Bite Checks

Bite checks are a regular part of any dental health check-up. At the Waltham office of Dr. Martin Urban, where many of our patients have implants or dentures, we’re particularly concerned with ensuring that their prosthetics still fit correctly. When a tooth or jaws are out of place, pain is likely to only get worse without intervention.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is a condition affecting the joints that connect the lower jaw to the head. It may cause pain, tingling, or numbness along the jaw, neck, or shoulder muscles. TMD often exists in a vicious circle with bruxism, also known as teeth grinding. As people clench or grind their teeth in their sleep, their enamel is eroded and their teeth are pushed out of place. The pain from this can trigger more clenching, although people have also been known to grind their teeth in an unconscious effort to keep their airways open or as a way of coping with psychological stress.

Bruxism can crack teeth and deform dentures. During a dental examination, our hygienists will be able to recognize it by wear patterns in a patient’s teeth. We’ll also need patients to demonstrate how they close their teeth together and allow us to take x-rays to search for further evidence of misalignment. If a tooth or jaw is out of place, we can talk about corrective options. Patients may also need oral appliances to protect their teeth as they sleep.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.