Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or a sore neck? Do you find yourself unconsciously clenching or grinding your teeth throughout the day? If so, you might benefit from wearing a mouth guard at night.
A mouth guard is a custom-made appliance that fits over your teeth and protects them from damage caused by grinding and clenching. Grinding and clenching, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that affects millions of people. It can lead to a variety of problems, including:
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Worn-down teeth: Bruxism can wear down the enamel on your teeth, which makes them more susceptible to cavities and chips.
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Jaw pain: The constant grinding and clenching can put stress on your jaw muscles, leading to pain and stiffness.
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Headaches: Bruxism can also trigger headaches, especially tension headaches.
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Earaches: In some cases, bruxism can even cause earaches.
Warning Signs You Need a Mouth Guard
Not everyone who grinds or clenches their teeth needs a mouth guard. However, there are some signs that may indicate that you would benefit from one. These signs include:
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Waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or a sore neck
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Finding yourself unconsciously clenching or grinding your teeth throughout the day
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Seeing signs of wear on your teeth, such as flattening or chipping
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Having loose teeth
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Experiencing clicking or popping sounds in your jaw
How a Mouth Guard Can Help
If you experience any of these signs, it's important to see your dentist to discuss whether a mouth guard is right for you. A mouth guard can help to:
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Protect your teeth from wear and tear
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Reduce jaw pain
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Prevent headaches
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Minimize earaches
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Improve your oral health overall
Conclusion
If you suspect you might be grinding or clenching your teeth at night, don't hesitate to talk to your dentist. A mouth guard could be the solution you need to protect your teeth and improve your overall oral health and well-being. Additionally, regular checkups with your dentist can help to identify and address any potential issues early on, which can help to prevent more serious problems down the road.
By taking steps to address bruxism and maintain good oral hygiene, you can keep your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Dentist Kenmore, WA • About Cooley Smiles Kenmore For more than 35 years, Cooley Smiles Everett has been providing a full array of cosmetic, holistic, family, and sleep apnea dentistry services. Call today! Cooley Smiles, 18031 67th Avenue NE, Kenmore, WA 98028-4839 • (425) 216-3367 • cooleysmileskenmore.com • 11/10/2025 • Associated Words: About Us, Cooley Smiles Kenmore, Family Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Kenmore WA
Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or a sore neck? Do you find yourself unconsciously clenching or grinding your teeth throughout the day? If so, you might benefit from wearing a mouth guard at night.
