When Kim first visited our Rockledge, FL dental practice, she was dealing with constant clenching and grinding of her teeth while she slept. This nighttime habit—also known as bruxism—caused morning headaches, jaw discomfort, and noticeable wear on her teeth. Over time, the tension began to affect her sleep quality and daily comfort. Kim wanted to protect her smile, prevent further enamel loss, and feel more at ease throughout the day.
Understanding the Source of the Problem
During Kim’s consultation, Rockledge dental expert Dr. Hilary Prill took the time to evaluate her bite, review her dental history, and discuss her symptoms. Clenching and grinding can be caused by stress, misalignment, or sleep-related issues, and over time, they can weaken the enamel and strain the jaw muscles.
By identifying Kim’s bruxism early, Dr. Prill was able to recommend a proactive solution that would protect her teeth at night while improving comfort and preventing long-term damage.
Custom Night Guard Treatment Plan
To help Kim stop grinding her teeth at night and relieve jaw tension, Dr. Prill designed a custom night guard made to fit her smile precisely. Unlike store-bought guards, a custom appliance ensures optimal comfort, stability, and effectiveness.
Goals of Therapy
This treatment was created with several key goals in mind:
- Protect enamel from continued wear and cracking
- Reduce morning jaw pain and headaches
- Prevent teeth from shifting or moving out of alignment
- Support better, more restful sleep each night
How the Appliance Works
A custom night guard gently separates the upper and lower teeth while redistributing pressure from nighttime clenching. This helps relax jaw muscles and reduces strain on the joints. The result is a calmer, more natural resting position for the jaw—one that protects both comfort and appearance.
Life After Treatment
Since starting treatment, Kim’s daily comfort has dramatically improved. She wakes up without jaw tightness or headaches, and she no longer worries about her teeth shifting or wearing down.
She shares, “What I love most is that my night guard works as both protection and prevention — it stops me from grinding my teeth and keeps them aligned, so I don’t have to worry about enamel damage or ending up back in braces.”
Kim’s story highlights how a simple, personalized solution can make a big difference in oral health and overall well-being.
Helping Rockledge Patients Sleep Easier
At Signature Smile Family Dentistry, our sleep apnea dentist takes a patient-centered approach to care—focusing on prevention, comfort, and long-term results. Whether you experience jaw tension, morning headaches, or worn-down teeth, a custom night guard can help protect your smile and improve your quality of life.
If you’re grinding your teeth or waking up with jaw pain, schedule a consultation today at Signature Smile Family Dentistry in Rockledge, FL. Call (321) 633-4020 to learn how a custom night guard can help you rest easier and smile with confidence.
