Bruxism, or nighttime teeth grinding, affects millions of people, many even without knowing it. According to the Mayo Clinic, bruxism involves clenching or grinding your teeth during sleep and often leads to worn enamel, cracked fillings, jaw discomfort, and morning headaches. As stress, sleep disorders, and remote lifestyles increase, so does the prevalence of this condition.
The good news is that custom-fit night guards are becoming an accessible, dentist-approved solution for managing bruxism and TMJ-related pain. Dental professionals now support these guards for their effectiveness and convenience, especially when sourced through modern at-home providers.
The Real Consequences of Nighttime Grinding
Many people dismiss teeth grinding as harmless, but the long-term consequences prove otherwise. Bruxism contributes to damaged dental work, receding gums, facial pain, migraines, and disrupted sleep.
The University of Adelaide’s Dental Practice Education Research Unit explains: “The use of interocclusal appliances, such as occlusal splints and night guards, is the most common method to reduce the negative effects of bruxism.” These oral appliances provide a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, evenly distributing pressure and preventing structural damage.
Left untreated, bruxism may require costly interventions such as crowns, root canals, or orthodontic retreatment. Preventing damage before it escalates remains the best course of action.
Cheeky: A Trusted At-Home Solution for Custom Night Guards
Cheeky offers dentist-grade night guards at a fraction of the in-office cost. The brand sends customers a free impression kit that lets them take accurate dental impressions at home. Once Cheeky receives the impressions, it manufactures a guard based on the individual’s bite. The final product offers the same level of protection you would expect from a dental clinic.
Here’s why Cheeky stands out:
- Precise Customization: Users mold their impressions at home. Cheeky crafts guards to match exact dental contours, ensuring a snug, thin fit suitable for sleep.
- High-Quality Materials: The guards are BPA- and latex-free. They offer safe, long-term use without exposing users to harmful chemicals.
- Affordable Pricing: Cheeky eliminates dental markups, which often exceed $500 per guard. Their direct-to-consumer model keeps costs low.
- Flexible Protection Options: Customers can choose from soft, hard, or hybrid night guards. Cheeky also offers sports guards and retainers for broader dental care needs.
- Streamlined Delivery: Every order includes a free impression kit, a prepaid shipping label, and a fast turnaround.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: All guards are HSA/FSA eligible and backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Cheeky provides dentist-level care without requiring a clinic visit, making it an accessible option for many patients.
How Night Guards Help Manage Bruxism
Night guards, also known as occlusal splints, reduce the force exerted during grinding and clenching. Dr. Bostani’s Advanced Dental explains: “Nightguards worn while sleeping are one of the easiest and most effective ways to stop bruxism. They work by providing a barrier of protection between the upper and lower arches of teeth.”
The Mayo Clinic confirms this, stating, “Splints and guards can be made of hard plastic or soft materials that fit over your upper or lower teeth. These keep the top and bottom teeth separated and can stop the damage caused by clenching and grinding.”
While over-the-counter guards are available, their bulk and poor fit make them less effective. Ill-fitting guards often lead to discomfort, reduced compliance, and limited protection.
Custom night guards, on the other hand, provide a tailored fit based on the user’s dental impressions. They ensure comfort, durability, and targeted support for the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The American Dental Association emphasizes, “A custom guard, made from a special mold that your dentist creates, will give you the best protection.”
Night Guards vs. Untreated Bruxism
Failing to treat bruxism can lead to serious complications. Prolonged grinding erodes enamel, weakens tooth structure, and increases sensitivity. Over time, teeth may shift, causing alignment issues and TMJ dysfunction.
Chronic bruxism also contributes to morning migraines and facial tension. These symptoms can reduce sleep quality, productivity, and overall well-being. According to Bingham Farms Dental, “A teeth grinding mouth guard is a simple and effective solution that can protect teeth from damage and provide relief from discomfort.”
Patients who use well-fitted guards often report fewer headaches, less jaw pain, and improved sleep within weeks of consistent use. A custom-fit night guard serves as a preventive barrier, reducing long-term dental costs.
What to Consider When Choosing a Night Guard
When selecting a night guard, patients should prioritize fit, material quality, and customization. Cheeky addresses these needs with dentist-approved precision. Unlike generic guards from drugstores, Cheeky guards are molded to the user’s teeth, ensuring a better seal, less slippage, and fewer interruptions during sleep.
The American Dental Association notes that properly molded guards offer superior protection. A custom fit distributes pressure evenly and protects tooth structure and restorations. Users who choose custom-fit guards often experience more comfort and longer-lasting results.
How to Stop Grinding Teeth at Night
While night guards prevent damage, reducing the cause of bruxism also plays an important role. Stress and anxiety often trigger grinding. Practicing relaxation techniques, maintaining regular sleep schedules, and limiting caffeine and alcohol can help. However, these strategies should supplement, not replace, the need for a guard.
If you’re looking for an effective nighttime teeth-grinding solution, Cheeky offers a non-invasive starting point. It addresses both the cause and the consequence of bruxism.
Final Thoughts
Nighttime grinding affects more than just your teeth. It influences your sleep, energy levels, and daily comfort. Recognizing the problem and taking steps to manage it can prevent years of dental issues.
Cheeky delivers a reliable, accessible, and clinically supported way to treat bruxism from home. If you’re looking for an at-home night guard that protects against clenching, relieves TMJ pain, and fits comfortably, Cheeky presents a solution that aligns with medical best practices. As bruxism becomes more common, especially under chronic stress, affordable solutions like Cheeky give patients control over their oral health.
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