If you often wake up with a sore jaw, headaches, or sensitive teeth, you might be dealing with something called bruxism—more commonly known as teeth grinding or clenching. While it might not seem like a big deal at first, over time, this habit can lead to serious dental issues. Thankfully, night guards can offer simple, effective relief and protection for your smile.
At Dieterlen Dental, we’ve helped many patients find long-term comfort and peace of mind through custom night guards. If you’ve been struggling with unexplained jaw pain or worn-down teeth, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Bruxism and Why Does It Happen?
Bruxism is the act of grinding or clenching your teeth, often while you sleep. Many people don’t even realize they’re doing it until the symptoms start showing up. Stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, misaligned teeth, or even lifestyle habits like caffeine and alcohol can all contribute to this condition.
Because it happens at night, it’s hard to control on your own—but the damage can add up quickly. Grinding puts immense pressure on your teeth and jaw, wearing down enamel, increasing tooth sensitivity, and straining the muscles that support your bite.
Signs You Might Be Grinding or Clenching
So, how do you know if bruxism is affecting you? Common symptoms include:
- Morning headaches
- Sore or tight jaw muscles
- Pain while chewing
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Flattened or worn tooth surfaces
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Popping or clicking on the jaw
If any of these sound familiar, it may be time to consider a custom solution like night guards to protect your teeth and reduce discomfort.
How Night Guards Help Protect Your Smile
Night guards are custom-made dental devices that fit comfortably over your teeth while you sleep. They act as a cushion, absorbing the pressure of grinding and preventing direct tooth-to-tooth contact. This protects your enamel from wearing down and eases muscle tension in the jaw, helping you wake up feeling rested instead of sore.
At Dieterlen Dental, we create night guards tailored to your bite, offering a better fit and more comfort than over-the-counter options. Because they’re made just for you, they stay in place, last longer, and work more effectively to stop damage before it starts.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Waiting too long to address teeth grinding or clenching can lead to long-term issues, such as fractured teeth, receding gums, TMJ disorders, and chronic jaw pain. But when you take action early, you can prevent most of these complications and save yourself time, money, and pain down the road.
Night guards are one of the easiest, most affordable ways to protect your oral health while you sleep—and they can make a big difference in your quality of life.
Protect Your Smile with Dieterlen Dental
Whether you’re already noticing signs of wear or just want to stop jaw pain before it gets worse, night guards can be a game-changer for your dental health. At Dieterlen Dental, we’re here to help you find relief and sleep easier—starting with a custom-fit solution designed just for you.
Schedule your consultation today with Dieterlen Dental—your trusted Tulsa dentist. Let’s help you protect your smile while you sleep.