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Understanding Bruxism and How a Night Guard Can Help

Do you ever wake up with sore jaw muscles, headaches, or notice your teeth feel sensitive? If so, you may be experiencing bruxism, a condition where people grind or clench their teeth—often without even realizing it.

What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the medical term for tooth grinding or jaw clenching. It can happen during the day, but many people grind their teeth while they sleep. Because it’s unconscious, patients often don’t know they’re doing it until a dentist points it out or a partner hears the grinding sounds at night.

Common Signs and Symptoms

  • Worn down, chipped, or flat-looking teeth

  • Jaw pain or tightness, especially in the morning

  • Headaches or earaches

  • Tooth sensitivity

  • Interrupted sleep

  • Neck or facial soreness

Over time, untreated bruxism can cause serious dental problems, including cracked teeth, gum recession, and even damage to dental work like crowns or fillings.

What Causes Bruxism?

There isn’t one single cause, but some common factors include:

  • Stress and anxiety – a leading trigger for clenching and grinding

  • Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea

  • Bite alignment issues where teeth don’t fit together properly

  • Lifestyle factors like caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco use

How a Night Guard Can Help

One of the most effective treatments for bruxism is a custom night guard made by your dentist.

A night guard is a thin, durable appliance that fits comfortably over your teeth while you sleep. It doesn’t stop the grinding itself, but it creates a protective barrier that:

  • Prevents teeth from wearing down, cracking, or chipping

  • Reduces pressure on the jaw muscles and joints

  • Minimizes morning headaches and soreness

  • Helps protect expensive dental work (crowns, veneers, fillings)

  • Can improve sleep quality by reducing nighttime discomfort

Think of it like a cushion for your teeth and jaws—it absorbs the forces of grinding so your smile stays protected.

Over-the-Counter vs. Custom Night Guards

While you can find store-bought night guards, they are often bulky, uncomfortable, and may not provide the same level of protection. A custom night guard made in a dental office is:

  • Precisely fitted to your bite for comfort

  • Made from high-quality, durable materials

  • Less likely to fall out or irritate your mouth

  • More effective at protecting your teeth long-term

Final Thoughts

Bruxism is common, but it doesn’t have to take a toll on your teeth, jaw, or sleep. If you suspect you grind your teeth, schedule a dental exam. A custom night guard is a simple, effective solution that can make a big difference in protecting your smile and keeping you pain-free. At our office we utilize the latest technology (3D printing with SprintRay ) to make you the best fitting custom nightguard in Culver City CA.