Many patients come to us wondering why their jaw feels sore in the morning or why teeth sometimes seem more sensitive than usual. Nighttime teeth grinding and jaw clenching—collectively known as bruxism—are common contributors to those symptoms. Left unaddressed, bruxism can place undue stress on teeth, gums, and the temporomandibular joints, and it can undermine sleep quality and daily comfort. At our Culver City practice, we focus on clear explanations and practical solutions so patients can protect their smiles and restore restful sleep.
Bruxism is an involuntary habit in which the teeth are ground or the jaw is clenched. This behavior may occur during wakefulness or while sleeping; nighttime bruxism is particularly disruptive because it often goes unnoticed until symptoms appear. Common signs include morning jaw stiffness, tension headaches, tooth sensitivity, and the gradual wearing of enamel.
Triggers vary from person to person. Emotional stress and anxiety are frequently implicated, but bruxism can also stem from sleep disorders, an uneven bite, missing teeth, or dental misalignment. It’s helpful to think of bruxism as a symptom rather than a standalone condition—identifying contributing factors helps guide effective treatment.
Because symptoms can overlap with other oral or medical issues, a professional evaluation is important. During a consultation, your dental team will review your symptoms, examine tooth surfaces and jaw function, and consider whether additional testing or collaboration with a sleep specialist is warranted.
A night guard is a simple, noninvasive appliance worn over the teeth during sleep. Its primary role is to create a protective buffer between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the direct forces produced by grinding and clenching. By dispersing those forces, a night guard helps prevent chips, fractures, and excessive wear to enamel and restorations.
Beyond shielding tooth enamel, night guards reduce strain on the muscles of the jaw and can minimize pressure on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). For many patients, this translates into fewer tension headaches, less jaw pain, and improved comfort on waking. In addition, wearing a properly fitted appliance can interrupt the habitual patterns that perpetuate bruxism.
It’s important to remember that a night guard manages the mechanical effects of bruxism—it does not “cure” all underlying causes. When paired with appropriate behavioral strategies, dental adjustments, or medical referrals as needed, a night guard becomes a key component of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Night guards come in different forms, and patients often ask whether an over-the-counter product is an acceptable short-term solution. Store-bought guards can offer a quick, temporary barrier, but they are made from generic materials that do not account for individual bite patterns. That can lead to poor fit, ongoing discomfort, or even altered jaw alignment over time.
A custom night guard made in a dental office begins with an accurate impression or digital scan of the teeth. That tailored fit ensures even contact across tooth surfaces and minimizes unnecessary movement of the jaw while sleeping. Clinically fabricated appliances also use materials chosen for durability, comfort, and the specific forces present in each patient’s bite.
For patients with significant wear, large existing restorations, or TMJ concerns, a custom appliance provides superior protection and predictable performance. Your dental team can explain the differences and recommend the most appropriate type of guard based on your oral health, habits, and long-term goals.
The path to a well-fitting night guard usually begins with a focused exam and discussion about your symptoms and daily habits. During the visit, the dentist will evaluate tooth wear, look for signs of current damage, and assess jaw motion. When a custom appliance is recommended, impressions or digital scans are taken to capture the precise contours of your bite.
Fabrication takes place in a dental laboratory or onsite from those impressions or scans. Once the night guard is ready, the patient returns for a fitting appointment. The dentist checks fit and comfort, makes any necessary adjustments, and provides guidance on how to insert and remove the appliance. Early follow-up helps ensure the appliance is working as intended and remains comfortable.
Adapting to a night guard typically takes a few nights to a couple of weeks. Some patients notice immediate relief in morning symptoms, while others experience gradual improvements as muscle tension decreases and tooth contact is reduced. Regular dental checkups allow the team to monitor the appliance and the ongoing condition of teeth and gums.
Proper care extends the life of a night guard and maintains oral hygiene. Rinse the appliance after use, clean it gently with a soft brush and mild soap or a dentist-recommended cleaner, and store it in a ventilated case away from heat. Avoid abrasive toothpaste or harsh chemicals that can degrade the material. Bring the guard to dental visits so the team can inspect it for wear and fit.
The useful lifespan of a night guard varies with material, the intensity of grinding, and how well it’s cared for. Over time, appliances can show signs of wear or may no longer fit exactly as they did initially. When that happens, an updated impression or scan and a replacement appliance will restore ideal protection.
If symptoms persist or worsen despite wearing a night guard, further evaluation is necessary. Ongoing pain, new noises in the jaw, or changes in bite may signal that additional treatments—such as occlusal adjustments, physical therapy, or a sleep study—should be considered. Working closely with your dental team ensures that any evolving issues are addressed promptly.
Night guards are a practical, evidence-based tool for protecting teeth, reducing jaw strain, and improving sleep comfort for many patients who grind or clench their teeth. With careful assessment, a custom fit, and routine maintenance, they play an important role in preserving oral health and preventing costly damage. If you’d like to learn more about how a night guard might help you or to schedule an evaluation, contact us for more information.
