March 9, 2026

Grinding your teeth at night can wear down your enamel and cause a lot of jaw pain. Many people don’t even know they are doing it until they wake up with a headache or a sore face.

Seeing a dentist in Winnipeg is a great first step to protect your smile from the damage of grinding.

A mouthguard works like a shield, sitting between your top and bottom teeth to soak up the pressure. Picking the right one is very important because a guard that doesn’t fit well can actually make your jaw feel worse.

By learning about your options, you can get a better night’s sleep and keep your teeth strong.

What are the Types of Mouthguards for Teeth Grinding

When you look for protection, you will find a few different choices. Some you can buy at a store, and others are made specifically for you by a professional.

  • Stock Guards: These come ready-to-wear, but can feel very bulky and make it hard to breathe.
  • Boil-and-Bite: You soften these in hot water and then bite down to shape them to your teeth for a better fit.
  • Custom Guards: These are made from a mold of your mouth to be as thin and comfortable as possible.

Finding the Right Support Nearby

It is much easier to take care of your teeth when you can find mouthguards near you for a proper fitting. A custom guard needs a visit to a clinic to make sure your bite is lined up correctly.

If a guard is too thick in one spot, it can hurt your jaw joint. Having a local dentist means you can go in for a quick fix if the guard feels too tight or uncomfortable after the first few nights.

Comparing Your Choices

Feature Store-Bought Guard Custom Dental Guard
How it Fits Loose or bulky Fits your teeth perfectly
How Long it Lasts 3 to 6 months 2 to 5 years
Comfort Can be hard to sleep in Very slim and stays in place
Protection Basic cushioning Best pressure relief

What are the Fitting and Comfort Tips To Follow

When it comes to fitting and comfort tips, the most important thing is that the guard stays in place without you having to bite down on it. It should feel snug but not press too hard against your gums.

To get used to a new guard, try wearing it for 15 minutes before bed while you read or watch TV. This helps your mouth get used to the feeling so you can fall asleep more easily.

Signs You Might Be Grinding

You might need a guard if you notice certain pains in the morning. Many people find out because their teeth start looking flat or chipped. You might also feel like your jaw is “locked” or tight when you first wake up.

Sometimes, grinding can even feel like a dull earache. If your teeth are extra sensitive to cold water, it could be a sign that the outer layer is wearing thin from grinding at night.

How to Clean Your Guard

Once you have a guard, you must keep it clean so germs don’t grow on it. Every morning, rinse it with cool water and give it a quick scrub with a soft toothbrush.

Never use hot water, as it can melt the plastic and ruin the fit. Store it in a case that has holes for air to get in.

Brushing your teeth before you put the guard in at night also helps keep the guard fresh and prevents cavities.

The Benefits of Protection

Wearing a mouthguard is a simple way to save a lot of money on dental repairs.

It stops your teeth from cracking, which means you won’t need expensive fixes like crowns or implants later. Most importantly, it helps your jaw muscles relax.

When your muscles aren’t clenching all night, you wake up with fewer headaches and feel more rested. It is a small change that makes a big difference in how you feel every day.

A Better Night’s Rest for Your Smile

Picking the right protection is a great way to keep your smile healthy and pain-free. Whether you choose a simple store option or a professional fit, taking action now stops damage before it gets worse.

A healthy mouth starts with good habits, and a mouthguard is one of the best tools for the job. We want to help you find a fit that lets you sleep peacefully and wake up feeling great.

At Polo Park Dental, our team is ready to help you protect your teeth and give you the best care possible.

Are you tired of waking up with a sore jaw or headaches? Contact Polo Park Dental today to book your visit and find the perfect mouthguard for your smile!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get used to wearing one?

Most people need about a week or two to feel totally comfortable, but soon you won’t even notice it’s in your mouth.

Can I use my sports guard for grinding?

No, sports guards are too thick and are made to stop hits to the face, while night guards are made specifically for grinding.

Do I need to wear it every single night?

Yes, grinding usually happens every night, so wearing it consistently is the only way to prevent permanent damage to your enamel.

What if I have braces or a bridge?

Your dentist can make a special guard that fits over your dental work to keep everything safe while you sleep.