Did you know: 1) Behind most dental failures is grinding clenching 2) Even w/ regular care cavities & gum disease, you can still loose your teeth grinding/clenching
Three levels Grinding/Clenching: 1) Mild 2) Moderate 3) Destructive
Behind most, if not all, failed dental care -- including loose implants, broken filling, chipped crowns, cracked teeth, mobile teeth, failed root canals, broken bridges, cervical erosions, broken retainers, -- is an oral disease known as destructive parafunction.
Parafunctional behavior consists of a variety of chewing system activities that are harmful to your teeth and jaw, including:
- Teeth grinding
- Teeth clenching
- Tooth bracing
- Object biting
- Muscle bracing
- Gum chewing
Parafunction Effects & Treatment
According to recent studies, 90% of patients with parafunction are unaware of their habit. Because most grinding and clenching of teeth occurs subconsciously at night, and emotional distractions during day, patients usually aren't aware of the harmful effects. If you happen to catch yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, take note. Parafunction can cause pain, tension headaches, severe wear, displaced disc, and arthritis TMD. It is a behavior that can cause both minor and major damage to your gums, bones, teeth, muscles and joints.
Due to the complexity of this behavior, and the fact that nearly all patients experiencing oral parafunction are doing it subconsciously, there is often a management system put in place for destructive parafunction treatment, rather than a cure. Through management techniques including the use of an orthopedic appliance, and identifying an individual's behaviors that cause clenched teeth, you will be that much closer to overcoming your oral parafunctional behavior.
Schedule an Appointment to Manage Your Oral Parafunction at Raleigh Facial Pain Center
Whether you are suffering from teeth clenching or tongue biting, these habits can be destructive. If you notice yourself developing constant tension headaches, jaw pain, face pain, tooth pain or ear pain, you may be suffering from this hidden oral disease. If you need help controlling your bruxism, also referred to as parafunction, reach out to the Triangle’s most experienced facial pain specialist at Raleigh Facial Pain Center.
We have years of experience helping patients manage their oral parafunction, and we look forward to helping you lead a fuller, healthier life.
