Do you ever wake up with an achy jaw or a throbbing headache that simply won’t go away? Have you noticed your teeth looking worn down or feeling more sensitive? If so, you could be grinding or clenching your teeth while sleeping. The good news? Preventive dentistry and a custom night guard from Thomas F. Brown, DDS, are simple solutions to protect your teeth and help you wake up feeling refreshed.
Protecting your smile starts with a visit to our dentist in Naperville, IL. So, give Thomas F. Brown, DDS a ring at (630) 369-3120 to explore personalized night guards, customized treatments, and tailored care now!
In today’s blog, Dr. Brown reveals why it might be time to explore a night guard. Let’s get started!
1. You Wake Up with Jaw Pain or Headaches
If your jaw feels tight or sore in the morning, it could be a sign that you’re clenching your teeth in your sleep. This pressure can also cause headaches, especially around your temples.
A night guard helps by creating a soft barrier between your teeth, reducing some of the strain on your jaw muscles.
2. Your Teeth Look Worn Down or Feel Sensitive
Grinding your teeth night after night can slowly wear down the enamel – the tough outer shell of your teeth. This can make your teeth look shorter, feel sensitive, or even develop small cracks.
A night guard acts like a cushion, stopping your teeth from rubbing against each other and preventing damage.
3. Your Partner Says You Grind Your Teeth at Night
Some people don’t know they grind their teeth until a partner or family member hears the sound while they sleep. It can be a loud, unpleasant noise!
If someone has told you that you grind or clench your teeth, a night guard can help stop the grinding and protect your smile.
4. You Have Trouble Sleeping
Teeth grinding can keep your jaw tense and cause discomfort that makes it hard to get a good night’s sleep. It can also increase your risk of other sleep issues, like sleep apnea.
If you wake up feeling exhausted even after a full night in bed, a night guard might help relax your muscles and improve your sleep quality.
5. You Have Unexplained Ear Pain
Jaw clenching puts extra pressure on the jaw joint, which is close to your ears. This can cause pain that feels like an earache, even when there’s no infection.
A night guard helps reduce this pressure and may relieve the discomfort.
6. Your Teeth Are Chipping or Cracking
Grinding puts a lot of force on your teeth, which can lead to chips, cracks, or even broken teeth. This kind of damage can be painful and expensive to fix.
A night guard protects your teeth and keeps them strong.
7. Your Naperville Dentist Recommends One
Sometimes, you may not notice the signs, but our Naperville, IL, dentist will! At your check-up, Dr. Brown might see signs of wear on your teeth or other damage. If Dr. Brown suggests a night guard, it’s a good idea to take his advice.
Time to Protect Your Teeth – Contact Thomas F. Brown, DDS, Today!
If you have any of these signs, a night guard could be the perfect solution to keep your teeth safe and your jaw happy. Talk to our dentist in Naperville, IL, about what’s best for you, and start waking up pain-free!
Would you like to learn more about choosing the right night guard? Contact us online here, or give our Naperville dental office a call at (630) 369-3120 for more information.