Dental Implants for Bruxism

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is the grinding of teeth. It’s often linked to stress and lifestyle. Bruxism occurs mostly at night. The pressure of teeth grinding is very powerful.

The tooth enamel wears off to the point where the nerves of the teeth become visible and sensitive to hot and cold. Teeth may also break and fall out. Teeth can be replaced and covered by a full bridge.

Basal or conventional dental implants for bruxism?

Conventional dental implants are not a good solution for bruxism. They are too short and are placed in the soft, spongy bone of the gums, which cannot withstand the pressure of the teeth grinding. The dental bridges move and the conventional implants become loose.

Basal dental implants are the best solution because they are longer and fixed in the cortical bone, which is deeper and harder. It gives strength and stability to the complete 14-crown bridge, which is made from a single block. It welds all the dental implants together.

For patients with bruxism, it’s best to choose PFM metal-ceramic crowns because it’s the hardest material. Composite, for example, is too soft and can crack. If the enamel of a metal-ceramic crown is damaged by teeth grinding, it can be repaired in the mouth without removing the prosthesis. 

If you suffer from bruxism, ask your dentist to make you a mouthguard to wear at night. This will protect your teeth and help you sleep better, reducing the impact of the teeth grinding.