If you have ever clenched or ground your teeth, you are not alone. According to one estimate, bruxism affects up to 30% of people. While this condition can harm your natural teeth, you may wonder how it might influence your experience if you wish to replace missing teeth with dental implants. This blog post discusses what you need to know about the relationship between bruxism and dental implants. It also shares steps you can take to protect your oral health.
How Bruxism May Affect Your Dental Implants
Bruxism can present several obstacles to dental implant treatment. Some of its potential consequences include:
- Bone loss in your jaw: Long-term clenching or grinding may result in bone loss. If your jawbone becomes too weak or thin, it may not provide the necessary support for dental implants.
- Failed osseointegration: For dental implants to function as artificial tooth roots, they must bond strongly with your jawbone. Excessive pressure from bruxism can disrupt this process and may even cause the dental implant to fail.
- Damage to surrounding tissues: Even after successful placement and osseointegration, dental implants still face some risks. Continued pressure from clenching or grinding may generate subtle movements in the implants, which can injure the surrounding bone and gum tissues.
Is It Possible to Receive Dental Implants If You Grind Your Teeth?
If you are concerned that bruxism will prevent you from getting dental implants, talk to a qualified implant dentist about your worries. They may be able to come up with a treatment plan that allows you to move forward with tooth replacement. Here are some encouraging points to keep in mind:
- Bruxism is treatable: Your dentist may recommend a specialized nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep. If you notice that you clench or grind during the day, you can explore strategies to stop. Approaches such as stress reduction through meditation or lifestyle changes may help.
- A bone graft may be necessary: If your jawbone has been compromised, a bone graft can strengthen it and make dental implants possible.
- Dental implants might help reduce bruxism: Implants can restore the function and harmony of your bite. As a result, you may notice a decrease in clenching or grinding.
Bruxism is certainly not good news for dental implants, but you should not automatically assume that you are not a candidate for this form of tooth replacement. Hopefully, you will soon be on your way to a restored smile.
Meet the Practice
Dr. David and the team at Blue Wave Dental are proud to provide comprehensive dental implant services in a welcoming, modern environment. As a true expert in the field of implant dentistry, Dr. David is able to handle even very complex cases. To learn more about our practice and how we may be able to serve you, contact our Walnut Creek office at 925-934-3395.