Night Guards

Understanding nighttime teeth grinding: What bruxism really is

Bruxism describes the unconscious clenching or grinding of the teeth and jaw muscles. While some people only exhibit this behavior briefly during the day, many experience the most damaging episodes while asleep — often without remembering them the next morning. Nighttime bruxism can be intermittent or chronic, and its pattern varies from person to person.

Common contributors include emotional stress and anxiety, but bruxism is frequently multifactorial. Sleep disorders, an uneven bite, missing teeth, or dental misalignment can all increase the likelihood of grinding. Medication side effects and lifestyle factors like alcohol and caffeine consumption may also play a role.

Left unmanaged, nighttime grinding can escalate from an occasional nuisance to a persistent problem that affects dental health, sleep quality, and overall comfort. Recognizing the condition early helps prevent progressive wear on tooth enamel and reduces the risk of other complications.

How night guards protect your teeth and jaw

A night guard is a protective oral appliance designed to be worn while you sleep. Its primary function is to provide a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing direct tooth-on-tooth contact. By doing so, the device absorbs and redistributes the forces created by grinding and clenching, which protects tooth surfaces from chipping, fracturing, or excessive wear.

Beyond safeguarding teeth, night guards help reduce strain on the jaw muscles and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Many patients report less morning jaw soreness and fewer tension-type headaches after consistently wearing a well-fitted appliance. While a night guard does not cure the underlying cause of bruxism, it plays an important role in harm reduction and symptom relief.

Different guard designs address different needs — some prioritize cushioning for heavy grinders, while others focus on repositioning the jaw to relieve joint stress. A dental professional can explain the most appropriate design based on the severity of grinding, bite characteristics, and any accompanying TMJ symptoms.

Custom-made vs store-bought: why professional fitting matters

Although over-the-counter mouthguards may seem convenient, they are generally not tailored to the nuances of an individual’s bite. Stock or boil-and-bite options can be bulky, ill-fitting, and prone to shifting during the night, which limits their protective value and can cause sore spots or poor sleep.

Custom night guards made in a dental office begin with precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth. These records enable a dental laboratory to create a device that matches your dental anatomy and occlusion, providing superior comfort and durability. A properly fitted guard stays in place without excessive bulk, which improves patient compliance and clinical outcomes.

Professional supervision also means the device can be adjusted over time. Bite changes, wear on the appliance, or evolving symptoms can be managed through simple modifications, helping to maintain optimal protection and comfort as conditions change.

What to expect during your night guard appointment

Your first visit for a night guard typically starts with a focused dental exam and conversation about symptoms. Your clinician will check for signs of enamel wear, tooth mobility, muscle tenderness, and any TMJ irregularities. They may also ask about sleep quality, morning headaches, and habits that could contribute to grinding.

If a custom guard is recommended, your dentist will take impressions or a digital scan and will discuss material options and wear expectations. You’ll learn how to insert and remove the appliance, and the team will provide guidance on nightly use and storage. Fabrication usually involves a short lab turnaround, after which you’ll return for a final fit and any necessary adjustments.

Because bruxism can be linked to other health concerns, your provider may discuss complementary strategies such as stress management techniques, sleep hygiene improvements, or referrals for further medical evaluation when indicated. The goal is a comprehensive approach that protects teeth now while addressing contributing factors for long-term benefit.

Daily care, longevity, and when to follow up

Caring for a night guard is straightforward but essential. Rinse the appliance each morning, brush it gently with a non-abrasive toothpaste or mild soap, and store it dry in a ventilated case. Avoid hot water and direct sunlight, which can warp the material, and keep the guard away from curious pets.

Even a well-made night guard will show signs of wear over time. Regular checkups allow your dentist to inspect the appliance for cracking, thinning, or fit changes and to make repairs or replacements when necessary. Prompt attention to changes can prevent renewed stress on teeth and the jaw.

If you notice increased discomfort, new jaw noises, persistent headaches, or visible tooth damage despite wearing a guard, schedule a follow-up. These signs can indicate that the device needs adjustment or that the underlying condition has evolved and requires a different therapeutic strategy.

At Inspirational Smiles we prioritize protecting your smile with practical, evidence-based solutions for bruxism. A custom night guard can offer meaningful relief from the damaging effects of nighttime grinding while you pursue longer-term strategies to address the causes. Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation with our team — we’re happy to help you find the right approach for better sleep and a healthier bite.