Basics of Bruxism

If your teeth are worn, damaged, or sensitive, or if you have pain in your jaw, face, or ear, it may be time to visit our staff at Advantage Dentistry. These are common symptoms of bruxism, a condition in which you grind, gnash, or clench your teeth and the condition can have a variety of causes. Some experts view this issue as nothing more than a habit, but this habit can wreak serious havoc on your teeth, provoking you to endure invasive dental procedures in the future.

People with severe bruxism can break dental fillings or damage their teeth. Rubbing the teeth together can cause the outer layers of enamel to wear away, exposing dentin, which can lead to tooth sensitivity. Severe bruxism can also be the result of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders as well as unexplained facial pain. If our doctor determines that you’re a “bruxer” he or she will discuss the best way to treat the condition. The treatment of bruxism typically depends on the cause.

If you suspect that you may be a “bruxer,” please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about services we provide at the office, visit www.advantagedentistry.comfor more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our dentists at Advantage Dentistry in Kenmore, NY, call 716-877-2275.

Night Guards for Grinding and Clenching

Grinding teeth at night is a condition that many patients do not realize they have until their partner tells them they have heard them doing it. Teeth grinding (bruxism) can cause serious damage to the teeth, the jaw, and facial structures. At Advantage Dentistry in Kenmore, NY, we help our patients minimize the damage done by grinding their teeth with custom night guards.

Night guards are mouth guards specifically designed to stand up to clenching and grinding. They are custom-made so that they fit each patient’s mouth. They are a barrier between the top and the bottom teeth that provide the best protection and the best comfort. There are “one size fits all” mouth guards on the market, but they are often ill-fitting and uncomfortable for breathing.

We take impressions of your teeth so that a dental laboratory can create the mouth guard from scratch. They are made to be very durable and have the ability to be used for up to ten years. This will fluctuate with each patient, of course depending on the severity of their grinding.

Without any protection, clenching and grinding teeth can loosen fillings and other restorations, wear down enamel, and irritate the gums. Worn down or damaged teeth can create sensitivity and introduce routes for infection.

If you are a night grinder or suspect you are, come in for an examination. To schedule your appointment in our Kenmore, NY office, call Advantage Dentistry at (716) 877-2275 or visit our website, www.advantagedentistry.com.