Replacing Missing Teeth with Dental Implants in Slidell
If you grind your teeth, you might wonder: can I still get dental implants? The short answer is yes, but with careful planning. Bruxism puts extra pressure on your teeth and jaw, which can affect how well your dental implants hold up over time.
If you have questions or need to consult with a dentist, call our Slidell dental office at (985) 214-2844 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve patients from Slidell, New Orleans, Hattiesburg, Biloxi, and nearby communities.
What Is Bruxism? Our Slidell Dentist Explains
Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding and jaw clenching. It usually happens during sleep but can also occur when you’re awake, especially during periods of stress or concentration. It’s considered a sleep-related movement disorder and can lead to a range of dental and muscular issues if left untreated.
Bruxism Symptoms
Symptoms of bruxism often include:
- Loud grinding sounds during sleep
- Worn, cracked, or flattened teeth
- Tooth sensitivity or pain without a clear cause
- Sore jaw or limited jaw movement
- Headaches or migraines upon waking
- Facial pain or tightness
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Disturbed sleep patterns
Contact our dentist in Slidell today to schedule an evaluation by calling (985) 214-2844.
How Bruxism Affects Dental Implants
Dental implants in Slidell are designed to be durable, but they’re not indestructible. The repeated pressure from bruxism can cause:
- Micro-fractures in crowns or implant structures
- Loosening of the implant fixture
- Bone loss around the implant due to repeated stress
- Increased wear on surrounding natural teeth
How to Treat Bruxism Before and After Getting Dental Implants
Custom Night Guards
Custom night guards in Slidell are among the most common and effective solutions. A night guard cushions your teeth and prevents direct contact between upper and lower teeth during sleep.
Stress Management
Since bruxism is often linked to anxiety or stress, learning relaxation techniques, like meditation, breathing exercises, or therapy, can reduce teeth grinding.
Correcting Bite Alignment
Misaligned teeth or bite issues (malocclusion) may contribute to bruxism. Our Slidell dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment or occlusal adjustments.
Medications
In severe cases, short-term use of muscle relaxants or medications to manage anxiety or sleep disturbances may help.
Botox Injections
Some patients benefit from Botox, which relaxes the jaw muscles and reduces clenching intensity. Not every dentist offers Botox.
Best Types of Dental Implants for Bruxism
Zirconia Implants
- Ceramic-based, highly durable
- Resistant to corrosion
- Aesthetic advantage: tooth-colored material
- Biocompatible and metal-free
Titanium Implants
- Stronger and more flexible under pressure
- Proven long-term success
- Biocompatible and widely used in clinical settings
- Slightly more visible under thin gums, but often hidden with a proper crown design
To get started with dental implants, contact our Slidell dentist today at (985) 326-1711.
Are You Still a Candidate for Dental Implants If You Grind Your Teeth?
Yes, you can still be a candidate for dental implants if you have bruxism—but with some precautions:
- Our dentist may delay implant placement until your bruxism is managed.
- You may need to wear a custom night guard long-term.
- Our dentist may use specialized implant materials or techniques to reduce stress on the implant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dental implants near me?
Dr. Daigle offers dental implant services right here in Slidell, LA. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, dental implants provide a durable, natural-looking solution. Schedule a consultation to see if implants are right for you.
Do dental implants hurt?
Most patients report only mild discomfort during and after the dental implant procedure. Dr. Daigle uses gentle techniques and local anesthesia to ensure you stay comfortable. Some soreness or swelling is normal after surgery, but it’s typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
Can I get dental implants without insurance?
Yes, you can still receive dental implants even if you don’t have insurance. Dr. Daigle’s office offers flexible payment plans and financing options to help make treatment accessible. We’re happy to work with you to find a solution that fits your budget.
Address Your Bruxism Today With Dr. Daigle!
If you have bruxism, it’s essential to work closely with our dentist near you to find the best treatment options and choose the right type of implant to ensure the best possible outcome. With proper care and treatment, dental implants in Slidell can provide a long-lasting, natural-looking replacement for missing teeth, even for individuals with bruxism.
Call our trusted dentist in Slidell at (985) 214-2844 or book online to schedule your next dental appointment in Slidell. We’re proud to serve patients from Slidell, New Orleans, Hattiesburg, Biloxi, and surrounding communities — helping you protect your smile for life.