Have you ever woken up in the morning with a sore jaw or a headache? Do you find yourself grinding your teeth at night? If so, you might benefit from wearing a mouth guard.
A mouth guard is a custom-fitted appliance that protects your teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching. Grinding and clenching, also known as bruxism, can wear down your teeth, cause pain, and even lead to jaw problems.
While mouth guards are often associated with sports, they can also be used to treat bruxism. In fact, many dentists recommend mouth guards for people who grind their teeth at night.
How Do Mouth Guards Work?
Mouth guards work by creating a barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This barrier helps to absorb the force of grinding and clenching, protecting your teeth from damage. Mouth guards can also help to reduce the pain associated with bruxism.
There are two main types of mouth guards:
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Over-the-counter mouth guards: These are available at most drugstores and are relatively inexpensive. However, they are not as custom-fitted as prescription mouth guards and may not be as effective.
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Prescription mouth guards: These are made by a dentist and are custom-fitted to your mouth. They are more expensive than over-the-counter mouth guards, but they are more comfortable and effective.
Benefits of Wearing a Mouth Guard
There are many benefits to wearing a mouth guard, including:
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Protecting your teeth from damage: Mouth guards can help to prevent your teeth from being chipped, cracked, or worn down.
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Reducing pain: Mouth guards can help to reduce the pain associated with bruxism.
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Improving your sleep: Mouth guards can help you to sleep more soundly by reducing the noise and discomfort caused by grinding your teeth.
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Protecting your jaw: Mouth guards can help to protect your jaw joint from damage caused by grinding and clenching.
Who Should Wear a Mouth Guard?
If you grind your teeth at night, you should consider wearing a mouth guard. Grinding your teeth can be caused by stress, anxiety, or certain medications. It can also be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, such as sleep apnea.
If you are concerned about grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist. They can help you determine if a mouth guard is right for you.
Taking Care of Your Mouth Guard
It is important to take care of your mouth guard to ensure that it remains effective and comfortable. Here are some tips for taking care of your mouth guard:
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Clean your mouth guard regularly. You should clean your mouth guard with a toothbrush and toothpaste after each use. You can also soak it in a mouthwash solution.
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Store your mouth guard properly. When you are not using your mouth guard, store it in a cool, dry place. Do not store it in direct sunlight or extreme heat.
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Inspect your mouth guard regularly. Check your mouth guard for any signs of wear or tear. If you notice any damage, replace your mouth guard immediately.
Mouth Guards and Your Oral Health
Mouth guards are an important part of oral care. They can help to protect your teeth from damage and improve your sleep. If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a mouth guard.
In addition to wearing a mouth guard, there are other things you can do to protect your teeth and improve your oral health, such as:
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Brushing your teeth twice a day.
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Flossing daily.
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Seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
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Eating a healthy diet.
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Avoiding sugary drinks.
By following these tips, you can keep your mouth healthy and avoid problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
Dentist Bellevue • About Cooley Smiles Bellevue For over 35 years, we've built a reputation for delivering quality general and cosmetic dental services available. Call or schedule an appointment today! Cooley Smiles, 4100 Factoria Blvd SE, Suite C, Bellevue, WA 98006-1262 / (425) 998-6998 / cooleysmiles.com / 11/4/2025 / Related Phrases: dental office, dental office in bellevue wa, dental clinic
Have you ever woken up in the morning with a sore jaw or a headache? Do you find yourself grinding your teeth at night? If so, you might benefit from wearing a mouth guard.
