Posted on 4/1/2025 by Durham Prosthodontics Office
Dentures are a great option for people who have lost some or all of their teeth. They can help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. However, if you suffer from bruxism, it's important to be aware of the potential problems it can cause for your dentures.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a condition that causes people to grind, gnash, or clench their teeth. It can happen during the day or night, and many people don't even realize they're doing it. While some teeth grinding is normal, excessive bruxism can wear down your natural teeth and damage your jaw joints.
How Can Bruxism Affect Dentures?
Bruxism can put extra stress on your dentures, which can lead to several problems, including:
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Cracks and chips: The force of grinding your teeth can cause your dentures to crack or chip.
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Loose dentures: Over time, bruxism can loosen the fit of your dentures. This can make it difficult to eat and speak, and it may also cause your dentures to rub against your gums, causing irritation and sores.
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Jaw pain: Bruxism can also lead to pain in your jaw joints and muscles.
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Headaches: In some cases, bruxism can even contribute to headaches.
What Can You Do?
If you think you might have bruxism, it's important to see your dentist. They can diagnose the problem and recommend treatment options. In some cases, they may recommend wearing a mouth guard at night to protect your teeth and dentures from damage.
There are also some things you can do at home to help manage bruxism, such as:
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Avoiding caffeine and alcohol: These substances can make bruxism worse.
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Reducing stress: Stress is a common trigger for bruxism, so finding ways to manage stress can be helpful.
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Relaxing your jaw: Throughout the day, take time to check in with yourself and consciously relax your jaw muscles.
Conclusion
Bruxism is a common condition that can damage your teeth and dentures. If you think you might have bruxism, be sure to see your dentist so they can evaluate your situation and recommend treatment options.
About Durham Prosthodontics | Durham, NC Durham Prosthodontics specializes in advanced restorative and cosmetic dental treatments, including implants and bridges. Schedule your consultation today! Dr. Geoffrey Cunningham and Dr. Kyle Gazdeck, 3709 University Dr Suite D, Durham, NC 27707 ^ (984) 312-7056 ^ mydurhamdentist.com ^ 4/23/2025 ^ Page Phrases: dental implants Durham NC ^
Dentures are a great option for people who have lost some or all of their teeth. They can help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. However, if you suffer from bruxism, it's important to be aware of the potential problems it can cause for your dentures.