Clenching or Grinding

Clenching Or Grinding At Night

Bruxism

An incredibly common occurrence, especially in today’s world. Many people report wearing away of tooth structure from grinding in their sleep or clenching. The reason for this is up for debate, but stress in considered a contributing factor. If not managed, the chronic slow wearing of the enamel can accumulate, leading to a chipping of front teeth, gradual loss of tooth structure resulting in poor aesthetics and in extreme cases, fractured restorations and weakened teeth. 

Bruxism can be managed with the use of a hard splint or night guard. The night guard material is softer than the tooth material and takes the wear instead of the teeth. Over time, it acts to weaken the muscle reflex that causes the clenching at night, reprogramming the jaw muscles to relax when asleep. Night guards experience wear and tear and will eventually need to be replaced.

What to Expect

If you are seeing Dr. Minkov for the first time:

• Dr. Minkov will listen to your story and your requests for what you want to have looked at. A preliminary history of your previous dental experience. He will hear out your dental goals: any recent issues you may be having with your teeth or aesthetic changes you want to achieve. 
• Dr. Minkov will have to do a full examination(link to routine exam) of your teeth and gums, including x-rays to put together a full picture of the current condition of your mouth, identify anything that may need treatment or prevention so that we can combine your goals, your past and present to recommend a way forward that fits with you.