Waking up with a sore jaw or frequent headaches might not seem like a big deal at first. But over time, it could affect your sleep, your mood, and even your teeth. For many people, these subtle symptoms are signs of nighttime teeth grinding or jaw clenching, also known as bruxism. A custom night guard from Dr. Rita Tempel in might be the simple solution your body’s been asking for.
5 Signs You Need A Custom Night Guard
Dr. Tempel may recommend a TMJ night guard for several reasons. If you’ve been waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or notice changes in your teeth, it could be time to consider one. Here are five common signs to look out for.
1. Jaw Pain That Won’t Quit
If your jaw feels tight, sore, or even clicks when you open and close your mouth, it could be a sign of stress on your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This often happens due to grinding or clenching while you sleep. Because it occurs at night, many people don’t realize they’re doing it until their dentist points it out or the pain becomes hard to ignore. A custom night guard could help relieve pressure on the joint, giving your muscles a break and allowing your jaw to heal.
2. Morning Headaches
If you often wake up with headaches that start near your temples, teeth grinding could be the cause. The muscles you use to grind or clench your teeth stay tense all night, which can lead to soreness and tension headaches in the morning. If you’re not sleeping well or waking up in pain, talk to your dentist. A night guard made specifically for your bite can reduce this tension and help you sleep more comfortably.
3. Worn or Flattened Teeth
Look at your teeth in the mirror. Do they seem shorter, flatter, or chipped? Are the edges unusually smooth or uneven? These are common signs of bruxism. Constant grinding wears away your enamel, the hard outer layer that protects your teeth. Over time, this can make your teeth more sensitive and prone to decay or fractures. A custom night guard creates a soft barrier between your upper and lower teeth, helping protect your smile from further wear.
4. Increased Tooth Sensitivity
Teeth that are suddenly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods may be a result of enamel erosion. Grinding your teeth puts immense pressure on them, slowly wearing away the protective outer layer. Over time, the nerves inside the teeth become more exposed, resulting in increased sensitivity. A night guard helps prevent this erosion by reducing direct contact and protecting your enamel.
5. Your Dentist Has Noticed Signs of Grinding
Sometimes, the signs of bruxism aren’t obvious to you, but they are to your dentist. If Dr. Tempel mentions wear patterns on your teeth, tiny cracks, or gum recession, take it seriously. These are often early signs that you’re grinding at night, even if you haven’t noticed any symptoms yet. A proactive approach with a custom-fit night guard could save you from more extensive and expensive dental treatments down the line.
Why Choose a Custom Night Guard?
While you can find night guards at most drugstores, they don’t offer the same level of comfort, protection, or effectiveness as a custom-made one from your dentist. Over-the-counter guards are made to fit a wide range of mouths, which means they often feel bulky, slip out of place, or even cause irritation to your gums.
A custom night guard is designed just for you. Your dentist takes precise impressions of your teeth to create a guard that fits your bite perfectly. This personalized fit means it stays secure and feels more natural to wear, so you’re more likely to use it consistently.
Custom night guards are also made from high-quality materials that last much longer than store-bought versions. Because they’re designed based on your specific grinding or clenching patterns, they provide the right amount of cushioning and protection exactly where you need it most.
Protect Your Teeth and Jaw
At Gettysburg Smiles, we are dedicated to preserving your oral health. If you grind your teeth at night, your smile and bite could be at risk. A custom night guard can help protect your teeth and gums. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and see if a night guard is right for you.