Parafunctional Disease
What Is Parafunctional Disease?
Most people are familiar with cavities and gum disease, but you may not be familiar with the term parafunctional disease. The word parafunctional refers to other than the natural functioning of the teeth and supporting structures. In dentistry we refer to normal function of the teeth as how the upper teeth and lower teeth relate to each other during chewing of food. Parafunctional disease refers to habits you may have that are harmful to your teeth and supporting structures, and in some instances, may result in the loss of teeth. With parafunctional disease, we are our own worst enemy. Grinding (or bruxism), clenching, tongue thrusting, and fingernail biting are some of these harmful habits.
What Are Some Of The Signs Of Parafunctional Disease?
Most people are familiar with cavities and gum, but you may not be aware of parafunctional disease.
- Wearing away or erosion of the top surfaces of molars and bicuspids.
- Round holes, called wear facets, or depressions on the sides of molars and bicuspids
- Wearing away or erosion of the biting surfaces of anterior teeth.
- Scalloped edges of the tongue or ridges on the cheek.
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Bony growths on the roof of the mouth or near the
sides of your tongue called tori and
exostoses. - Fracture lines on the enamel of your teeth called stress fractures.
- Fractured teeth, crowns, or restorations.
- Loose or mobile teeth.
- Teeth pushed out of position
- A history of many teeth that have had endodontic treatment.
- Erosion or abfraction of the enamel surface or the root surfaces of teeth.
What Can I Do About My Disease?
Early diagnosis is the key to preventing continuing damage to the teeth, supporting gums and bone. When a diagnosis is made for parafunctional disease, a treatment plan is developed to first repair the damage followed by techniques to prevent further loss of structure. Dr. Carol Austin can rebuild the teeth and occlusion with tooth colored materials. Also, there is a wide variety of preventive measures, such as tension releasing exercises or teeth guards, we can suggest to help a person keep their teeth fully functioning for the rest of their life.
We take pride in providing comfortable, quality dental care.