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Addressing Teeth Grinding: The Importance of Night Guards

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

 I recently discovered that a dental concern needing immediate attention is my teeth grinding. Unaware of this habit because I've always had my own room until I shared one during travel, my friend's discomfort in sleeping beside me brought it to my attention. Initially feeling there's no solution to this, assuming stress and anxiety were the main causes, I eventually visited my dental clinic and learned about the significant impact of teeth grinding (and why I shouldn't just ignore it).


Visited Affinity Dental Clinic in One Bonifacio High Street Mall for my night guard:

The beautiful interiors of my dental clinic in BGC



Understanding Night Guards

A night guard, a dental appliance worn during sleep, plays a crucial role in protecting teeth and jaws from the effects of grinding or clenching, a condition known as bruxism. These guards are typically made of durable plastic material and custom-fitted by a dentist. Acting as a cushion between upper and lower teeth, they prevent grinding and distribute clenching forces evenly.  

Other terms for night guards include mouth guards and sleep guards.




Causes of Teeth Grinding  

Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can trigger bruxism as a subconscious response. 

Misaligned Teeth: Irregularities in teeth alignment, or malocclusion, can contribute to grinding. 

Sleep Disorders: Bruxism is associated with sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, potentially a response to breathing difficulties during sleep. 

Lifestyle Factors: Habits like excessive caffeine intake, alcohol consumption, smoking, or drug use can increase the likelihood of bruxism.


Effects of Teeth Grinding  

Teeth grinding can lead to various dental issues, including:

Tooth Wear: Gradual enamel wear increases sensitivity, cavities risk, and potential fractures. 

Jaw Pain: Repetitive grinding strains jaw muscles, causing discomfort, pain, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. 

Headaches: Tension headaches, especially around temples or behind the eyes, result from jaw muscle strain. 

TMJ Disorders: Dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint can cause clicking, popping, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth. 

Disrupted Sleep: Bruxism can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and decreased sleep quality for both the individual and their sleep partner. 


Recommendation: Obtaining a Night Guard

If you suspect that you are grinding your teeth, it's essential to consult with a dentist. They can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options. 

In my case, I went to Affinity Dental Clinic for a custom-fitted night guard. My dentist took impressions of my teeth to create a night guard tailored to my mouth, ensuring optimal comfort and protection. A few hours later, I got a message on the same day that my night guard was ready for pick-up.



By understanding the importance of addressing teeth grinding and utilizing solutions like night guards, individuals can prevent dental issues and alleviate associated symptoms effectively. I have been using it for a few days now, and will highly recommend it!


Details and Rates

Affinity Dental Clinics BGC High Street

Address: 4F, One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, 1634 Taguig

For Inquiries and Appointments, Call or Send a Viber to: 0917-711-1492

Email: bhs@affinitydentalclinics.com

Night Guard Price - Php 8000  


Thank you to my dentists Dr. Shy Nuñez and Dr. Rhew Tae Jun of Affinity Dental Clinic for taking care of my teeth!



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