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April 27, 2023

Wear a Night Guard to Save Your Teeth from the Damage of Teeth Grinding

Do you ever wake up with a sore jaw or headache? Do you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth during the day or while you sleep? If so, you may have a condition called bruxism. Bruxism can cause damage to your teeth and jaw, but wearing a night guard can help.

What Is Bruxism?​

Bruxism is the medical term for grinding or clenching your teeth. It’s a common condition that affects both adults and children. In many cases, bruxism happens unconsciously during sleep, but it can also occur when awake as a result of stress, anxiety, or other emotional factors.

Understanding Bruxism

Close-up of flattened and chipped front teeth showing visible enamel wear caused by bruxism

The most common symptoms of bruxism include:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching noises that may disturb your partner’s sleep
  • Headaches in the morning
  • Facial pain and discomfort
  • Worn down tooth enamel causing sensitivity to hot/cold temperatures.

Benefits Of Wearing A Night Guard​

A night guard is an oral appliance made of soft material that fits over your teeth during sleep. It acts as a shock absorber to protect your teeth from grinding against each other. Here are some benefits of wearing a night guard:

  1. Prevents Teeth Damage: Grinding can wear down tooth enamel over time, exposing the inner layers of your teeth and making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.
  2. Reduces Pain: Bruxism can cause headaches and facial pain due to muscle tension in the jaw area. A nightguard reduces this pain by preventing excessive pressure on the jaw muscles.
  3. Improves Sleep: Wearing a night guard improves sleep quality by decreasing disruptive grinding sounds at night which may disturb both you and/or those sleeping nearby.
  4. Economical: A properly fitting night guard prevents damage from occurring quickly which saves money on restorative dental procedures such as veneers or crowns later on down the road.

Consult Your Dentist​

If you suspect that you’re grinding your teeth at night, it’s critical to see your dentist who can evaluate the level of damage and create a custom-fit nightguard appliance. A well-fitting guard will reduce pain and help prevent further wear and tear on your teeth. Don’t hesitate to take this simple step to start improving your overall oral health!
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Dr. Catherine Mentesana, DDS

With 24 years of experience, Dr. Catherine Mentesana, DDS, delivers compassionate, advanced dental care to help patients achieve lasting healthy smiles.
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Dr. Catherine Mentesana, DDS
With 24 years of experience, Dr. Catherine Mentesana, DDS, delivers compassionate, advanced dental care to help patients achieve lasting healthy smiles.
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