Oral health problems can occur while we are sound asleep. We may be completely unaware of their existence until complications arise. The grinding and clenching of your teeth, known as bruxism, will wear down your enamel if left untreated. It can cause an uneven bite and make your teeth feel sensitive as well. While it can be difficult to discover a habit that takes place while unconscious, the team at your Ankeny, IA dentist office is here to help. We can examine the surfaces of your teeth and determine interventions to prevent future damage from grinding and clenching. We can also offer cosmetic and restorative solutions to repair the appearance and function of your smile.
Identify the Constant Grinding of Teeth
The effects of grinding and clenching your teeth become worse the longer they are not addressed. You may develop pain in your jaw and muscle stiffness. Your bite can become uneven as the grinding creates cracks and chips in the enamel. Your normal brushing and flossing can become painful as tooth sensitivity increases, which may deter you from proper hygiene practices. However, if you stick to a semiannual schedule of appointments with your dentist, we can identify the problem at your regular checkups and cleanings. Our team can spot the signs and offer a custom appliance to prevent future grinding and further damage to your teeth.
Repair The Damage To Your Smile
After identifying the signs of bruxism, we may suggest a restorative or cosmetic solution to existing wear and tear on your teeth. For instance, bonding and contouring can improve the appearance of your smile without dramatically altering the underlying structure. Cosmetic tooth bonding can address chips and cracks in your teeth through the application of a resin that is colored and shaped to blend in with the natural tooth. Conversely, contouring can lightly sculpt the rough edges of teeth after many nights of grinding to restore an esthetic appearance.
We will seek the most conservative approach to solve your dental needs, but sometimes a cosmetic solution is not enough. Restorative procedures repair the function as well as the appearance of your damaged material. If grinding cracks or breaks one of your teeth, our office may recommend a dental crown. Placing a crown will mimic a tooth’s shape and return your normal biting and chewing ability.
Contact Your Ankeny, IA Dentist to Treat Teeth Grinding
Treating the clenching and grinding of your teeth can prevent serious oral health complications from arising in the future. For more information and to schedule a visit, contact your Ankeny, IA dentist at 515-207-6182. We also serve patients from Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and any other surrounding community.
