Could an Adult Mouthguard Transform Your Sleep. The Surprising Benefits You Never Knew

Could an Adult Mouthguard Transform Your Sleep. The Surprising Benefits You Never Knew

How Mouthguards Alleviate Teeth Grinding and Jaw Pain

As I child I remember hearing my dad grind his teeth loudly while he slept. It sounded like he was chewing on gravel! Little did I know back then how much damage teeth grinding, known as bruxism, could cause. Now as an adult, I too have the annoying habit of clenching my jaw and grinding my teeth at night. For years I’d wake up with a dull headache and sore jaw muscles. I never made the connection between my symptoms and nighttime teeth grinding until I visited my dentist for a routine cleaning.

“It looks like you’ve been chewing on boulders in your sleep!” my dentist joked. I was shocked when she pointed out the small fractures and chips on the edges of my front teeth caused by grinding. She explained how the excessive pressure and friction wears down tooth enamel, making teeth more susceptible to cavities and sensitive to hot and cold. The forceful grinding can even crack teeth and fillings over time. My dentist suggested getting a custom mouthguard from my dentist to protect my pearly whites and reduce grinding.

After getting my mouthguard, I couldn’t believe how much better I felt in the mornings. The thin but durable plastic shield kept my teeth slightly apart at night, absorbing the force from grinding and clenching. For the first time in years I didn’t wake up with throbbing jaw muscles or temples. The mouthguard also alleviated pressure on my temporomandibular joint (TMJ) helping my tight jaw to finally relax. It was like a miracle cure!

My partner says my annoying snoring has disappeared since I started using my “stop grinding” night guard. I sleep more soundly without the cacophonous grinding noises keeping me awake. I never realized how the chronic stress and anxiety from my high-pressure job likely contributed to my nighttime teeth grinding. My mouthguard helps reduce daily stress that had been manifesting while I slept.

For grinders like me, a custom mouthguard crafted by a dentist can alleviate the damaging effects of bruxism. The tight fit allows your teeth to glide smoothly over the guard’s surface rather than banging and grinding your enamel away over time. Trust me, protecting your pearly whites now with a comfortable mouthguard will save you from extensive dental work down the road! No one wants to shell out thousands of dollars for veneers, crowns, or implants from excessive teeth grinding damage.

Mouthguards Protect Your Pearly Whites from Damage

As a lifelong athlete, it blows my mind that I never thought to wear a mouthguard playing recreational sports until recently. As a kid, I vividly remember getting smacked in the mouth with a baseball resulting in two lost front teeth. Ouch! My parents had to scramble to make me a same-day emergency dental appointment to get fitted for partial dentures. If only I had worn a protective mouthguard, I could’ve avoided injury and preserved my natural smile.

Nowadays, I always wear a sturdy custom mouthguard for pick-up basketball games and when shooting hoops in my driveway. Protecting my teeth from trauma gives me confidence to play without restraint. Last week when an opponent’s flailing elbow hit me in the jaw, my mouthguard absorbed the impact. Without it, I surely would’ve shattered my front veneers that set me back two grand! For contact sports like martial arts, boxing, or football, a high-quality mouthguard is an absolute necessity.

Beyond shielding teeth from fractures and collisions, mouthguards protect your gums and soft tissues too. Grinding and clenching leads to receding gums over time from excessive pressure on the jawbone. And nothing ruins a basketball game faster than a fat lip or bloody gums from getting elbowed in the mouth. A properly fitted mouthguard distributes impact evenly to prevent uncomfortable gum lacerations.

Don’t wait until it’s too late like me to safeguard your precious smile. Ask your dental provider about getting a custom athletic mouthguard to suit your sport. Your dentist will take precise impressions of your teeth to craft a mouthguard providing the ultimate protection while you play hard.

Reduce Headaches and Migraines Caused by Clenching

As a busy accountant, there are days when I clench my jaw subconsciously from stress as I race to meet tax filing deadlines. By end of a long workweek, I often develop tension headaches that over-the-counter painkillers barely touch. Little did I know that habitual jaw clenching and teeth grinding, especially while concentrating on complex tasks, was the culprit behind my pounding headaches.

When my dentist fit me for a mouthguard to curb my bruxism, she explained how sustained clenching strains the temporomandibular joint triggering headaches. By keeping teeth slightly apart, my mouthguard alleviates pressure on the TMJ providing almost immediate headache relief. I cannot believe the difference wearing it during the workday makes!

My sister Lauren suffered from recurring migraines for years that no prescription medication could prevent. After a neurologist finally referred her to a TMJ specialist, custom-made orthotics eliminated her debilitating migraines caused by severe jaw and neck muscle spasms. Now Lauren never misses a night wearing her vital mouthguard.

If you notice frequent headaches or migraines along with a sore, stiff jaw, wearing a protective mouthguard could provide the relief you’ve been searching for. Work with your dentist to find the best custom or boil-and-bite guard to alleviate your oral appliance caused headaches.

Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

While mouthguards shield against tooth fractures and damage from impacts, they also help prevent decay and gum disease in subtle ways. My dentist explained how nighttime teeth grinding wears down enamel allowing bacteria to more easily infiltrate tooth surfaces leading to cavities. The micro-fractures make teeth more sensitive and prone to decay. By preventing bruxism, mouthguards therefore help reduce tooth decay.

Mouthguards also keep your mouth from drying out as you sleep which can worsen gum disease. Without enough saliva flow, gingivitis and other gum infections flourish. And by stopping you from painfully grinding your gums over your teeth at night, mouthguards allow inflamed gums to heal.

At my last dental exam, my hygienist said my gum health has significantly improved and teeth cleaned up much faster since I began wearing my mouthguard each night. She credits the device for facilitating better saliva production for washing away plaque bacteria on teeth and gums. I never realized a simple night guard could make such a big impact for improved oral health!

