Bruxism

Persistent tooth grinding (bruxism) can be noted during the hard tissue oral examination at your recare visit. The characteristic feature of wear on the teeth is the development of flat, shiny surfaces on the biting surfaces or tips of the teeth. Facial pain and a sore, stiff jaw are symptoms indicative of tooth grinding. Not only are wear patterns noted, but fractures of the teeth and restorations present can also occur with excessive grinding. A special appliance, called a bruxism appliance or occlusal guard, may be recommended and made in the lab to eliminate the wear on the tooth surfaces and restorations as well as the facial pain and joint aches. If you have symptoms of grinding, be sure to bring this up during your examination, as we will also discuss it if we note findings contributing to the wear of the teeth.