Do you ever wake up with a sore jaw, a headache, or teeth that feel sensitive? You may be experiencing bruxism, also known as teeth grinding or clenching.
The tricky part? Many people grind or clench their teeth while they sleep and don’t even realize they’re doing it.
What is a nighttime appliance?
A nighttime appliance is a custom dental device designed to be worn while you sleep. Depending on your individual needs, an appliance can help protect your teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching while also helping to reduce stress on your jaw.
Unlike a one-size-fits-all night guard from the store, a professionally made appliance is designed specifically for your mouth and your bite.
Signs you may be grinding or clenching
Some common signs include:
- Waking up with jaw soreness or tension
- Frequent morning headaches
- Tooth sensitivity or increased tooth wear
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Facial or jaw discomfort
- Your partner noticing grinding sounds while you sleep
Sometimes, your dentist may notice signs of grinding during your regular exam before you notice symptoms yourself.
Why protecting your smile at night matters
Your teeth work hard all day long. If you’re clenching or grinding while you sleep, that additional pressure can contribute to tooth wear, damage, and jaw discomfort over time.
A custom nighttime appliance can be an important part of protecting your smile and managing the effects of nighttime grinding or clenching.
And remember, not every appliance is right for every patient. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth, bite, and symptoms to determine whether a nighttime appliance is appropriate for you.
Wake up protecting your smile!
If you’ve been waking up with jaw tension, headaches, or unexplained tooth sensitivity, it may be worth bringing it up at your next visit with our dentists in Winchester, VA.
At Cedar Creek Dental, Dr. [doctr_name], Dr. Ahmad Salah and our team are here to look beyond the surface and help you understand what your smile may be telling you.
Your best smile doesn’t stop when you go to sleep.