Bruxism is a sleep disorder that causes people to grind their teeth at night. It’s estimated that one in three people are affected by this, and the disorder is even more common in children and young adults. Luckily, a dentist can give you a mouthguard to wear at night. Here’s a closer look at the benefits you’ll gain while you sleep.

What to Expect When You Wear a Mouthguard at Night

1. Prevent Tooth Wear

Teeth grinding wears through the enamel, which is the protective outer layer on the teeth. Once enamel is lost, it can’t be restored, which means decay will be harder to prevent.

This can also damage any fillings or crowns you have in your mouth. A mouthguard sits between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other.

2. Avoid Jaw Pain & Headaches

Clenching your jaw for hours each night causes a lot of stress on the temporomandibular joint. This is why people with bruxism often wake up with a sore jaw that may fade in the morning or stay with them all day.

A dentist will custom-make a guard for you so that it fits comfortably in your mouth at night, relieving the tension on the joints and muscles. It can also prevent headaches that are often caused by jaw stress.

3. Sleep Better

The pain caused by bruxism can wake you up in the middle of the night, interrupting your sleep rhythms. Even if you don’t notice it waking you up, the discomfort can reduce your quality of sleep. With your night guard, you’ll wake up feeling more refreshed.

William U. Britton, DDS, MAGD, creates custom mouthguards for patients of all ages in Jackson and Chillicothe, OH. This family dentist provides care with the latest technology in a comfortable, compassionate environment. To keep your family’s care affordable, they accept most insurance plans and can create custom payment plans. Learn more about their services online and call (740) 772-2225 to schedule an appointment.