Night Guards for Teeth Grinding and Clenching

Many people grind or clench their teeth in their sleep and have no idea. Often a partner hears it first, or we spot the wear at a checkup. Grinding, called bruxism, is common, and over years it can do real damage to teeth and dental work.

Signs you may be grinding

• waking up with a sore jaw, tight face muscles, or a dull headache at the temples
• teeth that look flatter, shorter or chipped at the edges
• new sensitivity to cold
• cracked fillings or crowns
• a partner who hears grinding at night

Stress, some medications, caffeine and alcohol can make grinding worse. Grinding can also be linked to sleep problems, including sleep apnea, which is worth mentioning to us and to your doctor if you also snore heavily or wake up tired.

What a night guard does

A night guard is a thin, custom-made plastic appliance that fits over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. It does not stop the grinding itself. It takes the wear instead of your teeth, spreads out the force of clenching, and often eases morning jaw soreness.

Store-bought guards exist, but they tend to be bulky and can shift your bite if they fit poorly. A custom guard is made from an impression or scan of your teeth, so it is slimmer, more comfortable, and more likely to be worn every night.

When it is worth it

A night guard makes sense if you show clear wear, have cracked teeth or dental work, have crowns or veneers you want to protect, or wake up with jaw pain. If the signs are mild, Dr. Ed may suggest keeping an eye on it at your checkups first. He will tell you honestly which camp you are in.

Looking after your guard

Brush it gently with cool water each morning, let it dry, and keep it in its case. Bring it to your checkups so we can check the fit and look for wear.

If you think you might be grinding, mention it at your next visit or call us at 631-588-9041.