Excessive teeth grinding, known as Bruxism, can severely damage your teeth if left untreated. Nearly 80% of teeth grinding is done subconsciously while you are sleeping at night, and is often due to stress and anxiety. It's often hard to pinpoint what is the cause of your pain or irritation, so it's important to visit your Van Nuys dentist to get a solution sooner than later. 

Teeth Grinding and Night Guards

Dental appliances called Night Guards protect your teeth from grinding. The guard is custom designed for your teeth, and is worn at night when grinding is the heaviest. To learn more about what your oral pain could be, be sure to contact our friendly dental staff!

Our team here at Saticoy Plaza Dentistry understands the stress (and sometimes pain!) that comes with an unexpected dental emergency. This is why we do our best to accommodate patients in case of any dental emergency.

Dental emergencies can include chipped teeth, severe oral pain, and knocked out teeth.

Emergency Dental Appointments in Van Nuys

Call us at (818) 708-9889 if you are experiencing any dental discomfort and want to be seen immediately. We will schedule you in as fast as possible and provide the necessary treatments or prescriptions to get you out of pain. In some cases, we may be able to fit you in on the same day. 

 X-rays may be taken at the emergency appointment to assist in diagnosing any potential problems. Getting you smiling again is top priority!

If your teeth are starting to appear worn, shorter, and chipped in some areas, you are not alone.

What Causes Worn Teeth?

Every day more and more stress is put on our teeth. We put stress on our teeth when we chew our foods and when we grind our teeth. Most teeth grinding takes place at night while we are asleep, so many of us are unaware that we do it.

As we add this stress to our teeth, they become more brittle. The teeth begin to wear down, appear shorter, and alter your bite. Eventually, your teeth will begin to chip away, and in more severe cases, even fracture.

Using Nightguards for Teeth Grinding

Nightguards (also known as occlusal guards) are appliances we fabricate here, to help protect your teeth from grinding. They are custom designed to fit your teeth, and are significantly more comfortable and effective than any over-the-counter nightguard. You wear the nightguard to bed, and it protects your natural teeth and your existing dental work from further damage caused by grinding.

If you've been noticing your teeth appearing shorter or chipping, ask our Van Nuys dental office about having a nightguard made for you!

Gum disease is an infection that attacks the supporting structures of your teeth. It often develops because of poor brushing and flossing habits. Bacteria-filled plaque collect on your teeth, and, if not removed, hardens into a substance called tartar that spreads below the gum line.

How Gum Disease Develops

In its earliest stage (gingivitis), you may notice tender, inflamed, or swollen gums, and bleeding when you brush. Gingivitis can usually be controlled with extra professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene. Without treatment, the infection spreads to the next stage, periodontitis, which can ultimately lead to tooth loss.

One of the reasons gum disease is so widespread is that it can do damage to your gums before you are even aware it exists. This is why we encourage twice-yearly exams and cleanings at Saticoy Plaza Dentistry. During these visits, Dr. Bacquet will examine your teeth and gums thoroughly to look for signs of gum disease.

Dental Exams With Your Van Nuys Dentist

If you want to visit a dentist in Van Nuys who can ensure that your smile is as healthy as it should be, please call our office. We will be happy to arrange a cleaning and exam to ensure your teeth are strong, healthy, and free of disease.