How Night Mouthguards Can Help Prevent Tooth Damage and Jaw Pain

If you often wake up with a sore jaw, headaches, or tooth sensitivity, you might be grinding or clenching your teeth at night without even knowing it. This common condition, called bruxism, can lead to serious dental issues over time if left untreated. Custom night mouthguards provide a simple yet effective solution to protect your smile and relieve jaw discomfort.
 

What Is a Night Mouthguard?

A night mouthguard is a custom-made dental appliance designed to be worn while you sleep. It fits snugly over your upper or lower teeth, creating a protective barrier that prevents your teeth from grinding against each other. Unlike over-the-counter options, professionally made mouthguards are tailored to your mouth for optimal comfort and effectiveness.
 

How Do Night Mouthguards Prevent Tooth Damage?

When you grind your teeth at night, the repeated pressure can wear down your enamel, cause chips or cracks, and even lead to tooth fractures. Over time, this damage can compromise the integrity of your smile and require costly dental work.
 

A night guard acts as a cushion between your teeth, absorbing the force of grinding and protecting your enamel from wear and tear. It also helps stabilize your bite, reducing the risk of shifting teeth or bite misalignment.
 

Relief from Jaw Pain and Tension

Clenching your jaw at night can strain the muscles and joints responsible for chewing, leading to soreness, stiffness, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Wearing a night guard can ease this tension by keeping your jaw in a relaxed, natural position throughout the night. Many patients find that using a mouthguard helps reduce morning jaw pain, facial soreness, and related tension headaches.
 

Why Choose a Custom Night Guard?

Custom night guards provided by your dentist are made using detailed impressions of your teeth. This ensures a precise fit that stays in place while you sleep, providing maximum protection and comfort. Custom guards are also more durable and longer-lasting compared to store-bought versions.
 

You may benefit from a night guard if you:

• Grind or clench your teeth while sleeping
• Wake up with jaw or facial pain
• Experience frequent headaches or migraines
• Have visible tooth wear or sensitivity
• Have been diagnosed with TMJ disorder

Protect Your Smile While You Sleep

Night mouthguards are a proactive way to safeguard your oral health and alleviate discomfort caused by nighttime grinding and clenching. At our Milpitas dental office, we offer custom night guards that are comfortable, effective, and built to last.
 

Ready to experience relief with a custom night mouthguard? Schedule your consultation with Fei Hwang, D.D.S. Milpitas Family and Cosmetic Dentist to protect your smile while you sleep. Visit our office in Milpitas, California, or call (408) 729-7882 to book an appointment today.