By Dr. Richa Bhatnagar | Jacksonport Dental, Calgary
Have you ever woken up with a sore jaw, headaches, or sensitive teeth? You might be experiencing nighttime teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Many Calgarians aren’t even aware they grind their teeth until a family member hears it at night or until their dentist points out the early signs.
The good news? A simple, custom-made bite guard could be the solution you’ve been searching for to protect your teeth and improve your sleep quality.
What is Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)?
Teeth grinding is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, usually during sleep. It often goes unnoticed until the symptoms start to show. Over time, bruxism can wear down your teeth, cause jaw pain, and even damage dental restorations like fillings and crowns.
Common signs include:
- Morning headaches
- Sore or tight jaw muscles
- Worn-down, chipped, or flattened teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Interrupted sleep
At Jacksonport Dental, we see many patients from Cityscape, Skyview, Taradale, and other NE Calgary communities who didn’t realize the long-term impact of untreated teeth grinding until their teeth started showing visible damage.
Why Do People Grind Their Teeth at Night?
Several factors can contribute to nighttime grinding:
- Stress and anxiety – High-stress lifestyles often manifest physically, including jaw clenching at night.
- Sleep disorders – Conditions like sleep apnea are linked with bruxism.
- Bite misalignment – When your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly.
- Lifestyle factors – Caffeine, alcohol, or smoking may increase grinding risks.
The Role of Bite Guards in Protecting Your Smile
A bite guard (also called a night guard or dental guard) is a custom-fitted device that you wear over your teeth at night. Unlike over-the-counter options, a professionally made bite guard in Calgary is tailored to fit your mouth comfortably and provide the best protection.
How Bite Guards Help:
- Protect Your Teeth – Prevent enamel wear, chips, and cracks.
- Relieve Jaw Pain – Reduce pressure on your temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
- Prevent Headaches – Minimize morning tension headaches caused by clenching.
- Improve Sleep – Reduce nighttime disruptions caused by grinding noises.
- Save on Future Costs – Avoid expensive procedures like crowns, veneers, or implants.
One of our patients from Redstone recently shared how their bite guard not only eased jaw pain but also helped them finally enjoy a full night’s sleep without waking up sore.
Bite Guard Calgary: Why Choose Jacksonport Dental?
At Jacksonport Dental, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every bite guard is custom-made using precise dental impressions and durable materials, ensuring maximum comfort and long-lasting results.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Personalized care by Dr. Richa Bhatnagar
- High-quality materials for durability and comfort
- Affordable solutions – we help protect your smile while keeping costs reasonable
- Convenient NE Calgary location serving Cityscape, Cornerstone, Savanna, and surrounding neighborhoods
Teeth Grinding Fix: What You Can Do at Home
While a bite guard is the most effective way to manage bruxism, you can also try:
- Reducing caffeine and alcohol before bedtime
- Practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation
- Maintaining a regular sleep routine
- Avoiding chewing gum or non-food items during the day
Final Thoughts
Nighttime teeth grinding may seem harmless at first, but it can have serious long-term effects on your dental health. The right bite guard in Calgary can act as a protective shield, giving you relief from pain, preventing tooth damage, and ultimately saving you from costly dental treatments.
If you’ve noticed signs of grinding—or if a loved one has mentioned it—don’t wait until the damage is done.
👉 Book a consultation with Dr. Richa Bhatnagar at Jacksonport Dental today and discover how a custom bite guard can help you protect your smile.
