October 6, 2026 · Dr. Safina LeClair
Halloween is the season of things that go bump in the night. In my chair, it is often things that go grind in the night. Many people who grind their teeth have no idea they are doing it. They come in for a routine visit, and I notice flattened edges, small chips, or gum recession that tells me their teeth have been working the night shift. The good news: grinding is common, and protecting your teeth is much less scary than it sounds.
Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) often happen during sleep and can cause worn or chipped teeth, sensitivity, jaw soreness, and morning headaches. A custom night guard from your dentist can help protect teeth from wear and damage. Because grinding can be linked to stress, bite issues, or sleep problems, I look at the whole picture before recommending treatment.
Some people wake up with a sore jaw or tight facial muscles and no idea why — like a mystery with no culprit. Others get dull headaches near the temples or teeth that feel sensitive for no clear reason. Sometimes the first witness is a partner who hears grinding at night and is not thrilled about the soundtrack. During an exam, I look for the evidence: flattened or shiny wear spots, small chips, cracks, worn fillings, and notches near the gumline. These clues often show up before you feel any pain.
Stress is a common trigger — and between work, kids, and the holiday calendar creeping up, there is plenty of it to go around this time of year. Grinding can also be related to how your teeth fit together, certain medications, caffeine or alcohol, and sleep problems. For some people, grinding is linked to sleep-disordered breathing such as sleep apnea. If I see signs that point that way, I may suggest talking with your physician as well.
Think of a night guard as a costume your teeth wear to bed — the protective kind. It is a thin, comfortable appliance that sits between your upper and lower teeth so the guard takes the wear instead of your enamel, fillings, or crowns. Custom guards are made from a precise model of your teeth, so they fit snugly and stay put all night, no matter how dramatic your dreams get.
Boil-and-bite guards are a bit like a one-size-fits-all costume: they technically work, but they are often bulky, loose, or uneven. A poor fit can make them uncomfortable to wear, and some people find they clench even more. A custom guard is designed around your bite, which usually makes it more comfortable and more likely to actually get worn every night.
If grinding has caused chips, cracks, or heavy wear, I will talk with you about options to restore those teeth, such as bonding, fillings, or porcelain crowns. Protecting your teeth with a night guard afterward helps those restorations last longer.
Ranunculus Dental is at 2630 El Camino Real in Carlsbad, CA 92008. We welcome neighbors from Carlsbad and North County San Diego — including Escondido, Oceanside, Encinitas, Vista, and San Marcos — who want thoughtful, comprehensive dental care close to home.
A night guard mainly protects your teeth. It may reduce strain for some people, but it does not always stop the habit itself. Addressing stress, sleep, or bite issues can also help.
It depends on how heavily you grind. Many guards last several years with good care. I check yours at regular visits and let you know when it needs replacing.
Yes, grinding is fairly common in children and is often outgrown. For kids ages 7 and up, I keep an eye on it during checkups and let parents know if anything needs attention.
Rinse it after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and cool water, and store it dry in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp it — and keep it away from the dog, who will absolutely think it is a chew toy.
Call (760) 434-1761 or use online scheduling. I will check for signs of grinding during your exam and recommend what fits your situation.
Individual results vary. This information is general in nature and not a substitute for a professional diagnosis or treatment plan.