Do night guards help with teeth grinding?
If you wake up with a sore jaw, dull headaches, or worn-down teeth, you might be grinding your teeth at night without realizing it. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition often linked to stress, anxiety, and even sleep disturbances. Over time, it can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated.
At Harmony Family Dentistry in Carson City, Dr. Vedran and Dr. Justine Dupanovic create custom night guards that help protect your teeth, relieve strain, and promote better sleep. Let’s explore how night guards work, why they’re recommended, and how they can make a real difference in preventing long-term damage.
Understanding teeth grinding
Teeth grinding happens when you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth, often during sleep. Some people may also grind during the day, especially when concentrating, driving, or feeling stressed. The exact cause can vary, but common triggers include:
- Stress or anxiety
- Sleep apnea or snoring
- Misaligned teeth or bite issues
- Certain medications
- Caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco use
In recent years, dentists have noticed an increase in patients reporting teeth grinding and jaw pain, especially among adults dealing with high stress levels. Even mild grinding can wear down enamel, cause jaw tension, and increase sensitivity.
How night guards protect your teeth
A night guard is a custom-made dental appliance that fits over your upper or lower teeth to create a barrier between them. This prevents the surfaces from grinding against each other while you sleep.
Custom night guards are designed by your dentist to fit comfortably and protect your bite alignment. Here’s how they help:
- Reduce pressure and wear: By absorbing the force of grinding, night guards prevent enamel damage and tooth fractures.
- Relax jaw muscles: The guard eases tension and helps reduce morning soreness or headaches.
- Prevent TMJ strain: Bruxism often leads to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, and a night guard helps keep the joint relaxed.
- Improve sleep quality: With less discomfort and tension, you can sleep more peacefully through the night.
Over-the-counter mouthguards are available, but they are typically less durable and may not fit properly. A custom dental night guard from a professional dentist provides a more precise and comfortable fit, which means better protection and longer-lasting results.
Signs you may need a night guard
You might not realize you grind your teeth until your dentist points it out. However, some common signs include:
- Waking up with jaw pain or tightness
- Tooth sensitivity or worn edges
- Frequent dull headaches, especially in the morning
- Clicking or popping in the jaw
- Flat or chipped teeth
- Partners mentioning grinding noises at night
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s worth discussing them with your dentist. At Harmony Family Dentistry, a simple examination can confirm whether grinding is causing the issue. If grinding has affected your gums, check out our blog on the main cause of periodontal disease.
How custom night guards are made
Creating a custom night guard is a quick and comfortable process:
- Consultation and examination
The dentist evaluates your bite, teeth wear patterns, and any jaw discomfort to determine if a night guard is appropriate. - Digital impressions
A precise 3D scan of your teeth is taken to create a custom-fit appliance. This ensures the guard is snug but comfortable. - Fabrication
The guard is crafted in a dental lab from durable materials designed to resist grinding pressure while remaining easy to wear. - Fitting and adjustments
Once ready, you’ll return for a fitting appointment. The dentist checks your bite and comfort, making any small adjustments if necessary. - Care instructions
You’ll receive guidance on how to clean and store the night guard to maintain its longevity.
Most patients adapt to wearing their night guard within a few nights. The comfort of a properly fitted appliance makes it easy to stick with the habit long-term.
Night guards and stress management
Since stress is one of the biggest contributors to teeth grinding, combining a night guard with stress-reduction techniques offers the best results. Patients are often encouraged to try relaxation practices like:
- Breathing exercises or meditation before bed
- Avoiding caffeine and alcohol in the evening
- Stretching or gentle jaw massages
- Keeping a consistent sleep schedule
At Harmony Family Dentistry, the team often discusses these strategies during appointments to help patients reduce grinding frequency over time.
What happens if bruxism is not treated
Ignoring teeth grinding can lead to more than just jaw pain. Without protection, constant pressure on the teeth can cause:
- Worn-down enamel, leading to sensitivity
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Gum recession or inflammation
- TMJ pain and restricted movement
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Disturbed sleep patterns
These issues can eventually lead to costly restorative treatments such as crowns, fillings, or even implants. Wearing a night guard is a simple and affordable way to prevent these complications.
Night guard maintenance
Proper care keeps your night guard effective and hygienic. Here are a few tips:
- Rinse the guard with cool water after each use
- Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap
- Store it in a ventilated case
- Avoid exposing it to hot water or direct sunlight
- Bring it to your dental checkups so your dentist can examine it for wear
With proper care, a quality custom night guard can last several years before needing replacement.
Are night guards covered by insurance
Most PPO dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for custom night guards when they are medically necessary. Harmony Family Dentistry helps patients check their benefits and provides clear, upfront cost estimates. For patients without insurance, flexible payment options are also available.
Visit Harmony Family Dentistry in Carson City
If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth or notice symptoms of jaw pain, visit Harmony Family Dentistry for a professional evaluation. The husband-and-wife team provides personalized night guard solutions designed for comfort, durability, and long-term protection.
The office is conveniently located near Roop & Stewart Bus Stop (short walk), Frontier Plaza with Raley’s Supermarket, CVS Pharmacy, and Subway (2-min drive), and Winnie Lane Center with San Marcos Grill, McDonald’s, and Denny’s (2-min drive).
Book a free consultation
Harmony Family Dentistry offers free consultations for patients concerned about teeth grinding or sleep-related dental issues. During your visit, your dentist will examine your teeth, discuss your symptoms, and recommend the best custom appliance to protect your smile.
Final thoughts
Teeth grinding may seem like a minor problem, but over time it can seriously affect your teeth, jaw, and quality of sleep. A custom night guard is one of the most effective and comfortable ways to prevent damage and improve your overall oral health. With expert care, personalized fittings, and stress-free visits, Harmony Family Dentistry helps Carson City residents rest easy.
