At Create a Smile Dentistry, we take every aspect of your health and happiness into consideration. Dr. Ken Moore or Dr. Elena Wiser will design custom-made mouthpieces to help protect your smile from the damaging effects of teeth grinding.
Relief From Chronic Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that often occurs during sleep and may go unnoticed for years. Many patients are unaware they grind their teeth until they begin experiencing jaw pain, headaches, worn enamel, or damage to existing dental work. Left untreated, grinding can lead to long-term oral health issues and chronic discomfort.
At Create a Smile Dentistry in Bloomington, IN, we offer customized solutions to help stop the effects of grinding and protect your teeth while you sleep.Early intervention can prevent costly dental repairs and help restore comfort to your jaw and facial muscles.
Protect Your Teeth From Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding is caused by stress and anxiety, and causes all kinds of pain and symptoms. Some of these complications include:
- Tooth pain.
- Headaches.
- Jaw pain.
- Earaches.
- Damage to existing dental work.
- Damage to the enamel of the teeth.
- Change in bite.
- TMJ disorder.
- Neck pain.
You should take care of teeth grinding before you have to deal with its consequences. It isn’t hard to reverse the issue at Create a Smile Dentistry.
How Can a Night Guard Help With Teeth Grinding?
A night guard is a customized oral appliance worn while you sleep to prevent teeth grinding and reduce pressure on the jaw. Unlike store-bought guards, a professionally made night guard is precisely fitted to your bite for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
By creating a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, a night guard helps prevent enamel wear, fractures, and damage to restorations such as crowns or veneers. It can also reduce jaw tension, morning headaches, and facial soreness caused by overnight grinding.
Custom night guards are discreet, portable, easy to clean, and designed for long-term durability. Most patients adjust quickly and experience noticeable relief within a short period of consistent use.
Teeth Grinding FAQs
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Many people don’t realize they grind until symptoms show up. Common signs include morning jaw soreness, headaches, tooth sensitivity, flattened or worn teeth, or chipped dental work. During an exam, we can often spot wear patterns and discuss next steps.
What causes teeth grinding (bruxism)?
Teeth grinding is often linked to stress, anxiety, sleep disruption, or bite alignment concerns. Some patients also grind during periods of high workload or major life changes. A dental evaluation can help determine likely contributors and the best treatment approach.
Can teeth grinding damage crowns, veneers, or fillings?
Yes. Grinding can place excess pressure on restorations and may contribute to cracks, chipping, loosening, or premature wear. A custom night guard can help protect both natural teeth and existing dental work.
Is a custom night guard better than a store-bought guard?
A custom night guard is designed specifically for your bite for improved comfort, fit, and protection. Over-the-counter guards can be bulky or fit unevenly, which may reduce effectiveness and comfort for some patients.
Will a night guard stop teeth grinding completely?
A night guard helps prevent damage by creating a protective barrier and reducing the strain on the teeth and jaw. Some patients also notice reduced grinding intensity over time, especially when combined with stress reduction and any needed bite or TMJ-related care.
How long does a night guard last?
Lifespan depends on how intensely you grind and how consistently you wear it. Many patients get years of use from a high-quality custom night guard. We’ll monitor wear during regular visits and let you know if replacement is recommended.
How do I clean and care for my night guard?
Rinse it after use, gently brush it with a soft toothbrush, and store it in a ventilated case. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material. We can also recommend cleaning solutions based on your appliance.
Personalized Teeth Grinding Treatment in Bloomington IN
At Create a Smile in Bloomington, we utilize a high-quality dental lab to design durable oral appliances that help eliminate the damaging effects of teeth grinding.Our team carefully evaluates your bite, jaw alignment, and symptoms to ensure your night guard provides optimal protection and comfort.
If you grind your teeth or experience jaw pain, headaches, or worn teeth, schedule your visit with Dr. Moore or Dr. Wiser today to discuss your options. Treatment may be easier than you ever thought possible.Call today!
