Most of us don’t even realize we’re doing it. You go to sleep, and somewhere in the night, your jaw clenches and your teeth grind together — sometimes for hours. By morning, you might wake up with a sore jaw, a headache, or worn-down teeth that are slowly losing their strength. Sound familiar? You might be dealing with bruxism, and an occlusal guard could be exactly what you need.
What Is an Occlusal Guard?
An occlusal guard (also called a night guard) is a custom-fitted appliance you wear over your teeth while you sleep. It acts as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding and clenching so your teeth don’t have to take the hit.
Think of it like a shock absorber for your mouth.
Why Does Grinding Matter?
Your teeth are incredibly strong — but they’re not indestructible. Night grinding puts an enormous amount of pressure on them, far more than normal chewing. Over time, this can lead to:
– **Worn-down enamel** — the protective outer layer of your teeth thins out, making them more sensitive and vulnerable to decay
– **Chipped or cracked teeth** — even small fractures add up over time
– **Jaw pain and TMJ issues** — the joint that connects your jaw to your skull can become inflamed and painful
– **Headaches and neck tension** — the muscles you use to clench don’t stop working just because you’re asleep
– **Loose teeth** — in more severe cases, grinding can affect the bone and tissue supporting your teeth
The tricky part is that most people have no idea they grind their teeth until a dentist points out the signs — or until a partner mentions the noise at night.
How Does a Custom Guard Differ From Store-Bought?
You’ve probably seen generic night guards at the pharmacy. While they’re better than nothing, they’re made to fit everyone — which means they fit no one perfectly. A poorly fitting guard can actually make things worse by shifting your bite or causing discomfort that disrupts your sleep.
At Arthur & Arthur Dentistry, we create guards custom-made from a mold of your own teeth. The result is a guard that fits precisely, feels comfortable, and actually stays in place while you sleep. Most patients are surprised by how quickly they get used to wearing one.
Signs You Might Need an Occlusal Guard
Not sure if this applies to you? Here are some common signs we look for:
– You wake up with jaw soreness or headaches
– Your teeth look flatter or shorter than they used to
– Your teeth feel sensitive, especially to temperature
– You notice chips or cracks that weren’t there before
– You’ve been told you grind your teeth in your sleep
If any of these sound familiar, bring it up at your next visit. We can take a close look and let you know whether a guard makes sense for you.
A Small Investment That Protects a Lot
Your teeth have to last a lifetime. Repairing the damage caused by years of grinding — whether that’s fillings, crowns, or more involved treatment — can be costly and time-consuming. An occlusal guard is a simple, non-invasive way to protect what you already have.
If you have questions about night guards or want to find out whether one is right for you, we’re always happy to chat. Give us a call or mention it at your next appointment — your teeth will thank you.
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*Concerned about grinding or jaw pain? Reach out to Arthur & Arthur Dentistry and we’ll help you find the right solution.*