If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or notice your teeth seem flatter or more sensitive than before, you may be unknowingly clenching or grinding your teeth at night—a condition known as bruxism. At Fernandez, DMD in Punta Gorda, we offer custom-made nightguards that not only protect your teeth but can also help relieve discomfort, prevent long-term damage, and improve your overall quality of sleep.
A nightguard is a small, comfortable oral appliance that you wear while you sleep. Made from durable materials and crafted to fit your unique bite, it acts as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This cushioning effect helps absorb the pressure of clenching and grinding, which in turn reduces tooth wear, jaw strain, and other issues associated with bruxism. Because each nightguard is custom-made, it feels natural to wear and doesn’t interfere with breathing or sleeping.
Many people who grind or clench their teeth don’t realize they’re doing it until the signs become obvious. One of the most common signs is waking up with frequent headaches, particularly in the morning. These headaches can feel dull or throbbing and often stem from muscle tension built up overnight. Another common symptom is jaw soreness or stiffness, which can make it uncomfortable to open your mouth fully or chew certain foods.
You might also notice visible changes in your teeth, like chipping, flattening, or excessive wear. These changes not only affect the appearance of your smile but can also lead to increased tooth sensitivity over time. If your teeth become more sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks, it could be a sign that the enamel is wearing down due to grinding.
Finally, some people experience clicking or popping sounds when they move their jaw, which could indicate strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) caused by constant pressure from clenching.
If any of these issues sound familiar, a custom nightguard could make a big difference in protecting your smile and reducing discomfort.
While it might be tempting to pick up a nightguard from the store, these over-the-counter versions usually offer a one-size-fits-all solution. They often feel bulky and uncomfortable, making it harder to keep them in place throughout the night. In contrast, a custom nightguard made at Fernandez, DMD is carefully shaped to fit the exact contours of your teeth and bite. This personalized fit means you’re much more likely to wear it consistently, which is key to protecting your teeth effectively.
A custom nightguard also offers better long-term durability. Because it’s made from high-quality materials designed to withstand nightly clenching and grinding, it often lasts longer than generic options. Additionally, the precise fit helps ensure your teeth don’t shift or your bite doesn’t change over time, issues that can sometimes arise with poorly fitting store-bought guards.
Getting a custom nightguard is simple and straightforward. It starts with a consultation where we talk about any symptoms you’re experiencing, such as jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity. During this visit, we’ll also examine your teeth and jaw to look for signs of grinding or clenching.
Next, we’ll take detailed impressions of your teeth. These impressions act as a blueprint, allowing a dental lab to craft a nightguard that fits your bite perfectly. Once your nightguard is ready, you’ll come back for a fitting appointment. At this visit, we check how the nightguard sits on your teeth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it feels comfortable and secure.
Before you leave, we’ll walk you through how to care for your nightguard, including cleaning tips and storage recommendations, to help it last as long as possible.
A nightguard’s benefits extend well beyond simply stopping your teeth from grinding against each other. Many patients notice they wake up with fewer headaches and less facial pain because the nightguard reduces the tension in their jaw muscles overnight. Some people even find they sleep better overall, as they’re not unconsciously clenching throughout the night.
By preventing the wear and tear caused by bruxism, a nightguard also helps preserve your natural teeth and protect any dental work you may have, like crowns or fillings. Over time, this can save you from needing more extensive dental treatments in the future. Additionally, many people feel relief from jaw tension and stiffness, making it easier to chew, speak, and smile comfortably during the day.
If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth at night, or if you’ve already noticed signs like headaches, jaw soreness, or worn-down teeth, now is the perfect time to take action. At Fernandez, DMD, we create custom nightguards that are comfortable, durable, and effective at protecting your smile.
We are conveniently located at:
502 E. Olympia Ave.
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Or call us at 941-639-1124.
We look forward to helping you sleep better, feel better, and protect your healthy smile.
