The Long-Term Impact of Bruxism and How Periodontists Can Help

Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, and without effective bruxism treatments, the condition can lead to significant damage. Teeth grinding harms your teeth and your gums, jaw, and overall oral health. A periodontist is a gum specialist who can help repair the damage bruxism causes and provides you with tools to help prevent future damage.

How Bruxism Impacts Oral Health

Constant grinding or clenching wears down tooth enamel, making teeth more prone to damage and decay, but the effects of bruxism go beyond the teeth. Bruxism can damage the gum tissue, increasing the risk of gum recession and periodontal disease. Additionally, the condition can strain the jaw muscles and joints, leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, headaches, and facial pain. When left untreated, these complications can have ripple effects on one's oral and even physical health.

Repairing Bruxism Damage

If bruxism has already caused damage, a periodontist can provide comprehensive solutions for the gums, teeth, and jaw. Periodontists can also address the gum recession often caused by bruxism.

Repairing Gums and Teeth

Periodontists are uniquely equipped to offer gum repair and tooth replacement due to being specialists in treating gum conditions. Gum grafting procedures help restore the gum line, protect tooth roots, and enhance the appearance of one's smile. If teeth grinding has resulted in tooth loss, a periodontist can help the patient replace missing teeth with dental implants.

Addressing the jawbone

For patients experiencing jaw bone loss due to bruxism-related periodontal disease, bone grafting procedures can regenerate lost bone to support the teeth or prepare the jaw for dental implants or other restorative work. In cases of TMJ disorders caused by bruxism, a periodontist may collaborate with other specialists to address joint and muscle pain.

A Periodontist’s Role in Preventing Bruxism Damage

Periodontists can play a key role in preventing damage caused by bruxism. One of the most effective bruxism treatments is the use of custom-fitted nightguards. These oral appliances are tailored to fit snugly over the teeth, creating a protective barrier that absorbs the force of grinding and prevents further wear.

In addition to bruxism treatments, periodontists focus on prevention and patient education. Because so much teeth grinding happens at night when the patient is unaware of it, a dental provider is often the first to notice the problem. A periodontist can work closely with the patient to identify early signs of bruxism, such as worn tooth surfaces, jaw soreness, or gum sensitivity.

Bruxism treatments to protect your gums, teeth, and oral health

Bruxism may seem like a minor inconvenience, but its long-term impact on your teeth and gums can be profound. With the help of a skilled periodontist, you can repair existing damage, prevent future issues, and protect your oral health for years to come. If you suspect you grind your teeth or are experiencing related complications, call our office today to learn more about bruxism treatments from a periodontist.

Request an appointment here: https://www.westtexasperio.com or call Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (432) 538-3318 for an appointment in our Odessa office.

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