Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth. This common dental condition is challenging for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces. Without timely intervention, braces and bruxism can cause increased wear and tear on the braces and natural teeth. In severe cases, the damage can worsen, causing extreme discomfort. However, regular visits to a dental professional and proper management techniques can mitigate the effects of bruxism, ensuring good oral health throughout the orthodontic treatment.
Understanding Bruxism and Its Impact on Braces
As an orthodontic patient, it is essential to understand the relationship between bruxism and braces. Bruxism exerts excessive force on the braces and teeth, causing brackets to loosen or break and wires to bend or distort. In addition, the pressure from this dental condition increases discomfort associated with orthodontic adjustments, resulting in soreness and irritation. Here are management strategies to help you maintain maximum comfort without compromising the treatment.
Customized Night Guards
Wearing a customized night guard while sleeping is the most effective way to protect your braces and natural teeth from bruxism. Night guards provide a cushion that absorbs the forces generated by grinding or clenching, preventing direct contact between the upper and lower teeth. Dental professionals usually recommend night guards for people with braces to accommodate the brackets and wires. We can make a custom night guard for you to use while sleeping.
Regular Monitoring and Adjustments
Another effective management strategy is consistent monitoring by an orthodontist or dentist to identify signs of damage or misalignment caused by bruxism. In case of damage, you may be required to schedule regular adjustments to reinforce brackets, replace damaged components, or modify the treatment plan.
Bruxism is challenging for people undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces, but proactive management strategies can help them maintain a healthy smile throughout the process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to protect your braces and natural teeth from the harmful effects of bruxism.
For Patients Dental Haven | dentist Appleton WI 54915-4104 The following informative pages are provided to help prepare you and your family for a great experience in our family dentist office in Appleton, WI. Dental Haven - Dr Gonzalo Hernandez and Dr Alexandra Wetzel, 2612 E. Calumet Street, Appleton, WI 54915-4104 ^ (920) 739-6808 ^ dentalhavenwi.com ^ 2/9/2025 ^ Related Terms: dentist Appleton WI ^
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth. This common dental condition is challenging for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces. Without timely intervention, braces and bruxism can cause increased wear and tear on the braces and natural teeth. In severe cases, the damage can worsen, causing extreme discomfort. However, regular visits to a dental professional and proper management techniques can mitigate the effects of bruxism, ensuring good oral health throughout the orthodontic treatment.