Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, often happens during sleep, making it hard to notice until the damage is already done. Many people wake up with sore jaws, headaches, or even chipped teeth and don’t realize they may be grinding their teeth while sleeping. If you're unsure whether this is happening to you, paying attention to the signs can help prevent serious dental problems.
If you're searching for a solution, a Calgary dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth. But how do you know if you truly need one? Here are 7 key signs that you might be grinding your teeth at night.
1. You Wake Up with Jaw Pain or Soreness
A sore or stiff jaw in the morning is one of the most common signs of nighttime grinding. When your jaw muscles overwork during sleep, they can feel tight or painful by the time you wake up.
2. Frequent Morning Headaches
Tension in the jaw can spread to the head, especially in the temples. If you often wake up with dull headaches, it could be linked to teeth grinding while you sleep.
3. Worn, Flattened, or Chipped Teeth
Excessive grinding slowly wears down your teeth. You may notice your teeth look flatter or more even than before. In more severe cases, your teeth may chip or crack, leading to further dental issues.
4. Tooth Sensitivity
Grinding wears away the protective enamel on your teeth, exposing the sensitive layers beneath. If you feel discomfort when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet, bruxism may be the cause.
5. Disrupted Sleep
Teeth grinding can affect the quality of your sleep. You may wake up feeling unrested, or your sleep partner may complain about the grinding sounds at night.
6. Damage Inside the Cheeks
People who grind their teeth sometimes also bite the inside of their cheeks during sleep. This can cause irritation or even small wounds inside your mouth.
7. Your Dentist Notices the Signs
During a regular check-up, your Calgary dentist might notice signs of wear on your teeth, gum recession, or jaw strain that point to nighttime grinding. Dentists are often the first to identify bruxism during routine visits.
When Should You Consider a Night Guard?
If you're experiencing one or more of the signs above, it may be time to ask about Night Guards in Calgary. A night guard is a custom-fit dental device worn during sleep that helps cushion your teeth, reduce pressure, and protect against further damage.
Benefits of using a night guard include:
- Reduced tooth wear and fracture risk
- Relief from jaw pain and headaches
- Improved quality of sleep
- Prevention of long-term dental problems
Where to Get Help
Ignoring teeth grinding can lead to serious dental issues over time. If you suspect bruxism, don’t wait to get evaluated. A properly fitted night guard could save you from costly dental treatments later on.
If you're looking for reliable Night Guards in Calgary, the team at Inglewood Family Dental in Calgary offers custom-fit solutions tailored to your needs. Our friendly staff is here to help protect your smile and improve your sleep. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward better dental health.
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