A dental implant can be used to replace a tooth that is missing from the mouth. An implant-based restoration is a great option for tooth replacement because the restoration replaces every basic component of the lost tooth.

The actual implant is a screw or rod made of titanium metal. During a surgical procedure that is performed in your dentist's office, the implant is inserted through the gums into the bone of the jaw to serve as a prosthetic tooth root. Once the dental implant is in position, the device begins to heal into place. 

The healing process that occurs within the jawbone is called osseointegration. As osseointegration occurs, the cells of the jawbone integrate or assimilate with the implant, securing it firmly in position.

Osseointegration takes place over the course of several months. After the process is complete, the gums are contoured around the implant. Subsequently, a separate procedure is performed to install an abutment that will connect the implant to a dental cap, and finally, the dental crown is installed.

After a dental implant-based restoration is complete, the patient's new tooth should last a lifetime. However, complications that may occur during the healing process of the implant wound can cause the device to fail. 

Statistically, an implant failure is unlikely. However, a failure remains possible, and its likelihood increases with certain conditions, such as bruxism. Here is a bit of information about bruxism and why it can hamper the success of an implant-based restoration.

Bruxism

Bruxism is a relatively common condition in which patients repeatedly grind or clench their teeth. Episodes of bruxism often occur at night while a patient sleeps and may be caused by other underlying conditions, such as dental misalignments and stress.

Bruxism's Effect on Osseointegration

Since the success of a dental implant is largely dependent on osseointegration, bruxism can pose a significant problem. The pressure from the teeth grinding can prevent osseointegration from occurring, causing an implant to fail.

Avoiding Implant Failure from Bruxism

People with bruxism can still receive a dental implant, but they must wear a mouth guard at night to help eliminate much of the grinding pressure. A customized guard that fits the exact contours of a patient's mouth can be obtained from a dentist. The customized fit is important since a poor fit can make it difficult for the patient to rest with the guard in place.

If you grind your teeth at night and are interested in receiving a dental implant, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.