This dental procedure code is used when your dentist prescribes a mouth guard to help counteract the effects of bruxism: the excessive grinding and clenching of teeth. Such occlusal (or, biting surface) mouthguards are typically made in a dental laboratory, although modern technology can even sometimes allow doctors to create them in-house.The reasons for a bruxism habit are manifold, and can be seen in individuals of a competitive nature, those who are anxiety prone and even in children. While teeth grinding may appear to be a harmless habit, it results in the physical wearing down of the tooth’s surface as well as the weakening of its entire structure. Bruxism can create cracks and chips in teeth, and, without intervention, over time can contribute to a shortening of the lower face height, and a change in facial appearance. This change in “face height” is due to bone loss in the lower jaw and can be seen in individuals who have lost all their teeth and do not wear dentures. An occlusal (biting surface) mouth guard can protect from these effects.This dental procedure code is used when your dentist prescribes a mouth guard to help counteract the effects of bruxism: the excessive grinding and clenching of teeth. Such occlusal (or, biting surface) mouthguards are typically made in a dental laboratory, although modern technology can even sometimes allow doctors to create them in-house.The reasons for a bruxism habit are manifold, and can be seen in individuals of a competitive nature, those who are anxiety prone and even in children. While teeth grinding may appear to be a harmless habit, it results in the physical wearing down of the tooth’s surface as well as the weakening of its entire structure. Bruxism can create cracks and chips in teeth, and, without intervention, over time can contribute to a shortening of the lower face height, and a change in facial appearance. This change in “face height” is due to bone loss in the lower jaw and can be seen in individuals who have lost all their teeth and do not wear dentures. An occlusal (biting surface) mouth guard can protect from these effects.
