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 might be the simple solution your body’s been asking for.
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 placed 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.
Morning Headaches
Consistent headaches in the morning, especially ones that start around your temples, can often be traced back to bruxism. Grinding puts a surprising amount of stress on the muscles in your head and face. If you’re not sleeping well and waking up in pain, it might be time to talk to your dentist about a night guard designed specifically for your bite.
Worn or Flattened Teeth
Take a look at your teeth in the mirror. Do they look flat or chipped in places? Are the edges unusually smooth or do you notice increased tooth sensitivity? These can be red flags. Constant grinding wears down enamel, which not only affects how your smile looks but also leaves your teeth more vulnerable to decay and fractures. A custom night guard provides a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, minimizing the damage over time.
Interrupted Sleep or Snoring
Although night guards are primarily used to protect your teeth, they could also sometimes help reduce snoring or mild sleep apnea symptoms, particularly if clenching is part of the issue. If you’re constantly waking up throughout the night, or your partner complains about your snoring, a dental consultation could determine if a custom night guard is right for you. It could help open your airway slightly and promote better breathing.
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.
Your Dentist Has Noticed Signs of Grinding
Sometimes, the signs of bruxism aren’t obvious to you, but they are to your dentist. If your dentist 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?
Over-the-counter night guards are available, but they don’t offer the same level of protection or comfort as a custom-made one. Custom night guards are molded specifically to your teeth, providing a snug fit that stays in place all night. They’re more durable and less likely to cause irritation, and they target your specific grinding or clenching patterns. It’s an investment not just in your dental health, but in your overall well-being.
Custom Night Guards in Gettysburg, PA
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.