Improve Your Athletic Performance

As an amateur triathlete, I’m always researching ways to shave seconds off my race times. One simple trick I stumbled upon that provides a surprising performance boost is wearing a mouthguard when cycling and running. When my teeth gently clench down on the soft but durable guard material, I breathe more easily through my nose. The strenuous mouth breathing that occurred sans mouthguard caused me to fatigue prematurely.

Performance mouthguards on the market feature special breathing channels that optimize oxygen intake through the nose and mouth. The open channels reduce the gag reflex experienced by some athletes when tasting plastic guards during intense activity. Many guards also boast shock-absorbing designs and materials to dampen impacts that cause micro-concussions.

Beyond better breathing and injury prevention, research shows mouthguards enhance athletic performance by sharpening focus and concentration. By positioning teeth ever so slightly apart, guards eliminate distracting teeth contacts. The result is improved attention and quicker reaction time. I’ve noticed significantly faster sprint finishes in races since I began using a performance mouthguard during training and events.

Give yourself a competitive edge and upgrade your training with a custom performance mouthguard. Consult your dentist about getting one specially crafted for your sport whether it’s basketball, MMA, football, hockey, or others requiring maximum exertion.

Stop Snoring and Sleep Apnea for Better Sleep

My wife used to jokingly nudge me in the middle of the night to get me to stop snoring. I never realized my disruptive nighttime snoring could be a symptom of a serious condition called sleep apnea. Turns out that my snoring vibrated from turbulent airflow caused by relaxed throat tissues blocking my airway as I slept.

After undergoing a sleep study, my doctor diagnosed me with moderate obstructive sleep apnea. I learned that the repeated awakening from apnea episodes left me feeling exhausted no matter how long I slept. Once fitted with a CPAP machine, I felt like a new man after finally getting restful, uninterrupted sleep.

To help keep my airway open at night, my dentist also made me a custom oral appliance similar to a mouthguard. Wearing the oral device along with my CPAP has virtually eliminated my snoring. And I feel remarkably more energetic during the day without restless apnea awakenings throughout the night.

If you or a loved one deal with chronic snoring or symptoms of sleep apnea like gasping awake and morning headaches, see your dentist about getting fitted for an oral appliance. Used in conjunction with CPAP therapy, a professionally made mouthguard could help you finally get the deep, rejuvenating sleep you’ve been dreaming of.

Correct Your Jaw Alignment and Relieve TMD

Growing up, I noticed my dad’s jaw would make loud popping sounds when he chewed or opened his mouth wide to yawn. As an adult, I started developing the same annoying clicking jaw along with a dull achy pain in front of my ear. The discomfort worsened when chewing crunchy or hard foods.

After examining my jaws, my dentist diagnosed me with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). He explained how years of clenching, grinding, and uneven bite alignment had damaged the cartilage disks cushioning my TMJs. The remedy involved wearing a soft repositioning mouthguard each night to relieve pressure on the joints and retrain my jaws into proper alignment.

The results were remarkable. Within weeks my jaw pain and popping had practically vanished thanks to realigning my bite with the mouthguard. Previously loud crunching sounds when eating are gone. I can fully open and close my mouth again without any locking sensations thanks to taking the strain off my overworked TMJs.

If your jaws are painfully popping out of place, see your dentist right away for an evaluation. Left untreated, TMD causes degenerative damage to the jaw joints resulting in chronic pain. Fit
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Mouthguards Protect Your Pearly Whites from Damage

Like me, you probably don’t think much about protecting your pearly whites during the day. But at night, I used to grind and clench my teeth something fierce. I’d wake up with a sore jaw and sensitive teeth. My dentist said I was wearing down the enamel and chipping my teeth – yikes!

She suggested I try wearing a mouthguard at night. I kinda laughed, thinking mouthguards were just for boxers and football players. But I was desperate for relief, so I got fitted for a custom nighttime mouthguard.

And let me tell you, this little piece of plastic has been a total game changer! Not only has it saved my teeth from further damage, it’s also improved my sleep. Who knew something so simple could make such a big difference?

Guard Your Teeth from Grinding Damage

If you grind or clench your teeth, you’re putting a lot of pressure on them. We exert around 200 pounds of force during bruxism – that’s like having a grown man standing on your teeth!

Over time, all that force chips away at the enamel and can even crack or break teeth. Ouch! A mouthguard protects your pearly whites by absorbing some of that intense pressure.

Prevent Painful Cracks and Breaks

I actually chipped a tooth from all my nighttime teeth grinding. One morning I woke up and felt a sharp edge on my molar. Not fun!

The dentist had to smooth it down, but said if I didn’t get a mouthguard, it would likely keep chipping or even crack all the way through. No thank you!

Now when I wake up in the morning, my teeth are protected and pain-free. What a relief!

Strengthen Your Jaw Muscles

Sometimes we clench our jaws without even realizing it. This constant tension can make the muscles sore and tired.

The gentle resistance from wearing a mouthguard forces you to relax those muscles. Over time, it can even strengthen and retrain them.

I’ve noticed my jaw feels less tense and I have fewer headaches. Turns out supporting proper muscle use can reduce pain and discomfort.

Protect Your Investment in Dental Work

Like many people, I have a lot of money invested in my smile – braces as a teenager, veneers, implants, the works!

Grinding was starting to undo all that expensive dental work. My veneers were getting worn down and an implant was damaged.

A custom night guard protects these pricey repairs and restorations. I really can’t afford to have them constantly redone, so protecting my investment is key.

Reduce Stress on Implants

Dental implants don’t have the same shock absorption as natural teeth. The titanium posts are fused right to your jawbone.

