Do You Grind Your Teeth at Night? Here’s Why a Custom Night Guard Might Be the Solution

By Dr. Cassia Braulio – Glen Erin Dental

Dear Patients,

Have you ever woken up with jaw pain, headaches, or felt like your teeth were sensitive for no clear reason? These can be signs that you’re grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep — a condition known as bruxism. And while it may happen silently overnight, the effects can build up quickly and quietly cause long-term damage to your smile.

That’s where a custom-fitted night guard comes in.

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard (also known as a bite splint or nocturnal bite plate) is a removable dental appliance that fits comfortably over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. It’s designed to act as a protective barrier between your teeth — preventing the harmful effects of grinding and clenching.

At Glen Erin Dental, we create custom night guards molded specifically for your bite, ensuring the highest level of comfort, durability, and protection.

Why You Might Need One

Protection from Wear and Fractures

Grinding and clenching can wear down tooth enamel, cause chips, fractures, and even damage dental work like crowns and fillings. A night guard acts like a cushion, absorbing the pressure and preventing direct tooth-to-tooth contact.

Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation

Many patients experience relief from headaches, jaw tension, and neck pain once they begin wearing their night guard regularly. That’s because the appliance helps to relax overactive jaw muscles, reducing strain during sleep.

Support for TMJ Disorders

If you suffer from TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction, a custom-fitted night guard can help stabilize your jaw, reduce clicking or popping sounds, and ease discomfort caused by joint misalignment.

Adjunct Therapy for Sleep Apnea

In some cases, night guards can be part of a treatment plan for mild obstructive sleep apnea, helping to keep your airway open by gently repositioning the lower jaw.

Why a Custom Night Guard Is Better

Over-the-counter guards may seem like a quick fix, but they rarely fit properly and can be bulky, uncomfortable, or ineffective over time.

At Glen Erin Dental, we take a precise impression of your teeth to create a night guard that fits snugly and comfortably. Our custom appliances are:

• Slim and durable

• Easy to clean and wear

• Designed for long-term use

• Tailored to your bite and needs

Protect Your Smile While You Sleep

If you’ve noticed signs of grinding or clenching — or you’ve been diagnosed with bruxism or TMJ — I encourage you to speak with us. A custom night guard might be the simple yet powerful solution that protects your teeth, relieves your discomfort, and helps you wake up refreshed.

Your smile deserves protection — even while you sleep.

Warm regards,
Dr. Cassia Braulio
Glen Erin Dental