A Guide to Daytime Mouth Guards for Teeth Grinding

Many are familiar with nighttime teeth grinding. But did you know that teeth grinding can happen during the day as well? It is known as daytime teeth grinding and if you have such a habit, you’re not alone. Many people do it, often without even realising it, especially when they're stressed or focused.

Teeth grinding and clenching, often occurring during sleep, can lead to significant damage to both the upper and lower teeth. This habit is commonly associated with TMJ disorders and may contribute to further oral health issues, including sleep apnea.

Daytime teeth grinding poses unique challenges that can disrupt daily life and overall well-being. Fortunately, daytime mouth guards have emerged as an effective solution to provide optimal protection against teeth grinding. These oral devices not only help in preventing damage to teeth but can also alleviate the discomfort associated with tension and stress. Let’s dive into what they are, why they’re useful and how to choose the right one for your oral health.

What is daytime teeth grinding?

Daytime teeth grinding, or daytime bruxism, is a condition characterised by involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth while awake. Unlike nighttime bruxism (sleep bruxism or nocturnal bruxism), daytime bruxism is often linked to stress, concentration or certain specific activities. It can lead to a host of dental issues, including jaw pain, facial pain, headaches and tooth wear.

Why do I grind my teeth during the day?

Teeth grinding during the day can happen for several reasons—

1. Stress: When you’re stressed or anxious, you might grind your teeth without even noticing it.
2. Concentration: Sometimes, when you’re really focused on something, like studying or working, you might clench your teeth.
3. Jaw Problems: If your jaw isn’t aligned properly, it might cause you to grind your teeth.
4. High Caffeine Intake: Studies have shown a possible connection between high caffeine consumption and teeth grinding, indicating that caffeine may affect the neuromuscular control of the jaw muscles.

What are the benefits of using a daytime mouth guard?

A daytime mouth guard is a special type of dental appliance that you wear over your teeth to protect them from the effects of grinding. They are typically worn on the upper teeth. Unlike night guards, which are made to be worn while you sleep, daytime guards for teeth grinding are designed to be comfortable enough for daytime use.

A bite guard, designed to fit snugly based on a dental impression, is an effective solution to prevent teeth from wearing down. Using a daytime mouth guard has several benefits.

Protects Your Teeth

It helps shield your teeth from the damage caused by grinding and clenching, preventing wear and tear.

Reduces Jaw Pain

By preventing grinding, these types of mouth guards can help ease discomfort and pain in your jaw muscles.

Relief from Headaches

Alleviates associated headaches and facial pain.

Improves Comfort

A well-fitted mouth guard can make it more comfortable to go about your day without worrying about damaging your teeth.

Daytime versus Nighttime Bruxism

Interested in finding out about custom night guards for nighttime teeth grinding? Click here to read our article on it!

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• What is the purpose of a mouth guard: Why It Matters
• Finding Relief: The ultimate mouth guard for jaw pain

How do I choose the right mouth guard for daytime grinding?

When picking a daytime mouth guard, there are a few things to consider.

1) Comfort

Since you’ll be wearing it during the day, make sure it fits comfortably and doesn’t feel too bulky. Some types of mouth guards are thinner and designed specifically for daytime clenching and teeth grinding.

2) Fit

A good mouth guard should fit snugly over your upper teeth without being too tight. Properly fitted bite guards help alleviate pressure on the jaw and protect against further damage caused by grinding. This ensures that it stays in place and doesn’t interfere with your speaking or daily activities. 

3) Material

Day guards are often made from softer but durable materials compared to night guards. To maintain its shape, avoid soaking the bite guard in hot water, as it may warp.

4) Custom vs Over-the-Counter Options

You can get a custom mouth guard made by a dentist, which will be tailored to fit your mouth perfectly. There are also over-the-counter mouth guards that are pre-formed and adjustable. Custom guards offer the best fit and maximum protection but they come at a higher cost. Over-the-counter guards are more affordable but might not fit as well. Find out more about the differences between custom vs over-the-counter mouth guards here.

At Dental Designs, we provide several types of custom fit mouth guards for teeth grinding, depending on the level of intensity. We use high-quality material to fabricate the mouth guards. We also have an in-house lab right here in our dental office, which allows for faster turnaround times (some types can be fabricated on the same day!), quality control and maximum protection. Check out our mouth guards here!

How to get the most out of your daytime mouth guard?

Here are some tips to make sure you get the best results from your mouth guard.

1. Wear It Consistently: Make it a habit to wear your mouth guard during times when you’re most likely to grind your teeth. This might be during work, study sessions, or stressful situations.
2. Keep It Clean: Regularly clean your mouth guard with mild soap and water to keep it free from bacteria and odors.
3. Replace It When Needed: Mouth guards can wear out over time. If you notice that it’s not fitting as well or is showing signs of wear, it’s time for a replacement.

What are the other ways to manage daytime teeth grinding?

Daytime bruxism, the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth during the day, can lead to various dental health issues if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several methods to address this concern, besides the use of a mouth guard. One of the ways is to effectively manage stress since stress is often a key contributor to teeth grinding. Here are a few techniques:

• Relaxation Strategies: Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation can promote relaxation and reduce overall stress levels.
• Time Management: Learning to manage one's schedule and tasks can alleviate the stress that contributes to bruxism.
• Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is an excellent way to relieve stress and tension that may lead to clenching and grinding.
• Counseling: Therapists or counselors can help individuals address stressors in their lives.
• Botox for teeth grinding: Botox has been used as a safe and effective way to treat severe teeth grinding. It works by reducing muscle movement in the jaw, which helps alleviate the grinding. Drop us a message here to find out more about Botox with Dental Designs Clinic.

By understanding all the available treatment options for daytime bruxism, individuals can take a multifaceted approach to manage their condition effectively. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most effective course of action.

Conclusion

Day guards are a helpful tool for anyone who grinds their teeth during the day. They protect your teeth from damage, reduce jaw pain and help you stay comfortable. Whether you choose a custom mouth guard or an over-the-counter option, the key is to find one that fits well and suits your needs.

If you’re unsure which type is best for you, talking to your healthcare provider or dentist can help you make the right choice. Protecting your smile is important, so consider giving a day guard a try—it might be just what you need for a healthier, more comfortable day!

Ready to book an dental appointment with us for your mouth guard? Simply drop us a message here and we will be right with you!

References

1. Srivastava, R., Tangade, P., Priyadarshi, S., Agarahari, P., & Kumari, T. (2023). The brewed connection: A comprehensive review of the relationship between caffeine and oral health. International Journal of Dental Research, 5(2), 68-74.
2. Tan, E. K., & Jankovic, J. (2000). Treating severe bruxism with botulinum toxin. The Journal of the American Dental Association, 131(2), 211-216.