Are you waking up with headaches or jaw pain? Do your teeth feel sensitive or worn down? You may be clenching or grinding your teeth during sleep, a condition known as bruxism. This is more common than many people realize and often goes unnoticed until symptoms start to appear. The good news is that there are simple, effective ways to protect your teeth. Custom fitted mouth guards help reduce the effects of grinding while you sleep, and custom sport mouth guards provide added protection during athletic activities. Unlike over-the-counter options, custom mouth guards are designed to fit your unique bite, offering better comfort, protection, and long-term dental health.
Custom mouth guards, also known as night guards, do more than just protect your teeth. They’re designed to create a comfortable barrier that helps reduce grinding and clenching while you sleep, which can ease jaw tension, headaches, and tooth wear. Because they’re custom-fitted to your bite, they’re more comfortable and effective than over-the-counter options.
For some patients, custom night guards can also play a supportive role in managing mild sleep apnea or airway issues. Certain oral appliances help keep the jaw in a more forward position during sleep, which may improve airflow and reduce airway obstruction. While they’re not a replacement for CPAP therapy in all cases, they can be a helpful alternative or complement for patients who struggle with traditional devices. At Toluca Advanced Dentistry, we evaluate your symptoms and sleep concerns to determine whether a custom mouth guard or night guard may be right for you.
Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is more common than many people realize and often happens without you noticing. While it can occur during the day, it most commonly happens at night while you’re sleeping. Because it’s usually unconscious, many people don’t realize they grind their teeth until symptoms start to appear.
Common signs of teeth grinding include:
• Morning headaches or jaw pain
• Worn down, flattened, or chipped teeth
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Tight, sore, or tired jaw muscles
• Disrupted or poor-quality sleep
If left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to long-term damage to your teeth and jaw. The good news is that early treatment can help protect your smile and reduce discomfort before it turns into a bigger issue.
Types of Night Guards We offer:
Perfect if you’re new to mouth guards or have mild grinding habits. These mouth guards are:
Ideal for people who grind their teeth more intensely. These mouth guards provide: