If you have missing teeth that you need to replace, dental implants might be one option you’re considering, However, despite their impressive, 95% success rate, there are still things out there that can threaten their ability to restore smiles. But is chronic teeth grinding, or bruxism, one of these things, or can you still get implants if you suffer from this condition? Here’s what your dentist wants you to know.
What Exactly Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a common condition, though the term itself is not so common. It simply refers to a chronic condition characterized by repetitive teeth grinding or clenching due to things like stress, misalignment problems, or even missing teeth. Bruxism places an excessive amount of pressure on the teeth that can eventually damage them or wear them down. The condition can also cause complicated jaw issues that necessitate treatment. And even worse, since it often happens during the nighttime, it’s sometimes difficult to diagnose and treat without professional assistance. That said, it’s still treatable with various means, with one common one being oral appliance therapy.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
When it comes to dental implants, they rely on the support of a healthy jawbone to remain healthy and resolute. This is due to their unique design; titanium implant posts are embedded directly into the jawbone, where they eventually fuse with it in a process called osseointegration. This allows the implants to fully restore the lost tooth’s entire structure from the roots to the crown. The result is a lasting solution that fully restores a smile’s beauty and functionality.
How Does Bruxism Impact Dental Implants?
Since dental implants rely on the jawbone for support, it’s reasonable to assume that bruxism can impact them. One of the key factors to dental implant success is osseointegration, so if you’re continually grinding and clenching your teeth, the implants will not be able to fuse with your jaw as intended!
Can I Still Receive Dental Implants If I Have Bruxism?
Luckily, your dentist can help you to manage your bruxism prior to clearing you for dental implants. When you visit them for a consultation, they’ll check for things that could jeopardize implants including gum disease, inadequate jawbone density, and signs of bruxism. If you do suffer from bruxism, they might need to walk you through possible bruxism treatment options, including things like stress management therapy or physical therapy combined with facial exercises to relieve the tension around your jaws. In other instances, custom-made nightguards can protect your teeth at night and encourage them to shift back into the correct position.
Fortunately, having bruxism does not entirely rule out dental implants as a tooth restoration option; with a little teamwork between you and your dentist, you can prevent the damage caused by bruxism and ensure your mouth is a suitable environment for implants!
About the Practice
The skilled team at South Florida Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is thrilled to provide patients in the Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, and Royal Palm Beach communities with an outstanding level of care! They offer several kinds of restorative treatments that can easily address compromised smiles, including tooth-replacement options like dental implants. If you have any questions about implants or would like to set up a consultation, you can contact the practice online or by phone for information. Jupiter location: (561) 529-9261.