Bruxism — the habitual clenching or grinding of teeth — often happens without a person realizing it, especially during sleep. Many people only learn they grind their teeth when a partner notices the sound, or when they begin waking with jaw soreness, headaches, or sensitive teeth. Although stress and anxious tension are common triggers, bruxism can also be linked to disrupted sleep patterns, airway issues, or the way teeth come together at rest.
When grinding or clenching becomes frequent, it can strain the muscles that control the jaw and place excess pressure on the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). Over time this can lead to persistent discomfort, broken enamel, and changes in how teeth meet. Because the activity usually takes place at night, its cumulative effects occur quietly and gradually, making early recognition and intervention important.
For many patients, identifying bruxism starts with noticing everyday clues: morning jaw pain, a history of unexplained tooth damage, or worsening headaches. A dental evaluation can reveal patterns of wear and assess whether a night guard or other treatment would help protect oral structures and reduce symptoms.
A night guard is a simple oral appliance worn over the teeth during sleep to reduce the forces created by grinding and clenching. By creating a stable contact surface and keeping the upper and lower jaws slightly separated, a night guard minimizes direct tooth-on-tooth contact and helps distribute bite forces more evenly. This reduces the risk of chips, fractures, and accelerated wear.
Beyond protecting teeth, night guards can relieve excessive strain on the muscles and TMJ. When the jaw is supported in a more neutral position, muscle tension often falls and many patients report fewer morning headaches and less jaw stiffness. Although a night guard does not cure the underlying cause of bruxism, it acts as an effective safeguard against the damage that results from chronic grinding.
Night guards are designed to be noninvasive and easy to incorporate into a bedtime routine. They are wearables rather than treatments that require medication or invasive procedures, making them a practical first-line approach for preserving dental health and improving comfort while more comprehensive care plans are evaluated.
Over-the-counter mouthguards are widely available, but they are generic in shape and often do not provide the precise fit or durability needed to manage long-term bruxism. Custom night guards, made from impressions or digital scans taken at the dental office, are tailored to the contours of a patient’s teeth and bite. That customized fit enhances comfort and ensures the appliance functions as intended throughout the night.
Materials also matter. Professional night guards are fabricated from dental-grade acrylics or thermoplastics selected for strength and resilience. These materials resist deformation and can be adjusted by your dentist for an optimal bite. A proper fit reduces the likelihood of the guard shifting in sleep, which preserves its protective role and improves the patient’s acceptance of wearing it regularly.
A custom night guard is also an opportunity for clinical oversight. During the fitting process, your dentist evaluates jaw alignment, checks for signs of TMJ strain, and can fine-tune the appliance to address specific wear patterns. That hands-on approach makes a custom solution more predictable and comfortable than an off-the-shelf alternative.
Not everyone who grinds their teeth needs a night guard, but certain signs and circumstances make it a sensible consideration. People who show visible tooth wear, experience frequent jaw pain, or have recurring headaches associated with sleep are strong candidates. Patients undergoing restorative work or implant treatment may also receive a night guard to protect dental investments while healing and adapting to new bite relationships.
Other risk factors include sleep-disordered breathing, high daily stress, stimulant use (like caffeine), and certain medications that can increase jaw activity. Additionally, misaligned teeth or a recent change in dental restorations can alter how the bite comes together and may trigger new grinding behavior. A dental exam that includes bite analysis and discussion of symptoms helps determine whether a night guard is the right step.
Because bruxism can evolve over time, periodic reassessment is important. What works at one stage may need adjustment as dental conditions change, so ongoing follow-up ensures the night guard continues to protect oral health effectively.
The journey to a comfortable, effective night guard begins with a clinical evaluation and an impression or digital scan of your teeth. That record allows the dental lab — or in-office fabrication system — to create an appliance that mirrors the patient’s bite. Once fabricated, the dentist checks the fit, makes any minor adjustments, and provides guidance on how to insert, remove, and care for the device.
Daily cleaning is straightforward but essential: rinse the guard after use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste or a mild soap, and store it in a ventilated case. Avoid high temperatures that can warp the material, and bring the guard to dental follow-ups so the clinician can inspect it for wear or fit changes. Most guards show some signs of wear over time and may require professional polishing, reshaping, or eventual replacement.
Patients should bring any new or worsening symptoms to their dentist’s attention. If jaw pain persists or the guard no longer feels stable, adjustments may be needed. Regular dental visits provide the ideal opportunity to monitor both the appliance and the broader oral health picture, ensuring the guard continues to serve its protective purpose.
At Davenport Dental Associates, our approach to managing bruxism focuses on protecting your teeth and minimizing discomfort with practical, evidence-based options. If you suspect you grind your teeth or wake with jaw pain, reach out to learn whether a custom night guard is right for you. Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation.
Our goal is to help every patient experience the benefits of good oral health and a beautiful smile. We value the trust you have placed in our office and strive to provide solutions that meet your dental needs and expectations of care.
Walk-Ins Welcomed - Hablamos Español
Phone
