If you’ve been waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or sensitive teeth, your body might be trying to tell you something. One of the most common yet overlooked causes of these symptoms is teeth grinding or clenching during sleep, a condition known as bruxism.
Fortunately, there’s a simple solution that can offer big relief: wearing a night guard. Recognizing the signs that you need to wear a night guard can help protect your teeth and improve your sleep quality.
1. Morning Jaw Pain or Soreness
Do you feel discomfort in your jaw when you wake up? This could be a sign that you’re clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth during the night.
Over time, this pressure can strain the jaw muscles and even contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. A night guard provides a protective barrier, reducing stress on the joint and muscles while you sleep.
2. Frequent Headaches
Morning headaches that center around the temples are a common symptom of nighttime grinding. The constant tension in your jaw can radiate pain upward, leading to persistent headaches.
If your doctor hasn’t found another explanation for your headaches, it may be time to ask your dentist about a custom night guard.
3. Tooth Sensitivity or Damage
Are your teeth becoming more sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks? Grinding can wear down enamel and expose the underlying dentin, increasing sensitivity.
You might also notice small cracks, chips, or flattened tooth surfaces. These are all signs you need to wear a night guard to prevent further damage.
4. Interrupted or Poor-Quality Sleep
Bruxism doesn’t just affect your teeth—it can disrupt your sleep cycle. If you’re tossing and turning, waking up frequently, or feeling unrested in the morning, teeth grinding might be playing a role. A night guard helps minimize grinding and promotes more restful sleep.
5. Loved Ones Hear You Grinding
Sometimes, the first person to notice a problem is your sleep partner. If someone tells you they hear you grinding or clicking your teeth at night, don’t ignore it. That noise could be causing tooth wear and joint issues you don’t yet feel.
Help is Available
If you live in the Gainesville, TX, area and are noticing any of these symptoms, the team at Gainesville Dental Associates can help. They offer custom night guards that are comfortable, effective, and tailored to your unique bite. Don’t wait until the damage is done; schedule a consultation and find out if a night guard is right for you.
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