Bruxism is the technical term for grinding your teeth on a nightly basis. Over time, the unnatural stresses applied to the tooth enamel on the biting surfaces of your back teeth can lead to dental distress. This could come in the form of enamel attrition and small dental fractures.
If the compromised area of tooth enamel is small, Dr. Daniel Wood may be able to repair the tooth with a composite dental filling. Composite fillings are the only restorative material used for fillings at our office because they resemble your tooth’s natural color.
The first step in the process involves numbing the tooth and surrounding gums to keep you comfortable throughout the treatment. Then Dr. Daniel Wood will remove the decayed enamel. This will provide a clean, healthy enamel surface for the final filling to adhere to.
Next, the space will be shaped to make it ready for the filling material. A base or a liner may be put in to protect the tooth’s pulp. With a bonded filling, the tooth will be prepared with an acid gel. This makes tiny holes in the tooth’s enamel surface, and composite material fills in the holes. Our dentist will also use a bonded filling to help lower the risk of decay under your filling.
Once it has been applied and shaped to be flush with the surrounding tooth enamel, Dr. Daniel Wood will use a special ultraviolet light to cure the filling. This will harden the filling and ensure a strong bond with the remaining tooth enamel.
With the tooth fully repaired, Dr. Daniel Wood might also advise you to sleep with a dental guard in your mouth. This soft plastic mouthpiece can protect your teeth from further bruxism complications.
If you live in the Twin Falls, Idaho area and you have a tooth chipped by chronic night grinding, we invite you to call 208-733-0494 to have it treated and repaired by Dr. Daniel Wood. Our dedicated dental team is always happy to help you with your smile care needs!
