Posts Tagged ‘tooth grinding’

Effect of Bruxism on Dental Implant Success

Friday, May 1st, 2009

Experts as well as practitioners of the dental profession differ in their opinions and beliefs when it comes to effect of bruxism on dental implant success. There is really no standard followed if bruxing should be a major concern if a patient will undergo implants.

It is still upon the dentist and the patients or both if they will consider bruxing as a major factor in some decisions of their dental procedures. The reason for this one is because there has been no research or studies that will support if the two are link or not.

In order to put some light into this situation let us explore both sides. Let us get the opinion of dental experts who recognize that Bruxism has a destructive influence on the success of a dental implant procedure.

It is also beneficial if we will get knowledge from dental experts who do not see bruxing as a major concern in dental implants. Our aim is not to prove which side is right or wrong. Our main goal is to let our readers get the best of each side. Please have an open and objective mind while each side is being explored. In this way you will be able to absorb all the important things that you should know. If you are a patient who will undergo dental implants, this is very crucial for you. Read and be enlightened.
It is crucial to address Bruxism first

If my patient wants to have a dental implant, I see to it that I have verified all dental problems that have influence on the outcome of the procedure. The dental problems must be recognized and addressed first before undergoing any procedure like dental implants.
It is one of my ways to protect my patient from future problems. I make sure that everything is alright before I proceed with any dental implants. One of the dental problems is Bruxism.

We all know that the force produced by the grinding and clenching of the teeth is detrimental to the implants, especially if the bone is healing. You see, our natural teeth have a unique feature we call periodontal ligaments. Through these ligaments it can withstand movements and absorb shock brought about by vertical and horizontal forces.

Bruxism as we all know is the parafunctional habit of a person when he clenches and grinds his teeth at night or every time he sleeps. This activity poses several minor and major threats to our dental health.

In a simple example, two surfaces are undergoing friction, applying to each other a tremendous amount of force. Each one will be worn down and it is highly probable that they will also change their position due to the dislocating force they received from each other. The example given below is just a similar description of the effect of Bruxism on a dental implant.

Bruxism is not a major concern
It is never a hindrance for me if my patient has this parafunctional habit or not. I consider it as a minor factor of the outcome of any dental procedures, to be specific, dental implants. What I do is let my patient wear a mouth guard. It is as simple as that.