So all that bruxism force goes straight to the implant and surrounding bone structures. That can lead to fractures, damage, and even implant failure.

But a simple mouthguard absorbs a lot of that stress, protecting your implants and prosthetic teeth.

Choose the Best Mouthguard for Your Needs

Now that you know the damage grinding and clenching can do, you’re probably wondering what kind of mouthguard is most effective.

Opt for Custom-Fit Guards

Boil-and-bite mouthguards you mold yourself with hot water provide basic protection.

But custom-made guards from your dentist offer a more comfortable, precise fit. Impressions of your teeth are used to create a guard that feels like it was made just for you (because it was!).

Material Matters

Hard acrylic or metal lamination provides the most protection. But it can be uncomfortable for some.

Softer materials like thermoplastic are easier on the jaws. But thin, soft guards may wear out faster.

Talk to your dentist about finding the right material for your needs.

Daytime Guards

If you clench or grind during the day, you might benefit from a daytime mouthguard. They are thinner and more discreet.

I tried one for a while when I noticed myself clenching at work during stressful meetings. It really helped!

The Takeaway

Who knew something as simple as a mouthguard could protect your teeth, strengthen your jaw, reduce pain, and even improve your sleep?

If you grind, clinch, or have damaged teeth, consider getting fitted for a custom night guard. It’s been one of the best dental investments I’ve made!

Sweet dreams and happy (protected) teeth!

Reduce Headaches and Migraines Caused by Clenching

Like many peeps, I used to get wicked headaches and migraines on the reg. It felt like someone was squee squeezing my head in a vise grip. Not to be dramatic, but it was agony!

I popped pain pills daily, but they barely took the edge off. When the migraines hit, I’d be down for the count in a dark room for days. It was the pits!

After getting my noodle checked out, my doc asked if I clenched my teeth. I was like, “I dunno, maybe?” Turns out I was clenching like crazy, especially while sleeping.

The constant tension was causing muscle spasms and putting pressure on my nerves. This led to…you guessed it – brutal headaches and migraines. Blerg!

Relax Your Jaw, Ease the Pain

Clenching and grinding creates a vicious cycle of pain. The headaches cause anxiety and stress, leading to more clenching, leading to more headaches. Rinse and repeat.

Wearing an adult mouthguard at night helps break the cycle. The guard keeps your jaws slightly apart, allowing those muscles to fully relax.

Taking the strain off the muscles decreases triggers for headaches and migraines. It’s like giving your head a little vacay!

Break the Pain Chain

Even if you’re not aware of clenching, you could be doing damage. I had no clue until the dentist pointed it out!

Subconsciously tensing your jaw all night strains the muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. This causes inflammation and pain.

A mouthguard protects your teeth so you can relax. The more chill you keep your jaw, the fewer headaches you’ll get.

Sleep Better, Hurt Less

You know when you have a killer headache and struggle to sleep? The lack of rest just makes the pain worse.

It’s a vicious cysle! But wearing a comfy mouthguard can help you snooze peacefully without clenching.

Quality Zzz’s allows your muscles to heal and reduces migraine triggers. It’s like a one-two punch against pain!

Try Yoga for Jaw Relief

Along with wearing a mouthguard, I picked up yoga to help relax my muscles.

Certain poses target the neck, shoulders, and jaw. By gently stretching the area, I release a lot of built-up tension.

Combining that with a splint at night led to way fewer headaches. Namaste for pain relief!

Choose the Right Mouthguard

Now that you know how mouthguards can squash head pain, let’s explore the options:

Get a Custom Fit

For maximum comfort and effectiveness, get a custom mouthguard from your dentist.

They’ll take molds of your teeth and make an appliance specifically for your mouth. Having that perfect fit will make it easier to wear the guard all night.

Material Matters

Hard acrylic guards offer protection but can be uncomfortable. Try a softer one like thermoplastic if that’s an issue.

You want something that will stay in place but is gentle on your jaw. Finding that sweet spot takes some trial and error.

Daytime Guards

You can even get mini mouthguards to wear during the day if you notice frequent clenching.

I tried one at work when my clenching and headaches got really bad. It helped me stay chill until I got used to the night guard.

The Bottom Line

Teeth clenching and grinding can cause brutal headaches and migraines.

Wearing an adult mouthguard allows your jaw muscles to fully relax and decreases pain triggers.

Along with other therapies like yoga, a custom night guard can help break the cycle of pain. Peace out, headaches!

Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Like many peeps, I didn’t give much thought to protecting my pearly whites and gums. I brushed twice a day and saw my dentist for cleanings. Seemed like enough, ya know?

But years of nighttime teeth grinding and clenching took a toll. I started getting cavities in teeth that had previously been healthy. My gums were red, swollen and kept bleeding. Not a good scene!

My dentist explained that all the pressure and friction from the bruxism was causing micro-fractures, wearing down the enamel, and irritating my gums. This allowed bacteria to more easily sneak in and wreak havoc.

Strengthen Your Enamel

Enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. It’s the main defense against tooth decay.

But grinding wears away at that enamel, leaving tiny cracks and openings. This gives cavity-causing bacteria a way into the more sensitive tooth layers.

A mouthguard provides a shield, preventing the enamel from being damaged so bacteria can’t get in.

Fight Off Gum Disease

Gum disease happens when bacteria build up in the pockets around the teeth and gums.

Clenching and grinding causes inflammation and small tears, allowing more bacteria to enter the gums. This leads to swelling, bleeding, and infections.

Wearing a guard decreases friction and irritation, protecting your gums from excessive bacteria exposure.

Don’t Let Bruxism Boost Decay

Without a mouthguard, the constant grinding makes the perfect environment for cavities. Enamel wears down, gums recede, bacteria feasts.

Not only are you more prone to new decay, old fillings can get cracked and damaged too, needing repair.

