Is It Normal to Grind Healthy Teeth When Fitting Dentures?

Fitting dentures requires grinding down natural teeth?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I underwent root canal treatment and needed to get a dental prosthesis.
However, during the placement of the prosthesis, it seemed that there were occlusion issues that required adjustments to my teeth.
My dentist started to grind down the prosthesis, but unexpectedly, after placing the prosthesis, the dentist began to grind down the corresponding natural tooth above it.
I was shocked at that moment, wondering why the natural tooth, which had no issues, needed to be ground down after getting the prosthesis, resulting in damage to the natural tooth above.
Is this a normal occurrence? Does the need to adjust the occlusion affect the condition of the natural teeth? Is this a common practice when placing dental prostheses?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/22

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Anonymous,
Hello! Generally, it is not common to grind down opposing teeth unless they are very sharp and may cause wear on the lower prosthesis.
It is important to communicate more! Take care! Wishing you peace and success in everything!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2020/08/22

More Info

When it comes to fitting dentures, particularly in the case of dental bridges or crowns, it is not uncommon for dentists to make adjustments to adjacent healthy teeth to ensure proper occlusion (bite alignment). However, this practice can raise concerns, especially when it involves grinding down healthy teeth that do not exhibit any signs of decay or periodontal disease.
In your situation, it appears that your dentist made adjustments to the healthy tooth above the denture to achieve a better fit and alignment with the newly placed denture. While this may be a standard procedure in some cases, it is essential to understand the implications and the rationale behind such actions.

The primary reason for adjusting the healthy tooth is to ensure that the bite is correct. If the new denture or bridge does not align properly with the opposing teeth, it can lead to discomfort, uneven wear, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues over time. Dentists aim to create a harmonious bite where all teeth come together evenly when you close your mouth. However, this should ideally be done with minimal alteration to healthy teeth.

It's important to note that while some adjustments may be necessary, excessive grinding or altering of healthy teeth should be approached with caution. Healthy teeth are valuable, and preserving their structure is crucial for long-term dental health. If you feel that the adjustments made were excessive or unnecessary, it is advisable to seek a second opinion from another dental professional. They can evaluate the situation and provide guidance on whether the adjustments were appropriate or if further action is needed.

In terms of your concern about the health of the adjusted tooth, if the tooth has been ground down significantly, it may become more sensitive to temperature changes or pressure. This sensitivity can be a sign that the tooth's protective enamel has been compromised. If you experience ongoing discomfort or sensitivity, it is essential to return to your dentist for an evaluation. They may recommend treatments such as desensitizing toothpaste or even protective coatings to help alleviate any discomfort.

Moreover, if you are considering future dental work, it is crucial to communicate openly with your dentist about your concerns regarding the preservation of healthy teeth. Discussing your treatment plan in detail can help ensure that you are comfortable with the procedures being performed and that your dental health is prioritized.

In summary, while it is not uncommon for dentists to adjust healthy teeth during the fitting of dentures, it should be done judiciously and with the patient's best interests in mind. If you have concerns about the extent of the adjustments made to your healthy tooth, seeking a second opinion is a wise course of action. Maintaining the integrity of your natural teeth is vital for overall oral health, and any unnecessary alterations should be carefully reconsidered.

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