Do You Need a Night Guard?

May 6, 2025

Do you wake up with a sore jaw, headache, or sensitive teeth? Does your partner hear you grinding your teeth at night? If so, you might be one of the millions who could benefit from a night guard — and at Windsor Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re here to help you protect your smile while you sleep. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what a night guard is, why you might need one, and how it can dramatically improve your oral health and quality of life.

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard, also called an occlusal guard or dental guard, is a custom-made oral appliance you wear over your teeth while sleeping. It creates a soft but strong barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding or clenching against each other. At Windsor Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we design custom-fitted night guards that are comfortable, durable, and tailored just for you — unlike over-the-counter versions that often feel bulky and less effective.

Signs You May Need a Night Guard

Not sure if you need a night guard? Here are some signs to watch for:

Morning headaches or facial pain

Sore or tight jaw muscles

Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth

Tooth sensitivity (especially to cold or pressure)

Clicking or popping in your jaw joint (TMJ issues)

Partner or family noticing grinding or clenching sounds at night

If you recognize any of these symptoms, it’s time to talk with Dr. Sophia Beason-Brown and our team. We can evaluate your bite, check for signs of wear, and recommend the right solution.

Why Do People Grind or Clench?

Bruxism, the medical term for teeth grinding or clenching, can happen for several reasons:

Stress or anxiety

Misaligned bite or crooked teeth

Sleep disorders like sleep apnea

Lifestyle factors (like caffeine or alcohol use)

Left untreated, bruxism can lead to serious dental problems, including cracked teeth, gum recession, bone loss, and even TMJ disorders.

How a Night Guard Can Help

Wearing a night guard offers many benefits, including:

Protecting your teeth from damage

Reducing jaw tension and muscle fatigue

Preventing headaches and facial pain

Improving sleep quality for you (and your partner!)

Preserving dental work like crowns, veneers, or implants

A night guard is a simple but powerful investment in your long-term oral health — and at Windsor Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we make sure it fits perfectly and feels great.

Ready to Protect Your Smile

If you’ve been experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or signs of teeth grinding, now is the perfect time to take action before more serious dental problems develop. At Windsor Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized care that protects your oral health and enhances your overall well-being. Our team, led by Dr. Sophia Beason-Brown, will carefully evaluate your teeth and bite, explain whether a custom night guard is right for you, and design a treatment plan tailored to your needs. With advanced technology, expert care under one roof, and a welcoming environment, we help you prevent damage, improve sleep quality, and feel confident in your smile—so don’t wait to take the next step toward a healthier, more comfortable future. Request an appointment today!