Protecting your chompers with a guard reduces the decay factor, saving you dental work down the road.

Protect Crowns and Veneers

Got bling in your mouth like crowns, bridges or veneers? Protect your investment by wearing a mouthguard to bed.

That pressure can damage costly dental work, leading to cracks, pops and breaks. No one wants a cracked crown!

A proper night guard absorbs force, keeping your dental investments as good as new.

Choosing the Best Mouthguard

Convinced you need some protection? Let’s explore mouthguard options:

Skip the Drugstore Guards

While boil-and-bite guards you mold at home are affordable, the fit and protection is limited.

Really make an impact with a custom guard from your dentist. Fit is crucial, so leave it to the pros!

Material Matters

Guards come in soft or hard materials. A thinner, softer one may be more comfy but wear down faster.

Harder acrylic or laminated guards offer maximum protection but can be uncomfortable. Finding the right balance is key.

Daytime Options

You can get mini mouthguards to wear during the day if you notice frequent clenching.

When my cavities started forming, my dentist had me wear a day guard too until the night one kicked in.

Takeaway

Neglecting bruxism allows bacteria to party in your mouth, leading to decay, gum disease, and damage.

Protect your chompers, save dental work, and prevent pain by wearing a custom night guard.

Your pearly whites and gums will thank you!

Improve Your Athletic Performance

As an avid weekend warrior, I’m always looking for ways to up my athletic game. My bros suggested trying a mouthguard after taking one too many balls or elbows to the face during our pickup b-ball games.

I laughed it off at first, thinking mouthguards were just for pro athletes. But after doing some research, I discovered they can actually improve performance in some surprising ways!

Protect Your Pearly Whites

Most obviously, a mouthguard protects your chompers from damage. No one wants a chipped or lost tooth from a stray ball or accidental hit.

Less worry about dental injuries means you can play harder without hesitation. Don’t let a fear of busted teeth hold you back!

Breathe Easier

During intense exercise, many people unconsciously clench their teeth. This restricts airflow and makes it harder to catch your breath.

A mouthguard helps you maintain an even bite, allowing maximum oxygen intake. Being able to breathe freely gives you more endurance.

See Clearer, Play Smarter

Gnashing and grinding your teeth during competition tenses the neck and jaw muscles. This can result in squinting, blurred vision, and mental distraction.

With a guard keeping your jaw relaxed, your eye muscles stay loose and vision stays clear. Seeing the ball well and staying focused leads to quicker decisions and smarter gameplay.

Prevent Concussion

Getting clocked in the mouth can result in a concussion as your brain rattles inside your skull.

Wearing a shock-absorbing mouthguard provides protection by cushioning blows to the face and jaw that might otherwise affect the brain.

Less risk of concussion means you can play harder without as much worry.

Strengthen Your Jaw

The resistance from clenching on a mouthguard forces your jaw muscles to work harder. Over time, this leads to increased power and endurance.

Stronger jaw and neck muscles transfer to better form, more stamina, and additional force in your game. Just don’t Hulk out too much!

Choosing the Right Mouthguard

Convinced of the benefits? Here are some tips for picking the best mouthguard for your sport:

Custom is Best

For maximum protection and ease of breathing, invest in a custom mouthguard from your dentist.

They’ll take precise molds of your teeth for a flawless fit. Having one tailored to your mouth is worth it.

Find the Right Fit

Make sure your guard is designed specifically for the type of activity. Options include lip guards, low profile, and braces-friendly.

Work with your dentist to find the best guard for your sport that also maximizes air intake through your mouth.

Care Matters

Clean your guard regularly with soap and water and store it safely so it lasts. Replace it annually or when you notice wear and tear.

A well-cared for guard does its job much better and for longer.

The Takeaway

A custom athletic mouthguard not only protects your pearly whites, but can improve breathing, focus, endurance and overall performance.

Gear up with the right mouthguard so you can take your weekend warrior game to the next level!

Stop Snoring and Sleep Apnea for Better Sleep

I never thought much about my snoring until my partner started elbowing me in the middle of the night. Apparently I sounded like a freight train and kept them awake!

After a sleep study, I was diagnosed with mild sleep apnea. When I realized the health risks, I committed to doing whatever necessary to sleep quietly and breathe freely.

Open Your Airway

Loud snoring and sleep apnea happen when throat tissues partially block the airway. This causes choppy breathing, oxygen drops, and snorting/gasping.

A mouthguard gently positions your jaw forward to open up the airway so air flows freely in and out. The difference in breathing is amazing!

Reduce Sleep Disruptions

Between the snoring and apnea events, my sleep quality was lousy. I woke up constantly and felt drowsy all day.

Wearing a guard stopped the snoring and gasping so I finally slept through the night. I woke up feeling so much more energized and rested.

Prevent Heart Complications

Sleep apnea decreases oxygen levels in the blood, which can stress the heart. It even increases the risk of things like high blood pressure and arrhythmias.

Treating the apnea with a mouthguard lowers those cardiovascular risks and lets you breathe and sleep easy.

Decrease Stress Hormones

The repeated drops in oxygen from sleep apnea trigger your body to release stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.

A mouthguard maintains healthy oxygen levels so less of those hormones are released. This leads to feeling more relaxed and calm.

Improve Concentration

It’s no wonder I had trouble focusing during the day after my restless, disrupted sleep.

Once I started using a guard and waking up refreshed, my productivity and concentration improved tremendously.

Choosing the Best Mouthguard

Convinced you need an anti-snore guard? Here are some tips for choosing the most effective one:

Get a Custom Fit

For maximum comfort and effectiveness, get a custom mouthguard made by your dentist.

They’ll take precise impressions of your teeth and craft a guard tailored specifically to your mouth.

