Many people grind their teeth at night without even knowing it. This condition is called bruxism. It happens when a person clenches or grinds their teeth during sleep. Most people do not feel it happening because they are asleep. But the damage it causes is very real. Teeth grinding can wear down tooth enamel, cause jaw pain, lead to headaches, and even crack teeth over time. A dentist in Edmonton can spot signs of bruxism during a routine checkup — even before you feel any pain.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a dental appliance — a small plastic tray — that fits over the upper or lower teeth. It is worn during sleep. The main job of a night guard is to act as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth.
When a person grinds their teeth at night, the night guard absorbs that pressure, preventing the teeth from taking the full force.
How Does a Night Guard Help with Teeth Grinding?
This is the most important question. Here is a simple breakdown:
1. It Protects Tooth Enamel
Tooth enamel is the hard outer layer of a tooth. Once it wears down, it does not grow back, so any damage or harm is permanent. Teeth grinding slowly damages this protective layer over time. A night guard for teeth grinding acts as a barrier between the upper as well as lower teeth. It prevents direct tooth contact and help to protect enamel from further damage.
Instead of teeth rubbing against each other, they rub against the night guard. This guard is made from a softer dental material compared to enamel. It helps reduce pressure on the teeth and lowers the risk of wear, small cracks, or breakage over time. A dentist may suggest a custom night guard for a better fit and protection.
2. It Reduces Jaw Muscle Strain
When a person grinds their teeth, the masseter muscle — the main chewing muscle — works overtime during sleep. This can lead to soreness, jaw pain, and, sometimes, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort. A night guard helps the jaw muscles relax by positioning the jaw in a more neutral alignment.
3. It Prevents Cracked or Chipped Teeth
Bruxism puts extreme pressure on teeth. Over time, this can cause micro-fractures or full cracks. A custom night guard distributes this pressure evenly, reducing the risk of serious tooth damage.
4. It Helps Reduce Headaches
Many people with bruxism wake up with headaches. These are caused by constant overnight muscle tension. Teeth grinding in Edmonton is a common concern seen in many dental patients. By reducing that tension, a night guard can help lower the frequency of morning headaches and improve overall comfort after sleep.
5.It Improves Sleep Quality
Teeth grinding can disturb deep sleep without a person even realizing it. The jaw keeps moving, muscles stay active, and the body does not fully relax. A night guard helps reduce this grinding activity, allowing the mouth and jaw to stay more stable during sleep. This leads to better rest, fewer sleep interruptions, and improved overall sleep quality.
Do I Need a Night Guard for Bruxism?
This is a question many patients ask their dentist. The answer depends on the severity of the condition. Here are some signs that point toward needing a night guard:
- Jaw pain or stiffness in the morning
- Tooth sensitivity that was not there before
- Worn-down, flat-looking teeth
- Frequent headaches after waking up
- A partner or family member has heard you grinding at night
If any of these sound familiar, it is a good idea to visit a dentist near you for an evaluation. A dentist will examine the teeth, check for signs of enamel wear, and recommend the right treatment.
Custom Night Guard vs. Store-Bought Night Guard
There is a big difference between a custom night guard made by a dentist and the ones available at a pharmacy.
A store-bought guard is a one-size-fits-all product. It may feel bulky, loose, or uncomfortable. In some cases, it can even shift the bite.
A custom night guard in Edmonton is made from a dental impression of the patient’s actual teeth. It fits perfectly, stays in place during sleep, and provides the right level of protection. Most dentists strongly recommend going the custom route for long-term bruxism treatment.
Shield Teeth From Night Grinding
Manchester Dental helps protect teeth from damage caused by night grinding. Many people do not know they grind their teeth during sleep. This condition, called bruxism, can damage tooth enamel and the jaw. Our dentist near you may suggest a night guard to prevent tooth-to-tooth contact during grinding. A custom night guard reduces pressure on teeth and supports jaw comfort during sleep. Book an appointment today for healthy teeth and better sleep.
FAQs
Is a night guard uncomfortable to wear?
It may feel unusual during the first few nights. Most patients adjust within one to two weeks. A properly fitted custom night guard should not cause pain or significant discomfort.
Can a night guard cure bruxism?
No. A night guard does not stop the grinding reflex. It protects the teeth and jaw from the damage caused by grinding. A dentist may also look into stress management or other underlying causes.
How do I clean my night guard?
Rinse it with cold water after each use. Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap to clean it. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic material.
How do I find a dentist near me who provides night guards?
Search online for a dentist near you who offers custom dental appliances. Look for a clinic that takes dental impressions and provides lab-fabricated night guards rather than generic over-the-counter options.
