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Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or sore teeth? Well, you’re not alone! Millions of Americans grind or clench their teeth at night, often without realizing it. This condition, known as bruxism, can lead to worn enamel, fractured teeth, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, all of which affect your quality of life. The good news is that a custom night guard can protect your teeth and help you wake up pain-free. At Lumin8 Dentistry, Dr. Jun Carrington and our team understand how disruptive teeth grinding and jaw clenching can be. As part of our focus on prevention, we offer custom-fitted night guards that cushion your teeth, reduce jaw strain, and help prevent long-term damage. Our Lakewood practice uses advanced digital impressions to create comfortable, durable guards that fit your unique bite perfectly.

What Are Night Guards and How Do They Help?

Night guards are protective oral appliances worn during sleep to prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and jaw clenching. Unlike store-bought options, custom night guards from our Lakewood dental practice are precisely crafted to fit your mouth, providing superior comfort and protection. These devices work by creating a barrier between your upper and lower teeth that absorbs the forces of grinding and clenching. This protection helps prevent enamel wear, tooth fractures, and the development or worsening of TMJ disorders. According to a survey by the American Dental Association, more than 70% of dentists detected signs of teeth grinding and clenching in their patients. After starting a custom night guard routine, many patients notice reduced morning headaches and jaw soreness within the first few weeks of use.

Custom vs. Over-the-Counter

Custom night guards differ significantly from over-the-counter options available at drugstores. While boil-and-bite guards may seem like an economical choice, they often fit poorly and provide inadequate protection. A poorly fitting guard can shift during sleep, fail to protect all your teeth, or even worsen jaw alignment issues. Custom guards made by Dr. Carrington are designed specifically for your bite pattern, ensuring even pressure distribution and maximum comfort throughout the night.

Understanding TMJ Disorders and Bruxism

Temporomandibular joint disorders affect the joints connecting your jawbone to your skull. These joints act like sliding hinges, and when they become stressed or inflamed, you may experience pain, difficulty chewing, and limited jaw movement. Bruxism is one of the leading causes of TMJ problems, as the constant grinding motion puts excessive strain on these delicate joints. Stress and anxiety are common triggers for nighttime teeth grinding, though some people grind their teeth due to sleep disorders, misaligned teeth, or certain medications. Children may also grind their teeth as their jaw develops. Regardless of the cause, the outcome can be damaging if left untreated. Chronic bruxism can wear down tooth enamel to the point where the inner layers of your teeth become exposed, leading to sensitivity and increased risk of decay.

Signs You May Need a Night Guard

Recognizing the symptoms of bruxism or TMJ issues early can help stop more serious dental problems from developing. Watch for these common warning signs:

Waking with jaw pain or stiffness
Frequent morning headaches or migraines
Worn, chipped, or flattened teeth
Increased tooth sensitivity
Popping or clicking noises when moving your mouth
Neck or shoulder pain
Earaches without infection
Difficulty opening your mouth wide
Lockjaw or limited jaw movement

Your partner may also notice grinding sounds during the night. These sounds can be loud enough to disturb their sleep as well. If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Dr. Carrington to discuss whether a night guard could help. During your examination, Dr. Carrington will look for physical signs of grinding, such as unusual wear patterns on your teeth, damage to dental work (such as crowns or fillings), and tenderness in your jaw muscles. He may also ask about your stress levels, sleep habits, and whether you consume caffeine or alcohol before bed, as these factors can contribute to nighttime grinding.

The Custom Night Guard Process at Lumin8 Dentistry

Creating your custom night guard is a straightforward process. During your initial visit, Dr. Carrington will examine your teeth and jaw to check for signs of grinding or TMJ dysfunction. We’ll discuss your symptoms and take digital impressions of your teeth using our advanced intraoral scanner technology. These precise impressions allow our dental lab to manufacture a night guard that fits comfortably and effectively. We’ll ensure proper thickness for protection while maintaining breathability and ease of speaking if needed. The material used for your guard will be durable yet comfortable, designed to withstand the forces of grinding while remaining gentle on your gums. Once your guard arrives, you’ll return for a fitting appointment where we’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal comfort and function. Dr. Carrington will check that the guard fits snugly without being too tight and that it doesn’t interfere with your breathing or cause gagging. We’ll also provide detailed instructions on inserting and removing your guard and answer any questions you may have about wearing it. Most patients adjust to wearing their night guard within a few nights. While it may feel unusual at first, the majority of our patients report that they quickly forget they’re wearing it. The relief from pain and protection for your teeth far outweigh any initial adjustment period.

Find Relief from Bruxism and TMJ at Lumin8 Dentistry in Lakewood, WA

Don’t let teeth grinding and jaw pain disrupt your sleep and daily life. At Lumin8 Dentistry, Dr. Jun Carrington combines years of advanced training from the Kois Center with state-of-the-art technology to provide comfortable, effective night guard solutions. Our team takes the time to understand your specific worries and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. We serve patients throughout Lakewood and the surrounding Pierce County communities with compassionate, personalized care. Our practice works with most major dental insurance plans and offers flexible financing options through Cherry and CareCredit to make your care affordable. We believe everyone deserves a pain-free smile and restful sleep. Take the first step toward better sleep and a healthier smile by contacting us today to schedule your consultation. Dr. Carrington and our caring team look forward to helping you find relief from grinding and TMJ pain.

Ready to start your smile transformation? Contact Lumin8 Dentistry today to schedule your consultation and discover the possibilities of cosmetic dentistry. Your dream smile is just a call away!

(253) 581-6140

Night Guards for TMJ & Bruxism in Lakewood, WA