Looking into your restorative dentistry options? Teeth grinding (also known as bruxism) is common, affecting many people worldwide. This condition can lead to issues such as chipped teeth, cracked teeth, chronic headaches, TMJ disorder, and trouble sleeping. When tooth damage occurs as a result of teeth grinding, restorative dentistry is necessary to repair the areas of concern.
The type of restorative dentistry your dentist recommends depends on the severity of the damage and the location of the damaged teeth. Three main types of restorative dentistry for bruxism include dental crowns, composite bonding, and porcelain veneers. A dental night guard can help prevent future instances of tooth damage caused by grinding.
Dental crowns, also called dental caps, cover damaged teeth entirely. They are customized to fit the exact tooth they are placed over, and they offer cosmetic, functional, and oral health benefits. The main types of dental crown materials are ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, metal alloy, gold alloy, and ceramic. Each offers unique benefits. In general, porcelain fused to metal, metal alloy and gold are ideal for teeth further back in the mouth (premolars and molars), whereas more visible teeth are often better treated through a ceramic dental crown.
Composite bonding is a restorative dentistry procedure that involves the use of composite resin. The resin material is applied and bonded to the tooth to fix imperfections. When used to treat teeth that are damaged by grinding, composite bonding can lengthen the tooth and protect the deeper layers of the tooth structure. However, composite bonding is most appropriate for repairing minor damage. The resin material is also not as durable as a dental crown, particularly when used for premolars and molars. However, composite bonding is a good option (and a more affordable one) for more visible front teeth.
Porcelain veneers are layers of porcelain that are custom-crafted in a laboratory. They are placed over existing damaged teeth to restore the appearance and health of the tooth. When used for restorative dentistry after teeth grinding, porcelain veneers can fix shortened teeth, chips, and cracks. They are most appropriate for front teeth and those who choose them typically do so because of the cosmetic benefits they offer. Veneers attach to the visible surface of teeth, so they may not work as well for repairing molars and premolars that have worn-down enamel.
Of course, an ideal situation would be to never allow teeth grinding to affect teeth. One way to prevent further damage to teeth from bruxism after restorative dentistry is to wear a custom night guard from your dentist. This ensures teeth do not touch while the person is asleep, and they may also reduce the risk of jaw clenching as well.
You can learn more about teeth grinding prevention and restorative dentistry by calling our friendly team today. We can answer your questions and help you decide on the best course of treatment during a consultation visit.
Request an appointment here: https://crispinchangdds.com or call Santa Ana Dentistry at (714) 782-0357 for an appointment in our Santa Ana office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Restorative Dentistry in Santa Ana, CA.
If you have dental issues that have made you less confident in your smile, you should consider consulting with a restorative dentist. The dentist will evaluate your smile and let you know how to restore the look of your teeth and, ultimately, your confidence in your smile. Continue reading to find out what restorative dental…
The term dental restoration refers to a number of procedures used to repair or restore function and aesthetics to teeth that are in bad shape, whether it be due to cavities, imperfections, or abnormalities. Modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of many different types of dental restorations, including dental fillings, which are typically the…
If you have been involved in an auto accident, you may be considering the right types of dental restoration. The dental damage you may have suffered can be either indirect or direct. Indirect damage occurs when your mouth closes abruptly, while direct damage occurs when the mouth itself is hit. No matter what type of…
You know that you need a smile makeover when you are unhappy with your smile. Getting this makeover usually results in dramatic improvements. You may have denied yourself a dental treatment like this before, but maybe now is the right time to get one. If you are wondering whether it is time for you to…
Dental bonding is a common dental procedure that repairs damaged teeth (chips, cracks, etc.), fills in gaps between teeth and lengthens teeth that are worn down or naturally too short. Understanding the process that dentists use with dental bonding should help you decide if treatment is right for you. Although each dentist will have their own…
You know that you need a smile makeover when you are unhappy with your smile. Getting this makeover usually results in dramatic improvements. You may have denied yourself a dental treatment like this before, but maybe now is the right time to get one. If you are wondering whether it is time for you to…