April 14, 2025
You might be grinding your teeth while you sleep if you wake up with a sore jaw, a dull headache, or a chipped tooth (and you’re sure you weren’t dreaming about chewing rocks). If this sounds like you, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional.
A night guard, especially one custom-made by an orthodontist in Montgomery, AL, could be the simple solution to a not-so-simple problem. Let’s break down what night guards are, how they work, and why so many people benefit from wearing one, even if they don’t know it yet.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard, also known as an occlusal guard or bite splint, is a protective dental appliance worn over your teeth while sleeping. Think of it like a helmet for your teeth. It’s usually made of durable plastic and designed to create a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other.
There are two main types of night guards: over-the-counter options and custom-made ones from a dentist or orthodontist. Store-bought night guards can work in a pinch, but they do not match the fit, comfort, and durability of a guard made by a professional.
Why People Wear Night Guards
People mainly wear night guards to protect against bruxism, which is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, usually during sleep. This common condition can lead to many dental issues, and most people don’t even realize they’re doing it until damage has already been done.
Here’s why night guards matter:
- Preventing Tooth Damage: Grinding and clenching can wear down the enamel, crack fillings, or even break teeth. A night guard acts as a buffer to absorb the pressure.
- Relieving Jaw Pain and Tension: Constant clenching can stress your jaw muscles and joints. A guard helps to minimize that tension and can ease symptoms of TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder).
- Reducing Headaches: That tension doesn’t stop at your jaw. Many bruxism sufferers wake up with dull headaches that disappear once a night guard is in play.
Common Signs You Might Need a Night Guard
So, how do you know if a night guard might help you? Here are some of the most common red flags:
1. You Wake Up with Jaw Pain or Headaches
Morning discomfort could be a clue that your jaw muscles worked overtime while you slept. A night guard can provide relief by allowing your jaw to rest.
2. Your Teeth Are Showing Signs of Wear
If your dentist points out that your enamel looks worn, your bite has shifted, or you have small chips or cracks, bruxism could be the culprit.
3. You Hear or Feel Clicking in Your Jaw
That telltale "click" when you yawn or chew might indicate stress in your TMJ, a condition that often goes hand-in-hand with clenching or grinding.
4. Your Partner Mentions the Noise
Believe it or not, some people grind loudly enough to wake their bed partner. Take it seriously if someone tells you your teeth are making sounds at night.
How Night Guards Work
The concept is simple, but the results are powerful. When you wear a night guard, it keeps your upper and lower teeth from making direct contact. This separation helps:
- Distribute biting forces evenly
- Protect against premature wear
- Ease muscle fatigue in the jaw
- Reduce stress on joints and ligaments in the face
Over time, using a night guard consistently can also retrain your muscles to relax more at night.
Choosing the Right Night Guard for You
There are three basic types:
- Over-the-Counter (Boil-and-Bite): Inexpensive, but may not fit well or last long.
- Stock Guards: Pre-formed and typically less comfortable or effective.
- Custom Night Guards: Made by a dental professional using impressions of your teeth, offering the best fit, comfort, and protection.
While the initial cost of a custom night guard might be higher, it's a worthy investment in your long-term dental health, especially if you already see damage or discomfort.
When to See an Orthodontist in Montgomery, AL
If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. An orthodontist can evaluate your bite, discuss your symptoms, and create a custom night guard tailored to your mouth. This ensures optimal comfort, protection, and durability.
At Woodmere Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we provide custom night guards to protect your teeth while you sleep and help keep your jaw, head, and smile healthy. If you notice any signs of teeth grinding or jaw pain, it's time to take action. Schedule a consultation today, and let us help you sleep better.