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://www.cosmeticdentistoffice.com or call Rachel Cole DDS PC at (503) 248-1114 for an appointment in our Portland office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Restorative Dentistry in Portland, OR.
Your restorative dentist can bring back the integrity of your damaged teeth. Dental damage can result from decay or injury. Your teeth may crack or chip. You may even lose a tooth. Repairing or replacing your teeth is important for your health and well-being. Here are the details about how your restorative dentist can restore…
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 services of a restorative dentist are vital for your oral health and your appearance. If you are unhappy with your smile, you can take comfort to know that help is available. When you go to the dentist’s office for treatment, there is a variety of options to restore your teeth. Your dentist will examine…
As a restorative dentist in Portland, we have a variety of solutions that we use to restore dental damage to teeth, decay or erosion. As solutions go, dental crowns are one of the most innovative and have the broadest range of applications in the dental world. Dental crowns can give teeth a new lease on…
Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on studying, diagnosing, and treating issues that affect the gums and the bone structures that support teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading dental problem that periodontics focuses on.Periodontal disease is an infection of gum tissues caused by the bacteria in plaque and tartar getting below the gum…
As you will discover, there are many differences between an endodontist and a general dentist. Seeing the right dental professional is the first step to taking good care of your teeth. Keep in mind that some general dentists perform the same procedures as an endodontist. However, not all do.The easiest way to think of an…