What Is Bruxism and Why Should It Be Taken Seriously?
Bruxism is the unconscious habit of clenching or grinding the teeth, most commonly during sleep. Many patients only become aware of this condition when they begin to experience symptoms such as tooth sensitivity in the morning, jaw soreness upon waking, or visible changes in tooth shape that appear shorter.
Teeth grinding is often associated with stress, sleep disorders, imbalances in the relationship between the teeth and jaw, or certain habitual factors. Although frequently considered minor, repeated pressure caused by bruxism can lead to various problems, ranging from fine tooth cracks and enamel wear to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. This is why bruxism should be managed properly and not left untreated.
Signs of Bruxism You Should Not Ignore
Not everyone realizes they are experiencing bruxism. The following signs often serve as early indicators that the teeth and jaw are under excessive pressure:
Teeth that appear worn down or shorter
Cracked teeth or unexplained tooth sensitivity
Pain in the jaw, temples, or facial muscles
Headaches or jaw stiffness upon waking
Clicking sounds or discomfort in the jaw joint (TMJ)
If you frequently experience morning tooth sensitivity or jaw soreness, using a night guard while sleeping can be an important preventive step.
How Does a Night Guard Protect the Teeth and Jaw?
A night guard works as a cushion that separates the upper and lower teeth during sleep. With this mechanism, pressure from teeth grinding does not directly affect the tooth surfaces or the jaw joints.
The benefits of a night guard include:
Made according to the shape of your teeth, ensuring a more precise and comfortable fit
Does not interfere with breathing or sleep quality
Materials adjusted to match the level of biting pressure
More durable and effective in protecting the teeth
Although a night guard does not completely stop bruxism, it plays a vital role in preventing long-term damage to the teeth and jaw.
Custom Night Guards vs. Over-the-Counter Products
Sleep mouth guards are available in various forms on the market. However, custom night guards made by a dentist offer significant advantages over ready-made products.
Custom night guards are designed according to the patient’s tooth anatomy and bite pattern, making them:
More precise and comfortable to wear throughout the night
Unlikely to interfere with breathing or sleep quality
Made with materials tailored to each individual’s bite strength
More effective and longer-lasting in providing protection
In contrast, over-the-counter guards are often unstable, too thick, or ill-fitting, which limits their effectiveness in protecting the teeth and jaw.
The Night Guard Process at Onyx Dental Center
At Onyx Dental Center, night guards are made with a personalized and precise approach. The process includes:
Examination of the teeth, bite, and jaw joints
Digital intraoral scanning to obtain accurate impressions without discomfort
Selection of night guard materials based on your specific needs
Final adjustments to ensure comfort during sleep
This approach ensures that the night guard not only protects the teeth but also supports jaw health and improves sleep quality.
Conclusion
Bruxism is a condition that often goes unnoticed, yet its effects on the teeth and jaw joints can be progressive. Symptoms such as teeth grinding, cracked teeth, and TMJ pain should not be considered normal.
Using a custom night guard is an effective preventive solution to protect the teeth, maintain proper jaw function, and improve sleeping comfort. With accurate diagnosis and personalized planning, the long-term risks associated with bruxism can be minimized.
Learn more about Onyx Dental Center Treatments:
Proper consultation is always the first step toward determining the most suitable solution for your individual needs.
References
Dalalishvili, S., Margvelashvili, V., & Nikolaishvili, M. (2025). Bruxism: Implications for human health and well-being. Journal of Biosciences and Medicines, 13, 78–94. https://doi.org/10.4236/jbm.2025.13200
Pavlou, I. A., Spandidos, D. A., Zoumpourlis, V., & Papakosta, V. K. (2024). Neurobiology of bruxism: The impact of stress (Review). Biomedical Reports, 20, 59.https://doi.org/10.3892/br.2024.1747
