Have you ever woken up with a sore jaw or dull headache and tried to understand why? Maybe you have noticed your teeth are sensitive, or maybe even looked like they are wearing down a little. These could be indications of teeth-grinding, or bruxism, and you may not even be aware that you are doing it! A mouthguard is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the long-term consequences of teeth grinding.
A dentist in SW Calgary services will usually recommend early intervention with a custom mouth guard to protect your smile and minimize any future dental issues.
Most people who are grinding their teeth typically do it at night and over time often don’t even realize that they are doing it! While teeth grinding might seem harmless at first glance, grinding can do serious and permanent damage to your teeth, jaw, and potentially to your quality of sleep! Here is a list if you are one the perfect candidates for them-
1. You Wake Up with Jaw Pain or Headaches
Waking up with a sore or tight jaw is one of the most obvious signs of teeth grinding. It can also lead to headaches in the morning, often around the temples (i.e., tension headaches). Many people do not realize they are clenching their teeth at night until they feel discomfort after waking. After a consultation with a dentist near you, they may recommend a custom night guard to help relieve tension in your jaw and ensure you don’t do any further damage to your teeth!
2. Your Teeth are Worn Down or Chipped
Are your teeth looking flat, appear short (for no reason), or are they starting to chip? Grinding can wear down enamel over time, making it susceptible to cracks and breakage. Damage of this variety can be permanent if allowed to worsen.
For individuals needing teeth grinding treatment, a mouthguard is a great, non-invasive, effective way to protect the teeth from more damage while a person sleeps.
3. You have Increased Tooth Sensitivity
If eating hot, cold, or sweet food suddenly makes you wince, you may have dentin exposed from grinding. The wear of enamel from grinding makes the teeth and gums susceptible to cavities. Having this sensitivity is not something to ignore.
Many patients receive relief from wearing mouth guards in SW Calgary, as it acts as a shock absorber for the teeth to help prevent sensitivity from worsening over time.
4. Your sleep is interrupted frequently
Grinding at night can cause you to wake up multiple times during the night with no visible reason. You may feel tired in the morning after spending 8 hours in bed. The interrupted sleep from grinding can impact a person’s mood, energy and focus during the day. Wearing a nightguard can allow you to manage sleep better by decreasing the activity in your jaw as you sleep
5. Others Notice the Sounds of Grinding
Believe it or not, many people first learn they grind their teeth because someone else hears it. The noise of grinding can be surprisingly loud and disturbing to a partner or family member. This feedback is a clear sign that your teeth are under nightly stress. In cases like this, getting a mouth guard for teeth grinding early on can prevent lasting damage and discomfort.
6. You’re Feeling Stressed or Anxious Often
Stress is one of the biggest triggers for teeth grinding. Whether it’s pressure from school, work, or personal life, anxiety can cause your jaw to tense up even when you’re not aware of it. While finding healthy coping mechanisms is important, using a mouth guard can offer immediate protection while you manage stress in other ways.
Protect your smile tonight for a healthier tomorrow
Taking care of your teeth isn’t just about brushing and flossing. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it may be time to take the next step in protecting your oral health.
At Atlas Dental Centre, we believe everyone deserves a healthy, pain-free smile. Our team of caring professionals is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Using the latest dental technology and gentle techniques, we ensure your experience is comfortable and effective. Whether you need preventive advice or specialized treatment, Atlas Dental Centre is here to support your journey to better oral health.
Ready to take action? Book your appointment today at Atlas Dental Centre — your trusted partner in keeping your smile safe.