Do you often wake up with a sore jaw, a dull headache or sensitive teeth? You may be grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep, a condition called bruxism. Many people don’t realise they do it until a partner hears it or their dentist spots the wear.
Looking for a custom night guard Ormeau patients can get fitted close to home? At Ormeau City Dental Centre, our dentists make custom-fitted nightguards to help protect your teeth from grinding. This guide explains what bruxism does, how a nightguard helps and how to look after one.
What Is Bruxism and Why Does It Matter?
Grinding puts a lot of pressure on your teeth, jaw joints and muscles. Healthdirect lists signs such as cracked, chipped or loose teeth, damaged fillings, sore jaw muscles in the morning, headaches and sensitive teeth. Over time, grinding can lead to:
- Worn enamel: leading to sensitivity and a higher risk of decay.
- Chipped or cracked teeth: which may need crowns or other repairs.
- Jaw problems: clicking, stiffness or pain in the jaw joint (TMJ).
- Disturbed sleep: for you and sometimes your partner.
How a Night Guard Helps
A nightguard, also called an occlusal splint, is a thin, durable appliance worn over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. Healthdirect notes that a custom-made splint can help protect your teeth.
- Creates a barrier: it stops your upper and lower teeth grinding directly against each other.
- Spreads the pressure: it helps reduce strain on your teeth and jaw.
- Protects dental work: it helps shield fillings, crowns and veneers from grinding forces.
Custom Night Guard Ormeau vs Over-the-Counter Guards
Over-the-counter guards
- Often bulky, as they are made to fit many mouths.
- Can fit poorly, which may make them uncomfortable to wear all night.
- Usually made from softer materials that wear through faster.
Custom nightguards from our clinic
- Made for your mouth: we take an impression or scan of your teeth so the guard fits closely and comfortably.
- Durable materials: hard acrylic or dual-laminate materials suited to grinding.
- Checked for fit: we make sure the guard sits well with your bite and doesn’t irritate your gums.
Caring for Your Nightguard
- Rinse it each morning in cool water to remove saliva and plaque.
- Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap rather than abrasive toothpaste.
- Let it dry fully before storing it in its ventilated case.
- Clean it weekly with a denture or retainer cleaning tablet.
- Bring it to your check-up so we can check the fit and wear.
Night Guard FAQs
How do I know if I grind my teeth?
Common signs include a sore jaw or headache in the morning, sensitive or worn teeth, chipped teeth or damaged fillings. A partner may also hear grinding at night. Your dentist can check for wear.
Is a nightguard the same as a sports mouthguard?
No. A nightguard is a thinner splint designed for grinding while you sleep. A sports mouthguard is thicker and designed to protect against impact.
How long does a nightguard last?
It depends on how heavily you grind and how you care for it. Bring it to your check-ups so we can check for wear.
Will a nightguard stop me grinding?
A nightguard protects your teeth from grinding but may not stop the habit itself. Your dentist can talk with you about other factors, such as stress.
Can I claim a nightguard on my health fund?
Many extras policies include cover for nightguards. We offer on-the-spot claims through HICAPS so you can check on the day.
Book a Nightguard Consultation in Ormeau
If you think you’re grinding your teeth, call (07) 5611 8688 or contact us to book. For sports protection, see our mouthguards page. We’re in Interciti Plaza, 31 Zupp Drive, Ormeau, close to Ormeau Hills and Yatala. Our group also has clinics in Pimpama and Coomera, so see our locations page to find the nearest.
