The Role of Night Guards in Protecting Your Teeth

Do you often wake up with a sore jaw or a dull headache? You might be grinding your teeth in your sleep without even knowing it. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. Thankfully, night guards can play a significant role in protecting your teeth and improving your overall oral health.

What Are Night Guards?

Night guards, also known as dental or occlusal guards, are custom-made devices designed to fit over your teeth while you sleep. They create a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing the damage caused by grinding and clenching. Night guards are typically made of durable, comfortable materials such as acrylic or soft plastic, and they are tailored specifically to your bite.
 

Prevent Tooth Damage

Bruxism can wear down the enamel of your teeth, leading to sensitivity, chips, cracks, and even tooth loss over time. Night guards act as a cushion, absorbing the force of grinding and preventing damage to your teeth. This is especially important for people with crowns or fillings, which are more vulnerable to breakage.
 

Relieve Jaw Pain and Headaches

Constant clenching of the jaw during sleep can strain the muscles, leading to jaw pain, discomfort, and tension headaches. A night guard helps to ease the pressure on your jaw joints and muscles, reducing pain and allowing for more restful sleep.
 

Prevent TMJ Disorders

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can develop when bruxism puts stress on the jaw joints. This condition can cause pain in the face, jaw, and neck, and even make it difficult to open and close your mouth. Wearing a night guard helps to keep the jaw in a relaxed position, reducing the risk of developing TMJ issues.
 

Improve Sleep Quality

Grinding and clenching can disrupt your sleep, even if you’re not aware of it. By wearing a night guard, you may experience a more peaceful and uninterrupted night’s rest, as your teeth and jaw are protected from the discomfort caused by bruxism.
 

Custom Night Guards vs. Store-Bought Options

While there are over-the-counter night guards available, custom night guards from your dentist are the superior option. Custom guards are specifically molded to fit your teeth and bite, providing maximum comfort and effectiveness. Store-bought guards are often bulkier and less effective at distributing the pressure from grinding, which can result in discomfort or poor protection.
 

When Should You Consider a Night Guard?

If you experience any of the following, you might want to consult your dentist about a night guard:
 

• Waking up with sore teeth, jaw pain, or headaches
   

• Noticing wear on your teeth or dental work
   

• Hearing a partner mention that you grind your teeth at night
   

• Experiencing clicking or popping in your jaw
   

Protecting Your Smile with a Night Guard

Night guards are a simple yet effective solution for protecting your teeth and jaw from the harmful effects of bruxism. If you suspect that you’re grinding your teeth at night, don’t wait for the damage to worsen. 
 

Schedule a consultation with Cal Oaks Dental to discuss whether a custom night guard is right for you. Contact our office in Murrieta, California, by calling (951) 501-4900 to book an appointment today.