Protect Your Smile from Nighttime Damage With Help From Dr. Kevin H. Gropp
Do you wake up with jaw pain, sore teeth, or frequent headaches? These might be more than just a rough night’s sleep—they could be signs of teeth grinding or clenching, a condition known as bruxism. Fortunately, a custom night guard from Dr. Kevin H. Gropp in Northridge, CA, can help protect your teeth and relieve discomfort.
At Kevin H. Gropp, DDS, we help patients identify the symptoms of bruxism early to avoid long-term damage. A night guard is a simple, non-invasive solution that can dramatically improve comfort and prevent serious dental complications down the road.
If you’re noticing signs of bruxism, don’t wait. Call our Northridge, CA, dentist at (818) 709-8645 to schedule an evaluation. We proudly serve patients in Chatsworth, Granada Hills, Lake Balboa, and surrounding areas.
What Is a Night Guard? Our Dentist Near Chatsworth Explains
A night guard, also known as an occlusal mouth guard or bite splint, is a custom-made oral appliance worn while sleeping. It acts as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to reduce the pressure of grinding and clenching. Night guards are often recommended for patients experiencing symptoms of sleep bruxism or TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder).
Common Signs You Might Need a Night Guard
Many people grind or clench their teeth at night without realizing it. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consider getting a night guard from our dentist near you:
1. Jaw Pain or Tightness
One of the most common signs of nighttime teeth grinding is waking up with a sore or tight jaw. Over time, the constant tension can lead to TMJ dysfunction or chronic facial pain.
Why It Matters: Night guards help relax the jaw muscles and reduce strain on the temporomandibular joint, preventing long-term discomfort.
2. Frequent Headaches or Earaches
Morning headaches, especially around the temples, can be a result of clenching your teeth while you sleep. Some people may also experience unexplained earaches or a sensation of fullness in the ears.
Why It Matters: Night guards can minimize muscle tension and protect against the nerve compression that causes these symptoms.
3. Worn, Flattened, or Chipped Teeth
Grinding slowly wears away enamel and can cause small chips, cracks, or even tooth fractures. You might also notice your teeth looking shorter or more sensitive.
Why It Matters: A custom night guard acts as a cushion, preserving tooth structure and preventing damage.
4. Tooth Sensitivity
When enamel wears down or dentin becomes exposed due to grinding, you may feel a sharp zing when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods.
Why It Matters: Preventing further wear is key to avoiding root canal treatment or restorations in the future.
5. Interrupted Sleep or Waking Up Tired
Even if you don’t consciously wake up, grinding can disrupt sleep patterns, leaving you feeling tired during the day. You might also wake up throughout the night without knowing why.
Why It Matters: Wearing a night guard helps reduce muscular activity so your body can rest more fully.
What Causes Teeth Grinding and Clenching?
There are several reasons people develop severe bruxism, including:
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep disorders, like sleep apnea
- Misaligned teeth or bite issues
- TMJ dysfunction
- Caffeine or alcohol consumption
- Certain medications or neurological conditions
Why It Matters: Identifying the root cause can help Dr. Gropp tailor a treatment plan that goes beyond just symptom relief.
How a Night Guard Can Help
A professionally made night guard from Dr. Gropp is custom-fitted to your bite for optimal comfort and protection. Unlike over-the-counter versions, these guards:
- Fit securely and comfortably
- Don’t interfere with breathing or sleep
- Last longer and provide better protection
- Reduce jaw tension and help with TMJ symptoms
- Protect dental restorations like crowns or veneers
What to Expect When Getting a Night Guard
During your appointment, Dr. Gropp will examine your teeth, discuss your symptoms, and take impressions for a custom night guard. Once ready, you’ll return to our Northridge dental office for a fitting to ensure proper alignment and comfort.
We also offer tips on care and maintenance to extend the life of your night guard and keep it clean.
When to See a Dentist Near Granada Hills for Bruxism
If you’re experiencing any of the signs listed above, it’s important to schedule a dental evaluation. The earlier we detect bruxism, the easier it is to manage and prevent complications like:
- Tooth fractures
- Gum recession
- Chronic jaw pain or TMJ
- Disrupted sleep
- Expensive restorative dental work
Call Dr. Gropp in Northridge for a Custom Night Guard
At Kevin H. Gropp, DDS, we understand how disruptive teeth grinding can be to your health and comfort. Dr. Gropp takes the time to evaluate your TMJ or bruxism symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan to protect your smile.
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with bruxism or suspect it’s the cause of your discomfort, we’re here to help. Call our Northridge dental office at (818) 709-8645 to schedule your night guard consultation. We’re proud to provide expert dental care for patients in Chatsworth, Granada Hills, Lake Balboa, and nearby neighborhoods.
