Many people don’t realize they grind their teeth—until the damage has already started. At Moonstone Dental, we see patients every week who experience jaw pain, headaches, worn-down teeth, and unexplained tooth sensitivity. Often, the root cause is something they didn’t even know they were doing: nighttime grinding, also known as bruxism.

Teeth grinding is extremely common and can affect both children and adults. In many cases, it happens while you sleep, which means it can go unnoticed for months or even years. You might not hear or feel it happening, but signs like a sore jaw in the morning, tight facial muscles, or sudden wear on your teeth are important warning signs.

If left untreated, bruxism can lead to serious dental issues—such as cracked teeth, gum recession, enamel erosion, and TMJ dysfunction. That’s why it’s so important to catch it early and take preventive steps to protect your smile.

At Moonstone Dental, we take a personalized approach to diagnosing and treating bruxism. During your visit, we’ll examine your teeth, jaw alignment, bite, and symptoms to determine if teeth grinding is occurring. If so, we’ll work with you to create a plan that fits your needs.

One of the most effective solutions we offer is a custom nightguard. These are different from over-the-counter mouthguards you’ll find at a pharmacy. Our nightguards are custom-molded to fit your bite exactly, offering maximum comfort and protection while you sleep. They help reduce the pressure placed on your jaw and teeth, preventing further damage and relieving tension.

In addition to nightguards, we also explore underlying causes of grinding, including stress, sleep position, or bite alignment issues. If needed, we may recommend jaw relaxation exercises, posture adjustments, or collaborating with your physician if it’s part of a broader sleep concern.

Our goal is not just to treat the symptoms, but to stop the cycle and protect your long-term oral health. Every case is different, and that’s why our team takes the time to explain your options and find a solution that works for you.

If you’ve been waking up with a sore jaw, noticing unusual wear on your teeth, or simply want peace of mind, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. At Moonstone Dental, we’re here to help you rest easier and smile brighter—without the grind.

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