Grinding Your Teeth at Night? We Can Help!

Do you wake up with headaches and jaw pain? Are your teeth worn or more sensitive than usual? If so, you may be one of the 30 percent of people who grind and clench their teeth, a condition known as bruxism. Our dedicated dentists and team at Highlight Family Dentistry of Hutto have the solution you need: high-quality, custom-fitted mouthguards, also known as night guards.   

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is a condition characterized by grinding, clenching, or unconsciously gnashing your teeth. It can occur while you are awake but most often happens during sleep. Many people are unaware that they suffer from bruxism, which, if left untreated, can lead to long-term complications, including the following:  

• Tooth Wear and Fractures: The constant grinding and pressure can result in severe tooth wear and can even create fractures, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and pain. 
• Jaw Pain and Tension: Bruxism can cause chronic pain in the jaw muscles and joints, often leading to TMJ disorders.
• Headaches and Earaches: The tension from grinding and clenching can extend to the muscles in the neck, ear, and head, causing frequent morning headaches and earaches.
• Sleep Disturbance: If your teeth grinding is severe enough, it can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to sleep disorders. 
• Gum Recession: Bruxism can also lead to increased pressure on the gums, potentially causing them to recede or become damaged over time.

What Is a Night Guard? 

A night guard is a custom mouthguard that fits snugly over your teeth, similar to a retainer. Also known as a nocturnal bite plate or an occlusal guard, your protective oral appliance provides a barrier, keeping your upper and lower teeth from coming into contact with one another. It also helps distribute the forces of grinding and clenching, similar to a shock absorber.

Night guards help protect the chewing surfaces of your teeth and your dental restorations. They can also help relieve jaw pain and reduc the risk of TMJ disorders by relaxing your jaw joints and preventing movements that cause muscle tightness or inflammation. 

Your adult teeth are the only ones you have, so it is important to take the necessary steps to protect them. Doing so can help ensure they last you a lifetime, maintaining your oral health and quality of life. 

How Is Your Mouthguard Made?

We will take impressions of your teeth, which we will use as blueprints to create your night guard. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, our custom-fit oral appliances are made from high-quality, durable materials, offering exceptional comfort and maximum protection for your smile.

Custom Fit Mouthguards Near Me in Hutto, TX

Contact Highlight Family Dentistry to learn more about safeguarding your smile with a durable and comfortable mouthguard. Our dedicated dentists and team provide tailored bruxism solutions to help relieve your symptoms and enhance your quality of life. Call us at (512) 886-2644 to schedule an appointment, or book one online today!