Prime Smile’s Blog

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can significantly impact dental work, especially crowns. If you’ve invested in dental crowns in Birmingham, AL, it’s crucial to understand how bruxism may affect them and what you can do to protect your investment.  

Whether you grind your teeth during the day or while you sleep, there are effective solutions to manage and prevent damage to your dental crowns.

How Teeth Grinding Affects Dental Crowns

Bruxism can lead to several issues that compromise the integrity of dental crowns, affecting both their functionality and appearance. Here’s what happens when bruxism and crowns collide:

1. Excessive Wear and Tear

• Crowns are designed to withstand normal chewing forces, but the pressure from bruxism is often much higher.

• Continuous grinding can wear down the crown's surface, reducing its effectiveness and causing it to chip or crack over time.

• Metal crowns are more resistant, but porcelain and ceramic crowns are particularly vulnerable.

2. Loosening of Crowns

• Bruxism can loosen crowns over time, particularly if the grinding is severe. This can occur when the crown experiences repeated stress, causing the bonding material to weaken.

• Loose crowns are prone to shifting, creating gaps that trap food and bacteria, leading to further dental problems.

3. Fractures and Breakage

• Even the strongest crowns, such as those made from zirconia, can fracture under extreme grinding pressure.

• A fractured crown may expose the underlying tooth, making it vulnerable to decay or infection if not treated promptly.

Preventing Damage to Dental Crowns from Bruxism

Preventive measures are essential for those with bruxism to protect their crowns. Here are effective strategies:

1. Wearing a Custom Night Guard

• A custom-fitted night guard helps cushion the teeth, reducing the pressure exerted during grinding.

• It protects natural teeth and crowns by acting as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth.

• Night guards are typically made of durable materials designed to withstand grinding forces.

2. Monitor Stress Levels

• Stress is a common trigger for bruxism. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can reduce stress and the tendency to grind teeth.

• Some individuals find relief through physical activities that help release tension, such as jogging, swimming, or strength training.

3. Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups

• Regular visits to your dentist help identify signs of bruxism early, allowing for prompt intervention.

• Dentists can assess whether your crowns show signs of wear and provide solutions, such as reinforcing the crowns or adjusting your bite.

• They may also recommend monitoring tools, like apps or wearable devices, to track grinding patterns.  

Solutions for Existing Damage to Crowns Caused by Bruxism

If you’re already experiencing issues with your crowns due to bruxism, there are several solutions your dentist might recommend:

1. Rebonding or Replacing Crowns

• Your dentist may rebond loose or shifting crowns to ensure a secure fit. If the crown is damaged beyond repair, replacement may be necessary.

• Replacing a crown involves taking new impressions and crafting a custom fit to withstand grinding pressure.

2. Adjusting the Bite

• Sometimes, the issue isn’t just bruxism but an improper bite alignment. Adjusting the bite through minor dental procedures can reduce grinding and its impact on your crowns.

• Dentists may use orthodontic treatments or reshaping techniques to correct the alignment, ensuring a balanced bite that minimizes pressure on crowns.

3. Reinforcement with Stronger Materials

• If your current crowns have been damaged, your dentist might suggest replacing them with stronger materials like zirconia or metal, which are more resistant to bruxism.

• Reinforced crowns offer better longevity, reducing the likelihood of needing frequent replacements.

Protect Your Dental Crowns in Birmingham, AL!

Bruxism can seriously affect your dental crowns, but you can protect your smile with the right prevention strategies and solutions. If you need expert advice on managing bruxism or maintaining dental crowns, contact Prime Smile Dental Care today for comprehensive care and support.