Adjustability is Key

Look for a guard your dentist can tweak by adjusting the fit and jaw positioning.

As you get used to wearing it, minor adjustments may help open your airway even more.

Material Options

Soft guards are comfortable but wear down faster. Hard acrylic lasts longer but can be irritating.

Talk with your dentist about the right material for your needs and preferences.

The Takeaway

A custom mouthguard can drastically reduce snoring and sleep apnea events.

Opening your airway leads to easier breathing, better sleep quality, more energy, and improved health.

Regaining restful sleep is life changing. The guard really did transform my nights!

Correct Your Jaw Alignment and Relieve TMD

For years I woke up with achy, stiff jaws. Some mornings it even hurt to chew. I chalked it up to stress or getting older and figured I just had to live with it.

But when my dentist diagnosed me with TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), suddenly my sore jaw made sense. She said my nighttime teeth grinding had misaligned my bite and thrown my whole jaw out of whack. Yikes!

Realign Your Jaw

TMD happens when the ball and socket TMJ joints on both sides of your jaw don’t align properly. This strains the muscles and leads to pain.

Wearing a mouthguard each night helps position your jaw in a more natural, relaxed alignment so the joints can function correctly again.

Take the Pressure Off

All that grinding forces your upper and lower teeth together, putting tremendous pressure on the joints. Over time, this wears down the cartilage and causes inflammation.

A mouthguard acts as a buffer between your teeth, cushioning the joints and alleviating some of that damaging pressure.

Improve Your Bite

The misaligned jaw from TMD can throw your whole bite off. You might feel like your top and bottom teeth don’t fit together right.

As the guard helps realign your jaw, it also enables your teeth to return to their proper bite position.

Relax Your Muscles

Along with jaw pain, TMD often causes sore, stiff facial and neck muscles. Years of clenching and grinding overworks these muscles.

Wearing a guard helps relax the muscles at night so they can heal. Stretching and massage can further reduce tension.

Choosing the Best Mouthguard

Searching for the perfect guard to realign your jaw? Here’s how to pick:

See Your Dentist

For a proper TMD diagnosis and treatment plan, make an appointment with your dentist’s office.

They can examine your bite, joints, and muscles. Then craft a customized mouthguard to meet your specific needs.

Prioritize Comfort

Your mouthguard needs to be one you can wear comfortably all night, every night. Otherwise, it won’t help.

Work with your dentist to find the design and material that you can sleep with pain-free.

Make Adjustments

Schedule regular dental checkups to monitor your progress with the mouthguard. Small tweaks can help it realign your jaw even better.

The Takeaway

A misaligned jaw can lead to painful, debilitating TMD. But a comfortable, custom mouthguard can help realign your bite and finally relieve the discomfort.

Say goodbye to morning jaw pain and get ready to smile wider with improved alignment!

Decrease Stress and Anxiety from Nighttime Teeth Grinding

Tossing and turning all night, waking up with a sore jaw, or finding your partner elbowing you to stop grinding your teeth? You’re not alone. Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, affects over a third of adults. And it can seriously disrupt your sleep and cause anxiety. But there’s a simple solution that can help – wearing an adult mouthguard at night.

Bruxism often occurs during sleep as a result of stress or anxiety. Through the night, you may unconsciously clench your jaw or grind your teeth together. This puts pressure on the muscles, tissues, and structures around your jaw joint. It can lead to symptoms like:

• Headaches
• Jaw soreness
• Tooth pain
• Damage to teeth, fillings, or crowns

Teeth grinding may also be a sign of a sleep disorder like sleep apnea. And the lack of quality sleep can further increase feelings of stress and anxiety, leading to a vicious cycle.

Could an Adult Mouthguard Transform Your Sleep?

Wearing a mouthguard designed for adults can help break this cycle by protecting your teeth from grinding. Also called a night guard or dental guard, it covers your teeth to absorb the force from bruxism. This prevents pain, damage, and complications.

But surprisingly, using a mouthguard doesn’t just alleviate the symptoms of teeth grinding. It can also improve the quality of your sleep and lower stress and anxiety levels. Here are some of the benefits you may not have known:

1. Reduces muscle tension – Clenching your jaw causes muscle tension in your head, neck, and shoulders. A mouthguard helps relax these muscles so you can sleep better.
2. Lowers stress hormones – Grinding your teeth releases stress hormones like cortisol. Preventing bruxism helps normalize hormone levels.
3. Lessens pain – By protecting your teeth, gums, and jaw joint from pressure, a mouthguard can prevent pain that disrupts sleep.
4. Decreases anxiety – Better quality sleep and lowered stress hormones lead to less anxiety. This reduces teeth grinding at night.
5. Allows muscles to rest – Your jaw muscles can relax instead of continuously contracting through the night.
6. Improves sleep for partners – If you grind your teeth loudly, a mouthguard reduces noises that disturb bed partners.

In essence, an adult mouthguard works to improve your sleep by reducing the causes and symptoms of bruxism. And better sleep means lowered stress and anxiety.

Choosing the Best Mouthguard for You

The right mouthguard needs to fit your mouth correctly and be comfortable to wear all night. Options include:

• Custom-fit – Made specifically for your mouth by a dentist using dental impressions. More expensive but offers the best fit.
• Boil and bite – Formed at home by softening in hot water and biting down. Affordable but may not fit perfectly.
• Standard – Less customized fit. Mainly protects upper teeth.

Factors like the severity of your bruxism and your budget will help determine the best choice. Your dentist can recommend the right mouthguard based on your needs. They can also check for signs of teeth grinding at your regular dental visits.

Initially, getting used to sleeping with a mouthguard may feel strange. Try it for a few nights to adjust. You’ll quickly realize the benefits for a more restful sleep. And with reduced stress and anxiety, you’ll wake up feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day.

