A nightguard is a protective cover for your teeth to prevent damage during grinding at nights.  It also helps retrain muscles to help prevent grinding by breaking the habit.

Nighttime grinding is a subconscious habit that is usually the result of stress or nervous tension.  Some people know they grind but can't help it.  Some people don't know they grind, but the destruction on the teeth, muscles, and TMJ (jaw joint) can be devastating.

Nightguards are custom made to fit your teeth and are meant to be used while you sleep.  Until the grinding habit is broken, a nightguard will help absorb and distribute the forces of grinding evenly to protect your teeth.  They also help make it easier to slide your jaws and teeth during grinding which helps ease strain on the TMJ.

Nightguards are usually made of hard acrylic or other hard plastics so that they can provide a smooth surface for your teeth to slide against.

People who grind often feel stiffness in their jaw muscles and sometimes even have difficulty opening their mouth wide.  They often wake up with their jaw muscles feeling tired in the morning.  Grinding can also make teeth sensitive to cold drinks.

Grinding is a VERY common medical condition called bruxism.  Clenching without grinding is also very common and can be just as harmful.  People with nighttime grinding habits usually wear away their tooth enamel "ten times faster" than those without "abusive chewing habits."  Eventually, their teeth may be worn down and destroyed beyond repair.

Treating bruxism and clenching is very cost effective compared to not treating the problem.  The alternative is to replace or repair the bruxer's damaged or destroyed teeth with either fixed crowns, fixed bridges, or removable dentures.  Also, leaving bruxism untreated often leads to permanent TMJ disorders or damage that might even require surgery for repair.  In most cases a nightguard can help break the habit while protecting your teeth and jaw.  In some other cases, a nightguard can provide immense temporary relief from grinding, bruxing, or clenching.

What is a Mouthguard?

Unlike nightguards, mouthguards are thick, soft, rubber-like bumpers that help absorb impact and prevent injury to teeth during sports.