guard. These look like a full retainer, but they do not allow the teeth to touch at night, making it impossible to clench your teeth or grind them in your sleep.
We also suggest that patients also avoid touching their teeth together during the day. Many people mistakenly believe that their teeth have to touch at all times. This can further the likelihood of the wearing down the enamel on the teeth and begin experiencing jaw pain. Instead, allow for the jaw and teeth to remain in a relaxed state when one is not eating and when one does eat, be careful with chewing. Be purposeful yet gentle.
If you need to find a dentist, we recommend giving Stone Canyon Dental a call at (972) 996-3191 so that we can examine your teeth and ensure you are in excellent oral health and if you have bruxism or some other condition, we can recommend a treatment plan.
Sterile dental environments are crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy space for both staff and patients. Without sterilization efforts, both parties are at risk of spreading or developing an illness. Thankfully, there are a number of ways to maintain a sterile dental environment. Continue reading to find out moreOutlined below are a few ways…
Bacteria, diseases, and viruses can spread rapidly, anywhere and anytime, which is why dental office sterilization is so important. Dental offices can be breeding grounds for this spread, as the oral cavity contains a lot of bacteria. However, with the right sterilization practices, dental offices can ensure a safe, clean, and healthy space for everyone…
Our dental office wants you to expect more from dental care. While most of our patients come to realize the value and having their teeth examined and cleaned on a regular basis, you should think beyond these teeth cleaning appointments.As a dentist, we understand the true value of maintaining your natural teeth and gums throughout…
There are many reasons you need to go to a dentist office. Good oral hygiene is the main one, and we recommend that you visit our office biannually to receive proper care for your oral health.A: You might have a cavity if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity. It is wise to see a dentist as…
If a general dentist recommends fluoride treatments, patients may express concerns about the lasting effects of fluoride. They may also wonder whether eating and drinking are possible immediately afterward. Fortunately, fluoride is one of the easiest dental treatments to undergo with little to no waiting period and great benefits in the long term. Just a…
Fixing a broken tooth right away is important. This dental damage may seem like nothing more than a cosmetic problem, but it can lead to terrible consequences. Seeing a dentist sooner rather than later can provide immediate relief. If you want to find out the treatments for a broken tooth and its complications, here are…