Treating teeth grinding doesn’t need to be complicated. Something as simple as wearing an adult mouthguard can help decrease anxiety and improve sleep. Give it a try for a few nights. You may be amazed by how much better you feel.

Prevent Costly Dental Work and Tooth Restoration

Do you dread your dentist visits because of the endless drilling, crowns, and expensive bills? Teeth grinding could be the culprit behind your dental woes. But protecting your teeth at night with an adult mouthguard can help prevent further costly dental work.

Also called bruxism, teeth grinding involves clenching or grinding your teeth together forcefully. This constant pressure can wear down tooth enamel, chip teeth, and cause fractures over time. Before you know it, you’re facing procedures like crowns, implants, or bridges to restore the damage.

The costs quickly add up. The average crown costs around $1000 per tooth. And a dental implant with abutment can total $4000-$5000. Extensive reconstructive work sums up to thousands of dollars, not including maintenance costs down the road.

But bruxism isn’t just hard on your wallet – it also takes a toll on your overall oral health. Symptoms include:

• Tooth sensitivity
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Worn down teeth
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Pain while chewing

Left untreated, the results worsen over time. Soon you may deal with lost teeth, gum recession, jaw disorders, and the inability to chew properly.

Could an Adult Mouthguard Transform Your Smile?

The good news? Protecting your teeth while you sleep with an adult mouthguard can prevent further dental disasters. Wearing a mouthguard absorbs the damaging forces placed on teeth during grinding and clenching.

This simple solution shields your teeth, restoring your smile for a fraction of the cost of dental restorations. And studies show mouthguard use significantly reduces tooth wear over time. Benefits of wearing one at night include:

1. Prevents chipping and cracking of teeth
2. Stops enamel wear that causes sensitivity
3. Protects dental work like crowns or bridges
4. Saves money on dental treatment costs
5. Allows natural teeth to be preserved
6. Reduces pain from bruxism
7. Can be worn with orthodontics like braces

In the long run, a mouthguard is an inexpensive tool to save your smile. The one-time cost pales in comparison to future dental restoration work. And the simple fix prevents the pain and hassle of significant dental procedures.

Choosing the Best Mouthguard for Your Needs

With custom-fit options from your dentist or inexpensive do-it-yourself versions, picking the right mouthguard is key. Consider factors like:

• Fit – A tighter fit ensures better protection.
• Comfort – It needs to be worn all night long.
• Budget – Costs range from $10-$500+.
• Severity of grinding – More intense bruxism requires a sturdier option.

A custom night guard made by your dentist offers the best fit and protection. While pricier, it can save you thousands in avoided dental work over time. Even drugstore versions that you mold at home provide decent protection.

Talk to your dentist about finding the best mouthguard for your needs. They can also evaluate potential damage from bruxism and suggest solutions. Acting now to protect your teeth prevents costly repairs down the road.

Don’t wait until you have a mouth full of crowns, implants, and problems. Simple steps like wearing a mouthguard at night can save your smile. Prevent painful dental procedures and keep your teeth healthy and strong for years to come.

Why spend thousands on tooth restoration when a custom or store-bought mouthguard can shield your smile? Comfortably worn while you sleep, it protects your investment in your teeth. Stop grinding away your hard-earned money and preserve your pearly whites instead!

Choose Custom vs Boil & Bite Guard for Comfort

Looking for an adult mouthguard to stop teeth grinding and jaw pain? The right fit is critical for comfort all night long. Custom mouthguards made by your dentist provide the best customized fit. But boil and bite options you mold at home can also work if fitted properly.

First, why wear a mouthguard at all? Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, often happens unconsciously at night. It leads to symptoms like:

• Headaches
• Sore jaw muscles
• Tooth sensitivity
• Damage to teeth

A mouthguard protects your teeth from the forces of clenching and grinding. But comfort is also key for all-night wear. An ill-fitting guard feels bulky and awkward, disrupting your sleep.

Benefits of Custom Guards from Your Dentist

Custom night guards are specially created for your unique mouth, teeth, and bite. Your dentist makes dental impressions of your teeth, which are used to design the guard. It’s then custom-fabricated from this model to fit your mouth precisely.

Benefits of custom-fit guards include:

• Made specifically for your mouth
• Perfectly comfortable fit
• Won’t shift or loosen overnight
• Allows you to speak and drink water
• Can be adjusted for optimal comfort

Although more expensive than other versions, custom guards provide the best fit and comfort for nighttime wear. You’ll barely notice it’s there as you sleep.

Fitting Boil and Bite Guards at Home

Over-the-counter boil and bite mouthguards mold to your teeth at home. You soften the plastic in hot water, then bite down to create an impression as it cools. They come ready to wear or as moldable blanks.

The benefits include:

• Convenient and inexpensive
• Available at pharmacies without a prescription
• Can re-mold if needed

The downside – the fit may not be perfect. Without custom impressions, boil and bite guards may feel bulky and move around in your mouth. But proper fitting technique can improve comfort.

Be sure to:

• Soften according to package directions, testing temperature
• Bite down firmly, sucking out air bubbles
• Don’t trim excess until material is completely cooled
• Smooth rough edges if needed

Take time molding for an optimal personalized fit. Test comfort before trimming material. You can re-mold again if needed. A snug but comfortable boil-and-bite guard stays put all night.

Finding the Best Fit for You

Choosing between custom and boil-and-bite mouthguards depends on factors like:

• Budget – Custom is more expensive
• Fit – Custom offers superior fit
• Convenience – Boil-and-bite is easily accessible
• Bruxism severity – More intense grinding may need custom guard

Talk to your dentist about the right option based on your needs and preferences. They can take impressions for a custom night guard or recommend a good boil-and-bite brand.

