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When appearance and function need to work together

The bruxism, or clenching and grinding of the teeth, can place significant stress on teeth and restorations.


Over time, this condition can contribute to enamel wear, changes in tooth shape, and the development of small defects or fractures.


For anyone looking to improve the appearance of their smile with veneers, bruxism should therefore be carefully assessed.


In some cases, veneers can be used to restore the shape and appearance of the teeth, but managing bruxism and protecting the restorations are integral parts of the treatment plan.

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is an activity of the chewing muscles that may involve clenching or grinding the teeth.

It can occur during sleep or, for some people, during the day as well.

Possible signs may include:

  • worn or flattened teeth;
  • small chips;
  • jaw muscle tension;
  • muscle fatigue upon waking;
  • increased tooth sensitivity;
  • discomfort in the temporomandibular joint.

The presence of one or more of these signs is not enough on its own to make a diagnosis: a dental assessment is needed.

Bruxism and veneers: why assess them together?

Veneers are cosmetic restorations designed to bond to the surface of the teeth.

Bruxism can subject them to repeated forces, especially when clenching or grinding.

That is why, before proceeding with cosmetic treatment, it is important to assess:

  • whether bruxism is present and its characteristics;
  • the condition of the enamel;
  • the extent of tooth wear;
  • bite;
  • how the upper and lower teeth fit together;
  • any existing restorations;
  • the condition of the joint and muscles, when indicated.

This assessment helps determine whether and how veneer treatment can be planned.


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Can I get veneers if I have bruxism?

Having bruxism does not automatically rule out veneers.

However, treatment requires more careful assessment than in a case without risk factors.


Depending on the situation, the dental professional may decide to:

  • first monitor tooth wear;
  • address the causes or contributing factors;
  • consider a different restorative option;
  • plan veneers with the bite contacts in mind;
  • plan protective measures for the restorations.



The treatment approach is tailored to each individual's needs.


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Veneers for teeth worn down by bruxism

When grinding has caused significant tooth wear, the issue is not just cosmetic.


Loss of tooth structure can change the shape of the teeth and, in some cases, how the upper and lower teeth fit together.


Before restoring the smile, it is therefore important to understand:

how worn the teeth are → why they have worn down → how they come into contact → which solution can restore their shape and function

Only after this assessment can it be determined whether veneers are appropriate or another type of restoration would be preferable.

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The treatment process

Initial assessment

The teeth, gums, bite, and signs of wear are examined.



Bruxism assessment

The dental professional assesses whether you clench or grind your teeth and evaluates the characteristics of the habit.



Treatment plan

It is determined whether the functional issue needs to be addressed first or whether cosmetic rehabilitation can proceed.



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Design and application

If veneers are recommended, their shape, size, and bite relationships are planned with the needs of the individual case in mind. The restorations are made and fitted according to the clinical protocol.





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Daytime and nighttime bruxism

Clenching and grinding can occur at different times.


During the day, some people may unconsciously clench their teeth, especially when concentrating or feeling tense.


During sleep, bruxism may occur without the person being aware of it.


That is why it is important to tell your dentist about any signs such as jaw pain or tension, tooth wear, or discomfort upon waking.

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Health first, then aesthetics

When bruxism is present, designing a new smile means considering much more than just the appearance of the teeth.


A thorough assessment helps identify the causes of wear, how to manage the forces involved, and which cosmetic solution may be suitable for your individual situation.


Book a consultation at GoldClinique to assess the health, function, and appearance of your smile together.

Frequently asked questions

  • هل يمكنني تركيب الفينير إذا كنت أصرّ على أسناني؟

    قد يكون ذلك ممكنًا في بعض الحالات، لكن يجب تقييم الجزّ على الأسنان قبل العلاج. وينبغي للطبيب مراعاة درجة التآكل والإطباق والقوى التي ستتعرض لها الترميمات.



  • هل يعالج الفينير الجزّ على الأسنان؟

    لا. الفينير ترميمات تجميلية، ولا يُعد علاجًا للجزّ على الأسنان. ويجب تقييم الجزّ والتعامل معه ضمن خطة علاجية مخصصة.



  • هل يحمي واقي الأسنان الفينير؟

    قد يُنصح بعض المرضى باستخدام جهاز واقٍ للحد من خطر تعرض الأسنان والترميمات للقوى. لكن يجب أن يصفه الطبيب ويصممه وفقًا لحالة المريض.



  • هل يمكنني تركيب الفينير إذا كانت أسناني متآكلة بالفعل؟

    يعتمد ذلك على مقدار التآكل وسببه. في بعض الحالات، قد يساعد الفينير على استعادة المظهر الجمالي، بينما قد تتطلب حالات أخرى ترميمات مختلفة أو خطة علاجية أكثر شمولًا.



  • هل يمكن أن يتسبب الجزّ على الأسنان في كسر الفينير؟

    قد تزيد القوى الناتجة عن إطباق الأسنان أو صريرها من الضغط على الأسنان والترميمات. لذلك، يجب أخذ وجود الجزّ على الأسنان في الاعتبار عند اختيار العلاج والتخطيط له.



  • كم تدوم تركيبات الفينير عند الإصابة بالجزّ على الأسنان؟

    لا يمكن تحديد مدة موحدة تناسب الجميع. ويعتمد خطر التآكل أو التلف على شدة الجزّ، والإطباق، والمادة المستخدمة، وتقنية الالتصاق، وعدد الأسنان المعنية، ووسائل الحماية المتبعة.



  • هل يجب أن أرتدي واقي الأسنان مدى الحياة؟

    تعتمد الحاجة إلى استخدامه ومدة ذلك على الحالة، ويحددهما الطبيب. ويمكن متابعة العلاج وتعديله مع مرور الوقت وفقًا للاحتياجات.



"Get the dream look you deserve"

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See you soon,


Dr. Andrea Aru
Medical Director of Gold Clinique
Cosmetic Dentist
Creator of the Gold Clinique Method
Dr. Aru Andrea, registration no. 361 – Sassari Order of Dentists