For many people, nighttime is a time for restoration and healing. But for others, it’s when unconscious habits like teeth grinding or jaw clenching can quietly create long-term dental issues. If you’ve been waking up with jaw discomfort, headaches, or damaged teeth, your body might be signaling that you need a nightguard. This simple dental device could make a world of difference for your oral health and overall comfort.
Morning Jaw Pain or Tightness
One of the most common signs that you may need a nightguard is waking up with pain or stiffness in your jaw. This discomfort typically stems from involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth while you sleep, a condition known as bruxism. Over time, the repeated strain on your jaw muscles and joints can lead to more serious complications such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. A nightguard acts as a cushion between your teeth, reducing the pressure and preventing your jaw from locking into tense positions overnight.
Frequent Headaches or Earaches
Recurring headaches, particularly in the morning, can be another indicator that you’re grinding your teeth at night. The tension from your jaw muscles can radiate upward and contribute to tension headaches or even earaches. Because the temporomandibular joint is located near the ear canal, any inflammation or pressure in the jaw can easily lead to ear pain. While headaches and earaches can result from many different issues, if they consistently occur after a night’s sleep, it’s worth exploring whether bruxism is the cause.
Worn or Damaged Teeth
Your dentist might be the first to point out signs of wear and tear on your teeth that suggest you’re grinding them. Flattened, chipped, or damaged teeth are red flags that your enamel is under excessive stress. In severe cases, grinding can even lead to fractures that require crowns or root canals to repair. Using a nightguard can help protect your teeth from this damage by absorbing the force of grinding and distributing pressure more evenly.
Tooth Sensitivity or Pain
Unexplained tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods and drinks, can sometimes be traced back to nighttime grinding. As the enamel wears away, the sensitive dentin layer beneath becomes exposed, leading to discomfort. You might also feel a dull ache in your teeth when you wake up. A nightguard won’t reverse existing damage, but it could stop further enamel loss and give your teeth a better chance to remain healthy.
Interrupted Sleep or Fatigue
Although not everyone realizes it, clenching and grinding during sleep can lead to restless nights. The strain placed on your jaw and facial muscles might cause you to wake up frequently, even if only briefly. As a result, you may feel unusually tired or groggy during the day despite getting what should be a full night’s sleep. Wearing a nightguard could help reduce this tension and may improve your sleep quality, allowing for more restful and restorative nights.
Clicking or Popping in the Jaw
If you notice clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth, your jaw joints might be under too much stress. This is often linked to TMJ disorders, which can be exacerbated by bruxism. A nightguard can help reduce the repetitive stress placed on your temporomandibular joint, potentially alleviating these sounds and the discomfort that often accompanies them.
Custom Nightguards in Towson, MD
At Dental Excellence, we are dedicated to preserving your oral health. If you notice any of the above symptoms, a nightguard could prevent damage and other complications. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and see if a custom mouthguard is right for you.