If you are waking up with jaw soreness, morning headaches, or teeth that feel unusually sensitive, you may be grinding your teeth at night. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can quietly wear down your smile over time.
The good news is that custom or store-bought night guards can be effective ways to protect your teeth and reduce strain on your jaw. However, how do you know which night guard option is best for you?
In this article, we will explain what night guards are, how custom options compare to store-bought versions, and what you can expect if you decide to get either.
What Is Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)?
Bruxism is the involuntary clenching, grinding, or gnashing of teeth, most often during sleep. Unlike daytime clenching, nighttime grinding can exert significantly more pressure because you are not consciously aware of it. That means your teeth and jaw may endure hours of repeated force without relief.
Many people learn that they grind their teeth when a dentist spots signs of bruxism during a routine examination or a partner mentions that this is occurring while they are sleeping. If left unaddressed, bruxism can gradually affect your oral health.
Common signs of bruxism include waking up with jaw soreness or facial tension, experiencing morning headaches, or noticing increased tooth sensitivity. Teeth may appear worn, flattened, or even chipped over time. Some individuals also report earaches or a ringing sensation that does not seem to be related to hearing issues.
The causes of bruxism are varied, but stress and anxiety are among the most common triggers. Sleep disruptions, bite misalignment, and lifestyle habits such as caffeine or alcohol consumption can also contribute to nighttime teeth grinding.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard, sometimes called a nocturnal bite splint, is a removable dental appliance worn while you sleep. It may not stop the person from grinding their teeth, but it will act as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing and distributing the pressure created by grinding.
As a result, these appliances help protect enamel from wear, reduce the risk of cracks or fractures, and ease strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Custom Night Guards vs. Store-Bought: What Is the Difference?
Choosing the right night guard often comes down to fit, durability, and the severity of your grinding. While both custom and store-bought options serve the same basic purpose, the experience and results can differ significantly.
Custom Night Guards from Your Dentist
A custom night guard is created specifically for your mouth using precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth. This level of personalization ensures that the guard fits securely and comfortably without shifting during sleep.
Because it is tailored to your bite, a custom guard distributes pressure evenly and does not interfere with how your teeth come together. Dentists can also select the appropriate thickness and material based on how intensely you grind or clench.
With proper care, custom guards often last for several years. If your bite changes or the guard shows wear, your dentist can make adjustments to maintain a proper fit.
Store-Bought (Over-the-Counter) Night Guards
Store-bought night guards are typically “boil-and-bite” devices that you mold at home. While they can be convenient and affordable, they typically do not perform as well as custom-made guards.
That is because these products are not specifically fitted to your mouth, which can make them feel bulky or uncomfortable. Some users find that they shift during sleep or do not stay in place consistently. The material is also thinner and tends to wear down more quickly than custom-fitted night guards from your dentist’s office.
Which Night Guard Option Is Right for You?
If grinding happens infrequently and symptoms are mild, a store-bought option may be a reasonable temporary solution. However, if your grinding is moderate to severe, or you wake up regularly with jaw soreness, headaches, or signs of tooth wear, a custom night guard is typically the better long-term choice.
Your dentist can help you make an informed choice after evaluating your symptoms and examining your teeth.
Getting a Custom Night Guard — What to Expect
The process of getting a custom night guard is straightforward and designed to ensure comfort from the start.
The first step is visiting your dentist for a complete assessment. They will examine your teeth for signs of grinding, such as wear patterns, enamel loss, or small fractures. You will also discuss your symptoms and any contributing factors, including stress or sleep habits.
Next, your dentist will take impressions or a digital scan of your teeth. Both methods capture the exact shape of your teeth, allowing the dental lab to create a guard that fits perfectly.
Once the night guard is ready, you will return for a fitting appointment. Your dentist will ensure that the guard sits securely, feels comfortable, and does not interfere with your bite. Minor adjustments can be made immediately to fine-tune the fit. The dentist will then adjust the appliance to ensure that the teeth are coming together appropriately and that the appliance works harmoniously with your existing occlusion (i.e. your bite). The dentist may also recommend follow up adjustments to your night guard to ensure that your symptoms are resolved.
Always bring the appliance to your regular dental checkups and report any comfort or performance issues you are having with your night guard. Over time, natural wear or subtle changes in your teeth may require adjustments to the night guard, so be sure to bring it to every dental checkup. Your dentist will look for signs of wear or make adjustments to ensure ongoing fit and performance.
How to Care for Your Night Guard
A night guard is an investment in your oral health, and proper care helps extend its lifespan. Here are three ways to ensure ongoing protection from the effects of bruxism:
- After each use, rinse it with cool water. Very hot or boiling water should be avoided as it can warp the material.
- Clean it with a soft toothbrush without toothpaste.
- Store your night guard in a ventilated case when it is not in use. Leaving it exposed or in direct sunlight can damage the material.
Other Ways to Manage Tooth Grinding
While a night guard is highly effective, it works best as part of a broader approach to managing bruxism. Here are several ways to help you reduce the risk of teeth grinding at night:
- Relieve stress with relaxation techniques such as meditation, exercise, or structured wind-down routines
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, particularly in the evening
- Stop daytime clenching by keeping your tongue relaxed and your teeth slightly apart
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and a calming bedtime routine
If you suspect you are grinding your teeth at night and would like to explore safe and effective treatment options, make an appointment with our team at Yonge Eglinton Dental. We specialize in offering customized solutions that help protect your smile – even while you sleep!
Give our office a call today – we are here to help!
Explore Custom-Fitted Night Guard Solutions with Our Dentists at Yonge and Eglinton
Contact Yonge Eglinton Dental when you are ready to optimize your oral health. We will work together to ensure your teeth and gums look great and are as strong and healthy as possible. Make an appointment for an office visit today by calling our office at 416-932-2222 or booking online. We look forward to seeing you!
Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Night Guards
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Common signs include waking with jaw soreness, morning headaches, worn or flattened teeth, and increased sensitivity. Many people only become aware after a dentist identifies wear patterns during an exam.
Can a night guard stop me from grinding?
A night guard may not stop the grinding reflex itself. However, it will protect your teeth and jaw by creating a barrier and distributing pressure evenly, reducing wear and strain.
How long does a custom night guard last?
With proper care, a custom night guard can last several years. Your dentist will monitor its condition and recommend replacement when necessary.
Is a custom night guard uncomfortable to wear?
Most patients adapt well because the guard is designed specifically for their teeth. The precise fit makes it more comfortable than bulkier, store-bought options.
Will my dental benefits cover a night guard?
Coverage varies depending on your plan. Your dental office can help you understand your options during your visit.
Can children grind their teeth too?
Yes, bruxism is relatively common in children, especially during growth phases. It often resolves on its own, but it should still be discussed with your family dentist.
What is the best night guard for grinding teeth?
The best option depends on the severity of grinding. For consistent or more intense bruxism, a custom-fitted night guard provides the best combination of comfort, durability, and protection.
