Do I need a night guard for teeth grinding?

night guard for teeth grinding

Yes, if you grind or clench your teeth when you sleep, a night guard can help protect your teeth and relieve your pain in your jaw and head. Many people search for a dentist near me when they have sore jaws or sensitive teeth in the morning; this is a sign that you may be grinding your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism. 

What is Night Guard?

Night guards are made of soft or hard plastic and custom-fit to be worn in your mouth while you sleep. Night guards fit over your teeth and put a physical barrier between your top and bottom teeth so they don’t grind against one another, eliminating damage from grinding and clenching. 

What are the Types of Night Guards?

TypeDescriptionBest For
Soft Night GuardCushiony and flexible plasticMild grinding/clenching
Hard Night GuardDurable acrylic, long-lastingSevere bruxism or TMJ
Dual LaminateSoft inside, hard outsideModerate to heavy bruxism

How Night Guards are helpful for teeth grinding?

Night guards protect your teeth, help your mouth and jaw feel better and also:

  • Stops teeth from wearing down
  • Decreases jaw pain and stress
  • May prevent morning headaches
  • Protects crowns, fillings, and other dental work

Wearing a night guard every night helps prevent minor issues from becoming more serious ones.

What are the Pros of Wearing Night Guards?

Below are some benefits of night guards:

  • Save Your Teeth: They keep your teeth from cracking, chipping or wearing flat from grinding.
  • Less Pain: Using a night guard may result in decreased jaw, teeth, and facial pain.
  • Sleep Better: Grinding can be disruptive to your sleep. Night guards can help your muscles relax so you get more restful sleep.
  • Prevent Jaw Problems: They can help prevent bigger issues with your jaw joints, such as TMJ pain.
  • Save Money: Wearing a night guard now may prevent the need for more expensive dental repairs later.

How Do I Know If I Need a Night Guard?

The following signs indicate that you may require a night watch:

  • Sore jaw when you wake up
  • Flat or chipped teeth
  • Sensitive teeth in the morning
  • Clicking or popping in your jaw
  • Morning headaches
  • You hear grinding sounds at night

If you notice any of these, ask about a night guard in Coral Gables, FL. Otherwise, you can also visit us, and we would be happy to guide you in the best possible manner. For people living with chronic bruxism, wearing a guard nightly can stop minor discomfort from turning into serious dental issues.

What is the Difference between Custom and Store-Bought Night Guards?

TypeCustom Night GuardStore-Bought Guard
FitMade by your dentist for youOne-size-fits-all
ComfortVery comfortableMay feel too big or loose
Lasts For2 to 5 yearsA few months
Best ForBest for moderate-to-severe grindingLight grinding
CostMore expensiveCheaper but less durable

A custom night guard from a trusted dental office in Coral Gables, FL, works better and feels more comfortable than one bought from a store. 

Sleep Peacefully. Smile Confidently. Protect Your Teeth Tonight!

If you grind your teeth at night, using a night guard is a smart way to protect your smile and feel better. It helps prevent tooth damage, jaw pain, and other problems. Don’t wait until it gets worse; get help early. At Gables Sedation & Family Dentistry, we create custom night guards designed just for you. Our caring team helps patients of all ages protect their smiles with the latest comfort-focused care. Located in the heart of Coral Gables, we’re your trusted choice for family-friendly dental solutions. Get your custom night guard at Gables Sedation & Family Dentistry. Call us today to book your visit and sleep better tomorrow!

786-386-2585