Whichever you choose, wearing it consistently is key. At first it may feel strange, but your mouth will adjust. The benefits of protection and prevention of tooth damage are well worth it.

Why toss and turn all night with jaw pain when a comfortable mouthguard can help? Achieve restful sleep and say goodbye to headaches and soreness. Consult your dentist and give an adult mouthguard a try for better comfort and more peaceful sleep.

Pick Hard vs Soft Material for Your Needs

Shopping for an adult mouthguard to prevent teeth grinding and protect your smile? One key decision is choosing a hard or soft material. Factors like your bruxism severity, gum health, and personal preference come into play.

First, why wear a mouthguard at all during sleep? Through the night, many people unconsciously clench their jaw or grind their teeth together. This forceful habit, known as bruxism, can lead to:

• Tooth pain
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Headaches
• Jaw muscle soreness

A protective mouthguard shields your teeth from damage caused by grinding and clenching. But with options like hard acrylic/plastic or soft flexible materials, what’s best?

Benefits of Hard Guards

Hard, rigid mouthguards are typically custom-made by your dentist from acrylic or plastic. They offer:

• Superior protection from intense bruxism
• More durable and long-lasting
• Less likely to tear or bend
• Easier to clean
• Allows you to speak clearly

The firm structure stands up well over time while shielding teeth from forceful grinding. Hard guards also keep their shape night after night.

Advantages of Soft Guards

Flexible mouthguards use softer vinyl, silicone, or EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) material. Benefits include:

• More comfortable for some
• Easy to mold at home
• Absorb force to cushion teeth
• Adaptable if you have braces
• Gentler on gums

The flexible fit causes less gagging for some wearers. Soft materials absorb harsh grinding force rather than transfer it to teeth and gums.

How to Choose Between Hard and Soft

Consider factors like:

• Bruxism severity – Hard guards offer more protection for intense grinding.
• Gum health – Softer materials cushion sensitive gums.
• Fit – Custom hard guards molded by a dentist fit precisely.
• Budget – Soft guards tend to be less expensive.
• Comfort – Some people find soft more comfortable.

Talk to your dentist about the pros and cons of each material for your needs. They may take dental impressions to craft a custom hard acrylic guard or suggest a good brand of soft guard.

You may need to try both types to determine your personal preference. Maintaining the guard properly also ensures maximum comfort and protection at night.

Don’t let teeth grinding and jaw pain disrupt your sleep. A durable, protective mouthguard provides relief while saving your smile. Choose between rigid and soft materials to find your ideal fit and comfort so you can rest easy.

Tossing and turning from bruxism is painful and damaging over time. Ask your dentist about hard vs soft mouthguard materials so you can make the best choice for your needs and budget. Protect your teeth comfortably so you can sleep soundly night after night.

Find an Oral Appliance for Daytime Wear

Do you deal with jaw pain or teeth grinding during the day? Many people associate bruxism with sleep, but daytime teeth clenching and grinding are common too. Using an oral appliance made for waking hours can help.

Stress or anxiety often trigger bruxism whenever it occurs. Clenching muscles during the day leads to symptoms like:

• Headaches
• Sore jaw
• Neck pain
• Earaches
• Tooth sensitivity

Over time, chronic daily teeth grinding damages teeth and strains facial muscles. An oral appliance worn intermittently throughout the day eases pain and protects your smile.

Benefits of Daytime Mouthguards

Also called occlusal or dental splints, daytime oral appliances work like nightguards worn during sleep. They shield teeth from destructive grinding forces. And they prevent pain by relaxing overworked jaw muscles.

Benefits of wearing an appliance during waking hours include:

• Absorbs impact from clenching and grinding
• Allows muscles to rest and recover
• Reduces headaches and soreness
• Can be worn temporarily as needed
• Protects teeth from further damage
• Portable and discreet

Daytime mouthguards cushion your teeth while providing symptomatic pain relief. Wear them preventively during stressful times or for soreness as needed.

Choosing the Best Daytime Appliance

Factors to consider when selecting an oral device for daytime include:

• Fit – Custom-made appliances offer superior comfort and protection.
• Material – Hard acrylic or soft silicone/plastic options.
• Coverage – Full-arch options versus front teeth only.
• Function – Some feature anterior positioning to improve jaw alignment.

Full-arch mouthguards are recommended for optimal protection and comfort. Your dentist takes impressions of your teeth to fabricate a custom appliance.

Soft low-profile versions are also available to purchase over the counter. They can work well when worn temporarily as needed.

Consult Your Dentist

Schedule a dental exam to evaluate your bruxism and symptoms. Your dentist can:

• Assess any damage to teeth
• Check for alignment problems
• Take impressions for a custom daytime mouthguard
• Recommend specific over-the-counter options
• Provide any needed dental treatment

Consistent daytime use allows your jaw muscles to fully relax. But even occasional wear when you notice clenching helps. The goal is protecting your teeth and reducing pain.

Don’t let headaches and sore jaws interfere with your day. Visit your dentist to discuss solutions like wearing an oral appliance during waking hours. With the right fit and use, you can stop destructive grinding in its tracks.

Relax your jaw and give your teeth a break from constant grinding. A comfortable mouthguard cushions and protects so you can feel your best. Talk to your dentist about finding the perfect oral appliance to use during the day when you need relief.

Cleaning and Caring for Your Night Guard

Congratulations on your new night guard for preventing teeth grinding! Proper care and cleaning will keep it working great night after night.

Wearing your mouthguard regularly stops destructive bruxism, protecting your teeth and providing relief. But like other oral appliances, it needs proper maintenance.

Follow these tips to clean and care for your night guard:

Rinse After Wear

Each morning after wearing your mouthguard, give it a thorough rinse under warm running water. This removes any saliva or debris accumulated overnight.

