Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Teeth Grinding
Many people grind their teeth without realizing it, especially at night. But over time, bruxism can lead to serious dental issues that affect both appearance and function. If you’ve noticed increased sensitivity, headaches, or jaw discomfort, teeth grinding may be the cause.
Common signs of bruxism include:
- Worn-down or flattened teeth
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Cracked or chipped enamel
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Tired, stiff jaw muscles in the morning
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw (TMJ dysfunction)
- Trouble sleeping or disturbed sleep patterns
Bruxism is often triggered by stress, sleep disorders, bite misalignment, or lifestyle habits. Without treatment, it can lead to permanent damage requiring crowns, fillings, or even root canals. That’s why early intervention is essential.
How Custom Night Guards Help Stop the Damage
At Marlborough Dental Centre, we offer professionally fitted night guards to shield your teeth from the effects of grinding. Unlike store-bought options, a custom night guard is made specifically for your mouth, offering superior comfort, durability, and protection.
Benefits of custom night guards:
- Prevent enamel wear and damage
- Reduce jaw muscle fatigue and tension
- Minimize TMJ strain and inflammation
- Lower the risk of cracked or chipped teeth
- Improve sleep quality for both you and your partner
Night guards are made from medical-grade materials and molded precisely to fit over your upper or lower teeth. You’ll wear the device while sleeping, and it will act as a cushion that absorbs the force of clenching and grinding.
What to Expect During Your Night Guard Appointment
Getting a night guard is simple and non-invasive. The process typically involves two visits:
- Initial Consultation and Impressions
We’ll examine your teeth, jaw alignment, and symptoms. If bruxism is confirmed, we’ll take impressions of your mouth using digital scans or traditional molds. These impressions are sent to a dental lab for fabrication.
2. Fitting Appointment
When your night guard is ready (usually within 1–2 weeks), we’ll ensure it fits comfortably and make any adjustments needed. You’ll receive care instructions and tips for cleaning and maintenance.
You’ll adapt to wearing the guard quickly—most patients notice relief from grinding-related symptoms within days or weeks.
Who Needs a Night Guard?
Night guards are suitable for adults and teens who show signs of bruxism or clenching. You might benefit from one if:
- You have noticeable enamel wear or recent fractures
- You wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or facial tension
- You’ve been told you grind your teeth in your sleep
- You’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ dysfunction
- You’ve recently received restorative dental work you want to protect
At Marlborough Dental Centre, we assess each patient individually and help you determine the best solution. If grinding is mild, stress management and lifestyle changes may help—but for most patients, a custom guard is the best long-term strategy.
Don’t Let Bruxism Ruin Your Smile
Grinding may be silent, but its effects on your teeth and jaw are loud and lasting. If you’re showing early signs of wear or discomfort, don’t wait for serious damage to occur. A custom night guard is a simple, cost-effective way to protect your smile and improve sleep.
Contact Marlborough Dental Centre in NE Calgary today to book an exam and learn how we can help you stop teeth grinding for good.
FAQs
Q: What Is A Night Guard?
A: A night guard is a custom dental appliance worn during sleep to protect teeth from grinding and clenching. Contact Marlborough Dental Centre today to find out if a custom mouth gaurd can help with grinding or TMJ.
Q: How Do I Know if I Grind My Teeth?
A: You may notice jaw pain, worn teeth, headaches, or be told by a partner that you grind at night.
Q: Is a Store-Bought Guard As Effective As A Custom One?
A: No. Custom guards are more comfortable, last longer, and provide better protection tailored to your bite.
