Bruxism: How Teeth Grinding Damaged Veneers and How to Prevent It

Many people grind or clench their teeth without ever realizing it. Known clinically as Bruxism, this habit typically occurs during sleep. Over time, the intense pressure of grinding can lead to worn-down enamel, chronic jaw pain, headaches, and fractured teeth. Crucially, bruxism is also one of the leading causes of cosmetic failure, capable of chipping or popping off expensive porcelain veneers and crowns.

Signs You Are Grinding Your Teeth

Since grinding usually happens while you sleep, many patients only discover they have bruxism when they notice symptoms. Common indicators include waking up with dull headaches, soreness in the jaw muscles or TMJ, unexplained tooth sensitivity, or a bed partner hearing grinding noises at night.

The Damage Caused by Bruxism

Grinding exerts up to 250 pounds of pressure per square inch on your teeth. This force can cause:

1. Enamel Attrition: Worn-down, flat biting surfaces that expose the yellow dentin layer beneath.

2. Fractures & Chips: Stress fractures that weaken the tooth structure, eventually leading to breaks.

3. Veneer & Crown Damage: Cosmetic restorations are strong, but they are not designed to withstand continuous shear forces from grinding. Bruxism can chip ceramic edges or break the adhesive bond, causing veneers to dislodge.

How Custom Nightguards Protect Your Investment

The most effective solution for bruxism is a custom nightguard. Fabricated from a precise digital scan of your mouth, this slim, comfortable appliance fits over your upper or lower teeth.

Rather than preventing you from grinding, the nightguard acts as a durable protective barrier. When you clench or grind, your teeth wear down the smooth plastic of the guard instead of damaging your enamel or cosmetic porcelain restorations. It also cushions the jaw joint, significantly reducing muscle tension and TMJ headaches.

Over-the-Counter vs. Custom Nightguards

If you suspect you grind your teeth or have recently invested in cosmetic veneers, protect your smile. Contact AVF Dental Group in Aliso Viejo at (949) 360-9700 to scan for a custom nightguard.