For a deeper cleaning, use a denture or orthodontic appliance cleaner. Soak the guard for 15-20 minutes to disinfect and deodorize it. Rinse again before storing it.

Brush With Toothpaste

Gently scrub your night guard with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Carefully brush all surfaces – inside and out – to remove built-up plaque and bacteria.

Avoid vigorous brushing, which can cause scratches over time. And don’t use whitening toothpaste, which may damage the color.

Soak in Cleaning Solution

For a thorough periodic cleaning, soak your mouthguard in an appliance cleansing solution. Use a product specifically formulated for cleaning dental devices.

Follow package directions for the proper soaking time. This kills germs, removes odors, and keeps your guard fresh.

Avoid Hot Water

Never boil, microwave, or use hot water on your night guard. The heat can warp and distort the fit. Only use room temperature or cool water when rinsing or soaking.

Let Air Dry

After cleaning, allow your mouthguard to air dry completely before storing it away. Make sure no moisture remains, which can encourage bacteria or mildew.

You can quicken the drying process by blotting it gently with a soft towel first.

Store in a Container

Keep your night guard safe in a hard protective case when you’re not wearing it. This prevents damage from occurring.

Avoid storing it loosely in a bag or wrapped in paper towels which can distort the shape over time.

Be sure to keep the container in a clean, dry location like a bedroom drawer or cabinet.

Inspect Frequently

Check your mouthguard regularly for wear, tear, or permanent stains. Small cracks will eventually lead to breakage. Let your dentist know if a replacement is needed.

Proper care extends the longevity of your guard, protecting your investment.

Get in the habit of cleaning your night guard every day. Proper maintenance keeps it functioning like new while you sleep soundly and grind-free!

Talk to Your Dentist About the Best Mouthguard Option

Looking to protect your teeth from nighttime grinding? Your dentist can recommend the ideal mouthguard based on your needs. Schedule a visit to discuss custom vs over-the-counter and more.

First, why wear a mouthguard at all? Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, commonly happens during sleep. It can lead to:

• Tooth pain
• Headaches
• Loose teeth
• Damage to dental work

A protective guard absorbs the forces placed on teeth, preventing complications. But with many choices available, what’s best for you?

The Benefit of a Dental Exam

Schedule an exam so your dentist can check for signs of bruxism. They’ll look for symptoms like:

• Worn down tooth enamel
• Abfractions along the gumline
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Soreness in jaw muscles

Your dentist can also take impressions to create a custom night guard. This offers a perfect fit for optimal comfort and protection.

Key Questions to Ask Your Dentist

Discuss factors to determine the best mouthguard solution, like:

• Budget – Custom guards are more expensive
• Bruxism severity – More intense grinding requires sturdier protection
• Material – Options include rigid acrylic versus softer flexible material
• Coverage – Full-arch provides better shielding for teeth

A custom-made full-coverage guard from your dentist provides superior protection and a flawless fit. It can also be adjusted over time.

Over-the-Counter Options

Your dentist may recommend a good boil-and-bite mouthguard you mold at home. These are inexpensive and easily accessible.

Talk about proper sizing, molding, and use. OTC guards may require occasional remolding to maintain a snug fit.

While not custom-made, a properly fitted boil-and-bite guard still protects teeth if worn consistently at night.

Consistent Use is Key

Whichever option you choose, wearing your mouthguard every night prevents damage. It may feel unusual at first but becomes second nature.

Follow your dentist’s usage instructions. And see them regularly for guard adjustments or replacements as needed.

The bottom line? Any mouthguard is better than no protection while you sleep! Consult your dentist to find the best solution to stop grinding and save your smile.

Does bruxism leave you with morning soreness and headaches? Talk to your dentist about choosing a mouthguard for relief. With custom or over-the-counter options, you can rest easy and grind-free.

Enjoy a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles with an Adult Mouthguard

Want to protect your pearly whites from teeth grinding at night? An adult mouthguard preserves your smile for years to come.

Bruxism, or unconscious teeth clenching and grinding, commonly happens during sleep. Over time, it can lead to:

• Chipped and cracked teeth
• Tooth sensitivity
• Worn enamel
• Loose teeth
• Headaches and jaw pain

These issues get progressively worse without protection from the forces placed on teeth. A simple mouthguard absorbs impact and shields your smile.

Preserve Your Teeth with a Mouthguard

Wearing a protective guard every night prevents the damaging effects of bruxism over many years. Benefits include:

• Absorbs grinding forces to protect teeth
• Prevents chipped, cracked, and worn teeth
• Reduces jaw pain and headaches
• Saves costly dental work
• Allows natural teeth to be kept long-term

Your teeth will thank you in decades to come! Preventing issues now avoids complex dental treatment later.

Choose the Right Mouthguard

Get a custom night guard from your dentist or an over-the-counter version for optimal protection. Consider factors like:

• Your budget
• Severity of grinding
• Jaw and bite alignment
• Presence of dental work
• Personal preference for fit and feel

A sturdy acrylic guard from your dentist offers a flawless customized fit. Or a properly molded boil-and-bite style can also do the trick.

Make Nightly Wear a Habit

Regular use of your chosen mouthguard is key for lifelong dental health. Over time it will feel natural and become part of your bedtime routine.

See your dentist regularly for check-ups to ensure your guard still fits properly. Make replacements as needed for maximum protection.

Caring for your mouthguard with daily cleaning allows it to work like new every night.

Don’t wait until it’s too late – start protecting your smile today. With consistent use of a comfortable mouthguard, your teeth will stay strong and healthy for years to come.

Want to smile confidently without dental issues? Prevent tooth damage now by wearing a mouthguard to bed. Work with your dentist to find the best solution. Guard your grin and enjoy lifelong dental health!