If you often wake up with a sore jaw or a dull headache, you might be experiencing bruxism, more commonly known as teeth grinding. Our dentist and team understand how disruptive and damaging this condition can be to your oral health. For this reason, we recommend considering the use of a night guard — a simple yet effective solution to protect your teeth and alleviate the symptoms of bruxism.
Bruxism can occur both consciously during the day and unconsciously at night. However, nighttime grinding is often more problematic because it is harder to control. Without intervention, bruxism can lead to a variety of dental issues, including:
- Chronic jaw pain, facial pain and even ear pain
- A morning feeling of tiredness or tightness in the jaw muscles
- Frequent tension headaches and migraines triggered by the strain of clenching
- Excessive tooth wear, resulting in chipped, flattened or cracked teeth
- Erosion of the enamel, exposing the sensitive inner layers of your teeth
- Indentations on your tongue and increased tooth sensitivity
- Increased risk of TMJ disorders and related problems
A custom-made night guard, tailored to fit your teeth precisely, provides a barrier between your upper and lower teeth. By wearing a night guard, you can:
- Prevent direct contact between teeth, protecting them from excessive wear and damage
- Reduce the strain on your jaw muscles, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort
- Decrease the likelihood of headaches and improve your overall quality of sleep
Using our advanced scanning technologies, our dentist and team can take highly precise impressions of your teeth, creating an accurate digital model that will ensure your night guard fits perfectly and offers you the most comfortable and effective protection possible.
We invite you to call or text us at 270-753-1572 to schedule your consultation with Dr. James Wells and learn if a night guard in Murray, Kentucky, is right for you. We are dedicated to providing top-tier care and helping you maintain optimal oral health.