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Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep

If you wake up with a sore jaw, notice worn teeth, or regularly grind or clench your teeth at night, a night guard may help protect your teeth from excessive pressure while you sleep.

At Duluth Dental Care, we can evaluate signs of nighttime grinding or clenching and determine whether a night guard is appropriate for you. The goal is to protect your teeth while also considering your bite and overall oral health.

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard is a dental appliance worn over your teeth while you sleep. It creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, helping reduce direct contact caused by grinding or clenching.

Night guards can be especially useful for patients who experience bruxism, the repeated grinding or clenching of teeth.

Signs You May Need a Night Guard

You may not always know that you're grinding or clenching. Your dentist can look for patterns of tooth wear and other signs during an examination.

You may benefit from an evaluation if you notice:

Morning jaw soreness or fatigue
Frequent headaches after waking
Flattened, chipped, or worn teeth
Tooth sensitivity without an obvious cause
Soreness around the jaw or facial muscles
A partner notices that you grind your teeth at night

Why a Custom Night Guard Can Matter

A night guard isn't simply something you put over your teeth and forget about. Fit matters. A properly designed appliance can be made to suit your teeth and bite, making it more comfortable to wear and easier to incorporate into your nightly routine. Your dentist can also check the appliance over time and make adjustments if needed. A night guard doesn't necessarily stop the underlying cause of grinding, but it can help protect your teeth from the effects of repeated contact.

Night Guards Near You in Duluth, GA

If you regularly wake up with jaw discomfort or have noticed unusual wear on your teeth, don't assume it's simply part of getting older. An evaluation can help determine whether nighttime clenching or grinding is contributing to the problem.

Duluth Dental Care can examine your teeth and bite and discuss whether a night guard makes sense for your needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a night guard do?

A night guard separates the upper and lower teeth while you sleep, helping reduce direct tooth-to-tooth contact associated with grinding and clenching.

How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?

You may notice worn or chipped teeth, jaw soreness, headaches, or tooth sensitivity. Some people only discover they grind their teeth because a partner hears the grinding or their dentist notices signs of wear.

Can a night guard stop teeth grinding?

A night guard primarily protects the teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching. It does not necessarily eliminate the behavior itself.

Is a custom night guard better than an over-the-counter guard?

A custom appliance is designed specifically for your teeth and bite. Your dentist can determine which type of night guard is appropriate for your situation.

How long does a night guard last?

The lifespan varies depending on how heavily you grind or clench and how well the appliance is maintained. Regular dental visits provide an opportunity to check its condition.

Can I wear a night guard if I have braces?

It depends on your orthodontic treatment and appliance. Talk with your dentist or orthodontic provider before using a night guard with braces or other dental appliances.

How should I clean my night guard?

Follow your dentist's care instructions. In general, the appliance should be cleaned regularly and allowed to dry properly before being stored in its case.