Teeth grinding and night guards
Clenching or grinding during sleep can wear and crack teeth and cause morning jaw pain and headaches. A custom night guard places a protective surface between the teeth and balances the muscle load.
Who it is for
- Morning pain in the jaw, temples or neck
- Visible wear or cracks on teeth
- People told they grind at night
- Protection after crowns or veneers
How it works
- Examination: wear, muscles and jaw joint are assessed.
- Impression: an impression of the upper or lower jaw.
- Fitting: the lab-made guard is adjusted in the mouth.
- Review: use and symptoms are followed and the guard adjusted if needed.
Afterwards
Wear the guard every night, rinse it in the morning and keep it in its case. Stress, caffeine and sleep patterns can affect bruxism; if symptoms continue, further assessment is advised.
Questions
Does a guard stop grinding?
It does not stop the habit itself; it protects the teeth and helps reduce muscle load.
Do ready-made guards work?
Custom guards fit better and balance the bite more accurately.
How long does it last?
Depending on wear it may need replacing over time.
The information on this page is general. The right treatment for you is decided after an examination.