Do you wake up with a stiff jaw, a dull headache, or teeth that feel sensitive for no obvious reason? You could be grinding or clenching your teeth in your sleep without realising it — a common condition called bruxism. Left unchecked it can wear down, chip and crack your teeth over time. The good news is that a simple, custom-made night guard can protect your smile. Here’s what causes grinding, how to spot it, and how we can help here in Bilston.

What is teeth grinding (bruxism)?

Bruxism is the medical term for grinding or clenching your teeth. It often happens during sleep, so many people have no idea they’re doing it until a partner mentions the noise or a dentist spots the tell-tale wear. It can also happen in the day, usually linked to concentration or stress. Either way, the constant force — far greater than normal chewing — takes its toll on your teeth, jaw joints and muscles.

Signs you might be grinding your teeth

Common signs include:

• Jaw ache, tension or clicking, especially first thing in the morning
• Frequent headaches or pain around the temples
• Flattened, chipped or increasingly worn teeth
• Teeth that have become sensitive to hot and cold
• Disturbed sleep, or a partner noticing grinding noises at night

If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth getting checked — the earlier grinding is managed, the less damage it does.

Why grinding matters for your long-term dental health

Teeth are remarkably strong, but they aren’t designed to withstand hours of grinding pressure night after night. Over time bruxism can wear enamel away, crack teeth or fillings, loosen crownwork, and strain the jaw joint (the TMJ), leading to pain and clicking. Worn teeth can also age your smile and, in severe cases, need extensive restorative work — so protecting them early is far better (and cheaper) than repairing them later.

How a night guard protects your teeth

A night guard — also called an occlusal guard or splint — is a slim, custom-made shield you wear over your teeth while you sleep. It acts as a cushion, absorbing the grinding force so your teeth glide against the guard rather than each other. That protects the enamel, eases the load on your jaw muscles and joints, and often reduces the morning headaches and jaw ache that come with grinding.

The key word is custom-made. Unlike bulky one-size guards from the chemist, a guard made from a scan of your teeth fits precisely, feels far more comfortable, and lasts much longer — so you’re far more likely to actually wear it.

What to expect at Roseville Smiles

It’s a simple, non-invasive process:

1. Assessment — we examine your teeth for signs of wear and check your jaw and bite, so we understand what’s going on.
2. Scan or impression — we capture the shape of your teeth to make a guard that fits you exactly.
3. Fitting — we make sure it’s comfortable and show you how to wear and care for it.

We’ll also talk through anything contributing to your grinding — stress, sleep or bite issues — so we’re protecting your teeth and tackling the cause.

How much does a night guard cost?

The cost of an occlusal night guard depends on the type and materials, but it’s a small, one-off investment compared with repairing worn or cracked teeth down the line. We’ll give you a clear price after your assessment, with no pressure.

Get help with teeth grinding in Bilston & Sedgley

If you’re waking with jaw pain, or you’ve noticed your teeth looking worn, don’t wait for the damage to add up. Roseville Smiles helps patients across Bilston, Sedgley and the wider Wolverhampton area protect their smiles with comfortable, custom-made night guards.

Book an assessment — call 01902 678202 or get in touch online and we’ll help you put a stop to the grind.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if I grind my teeth at night? Common clues are morning jaw ache or headaches, worn or sensitive teeth, and a partner hearing grinding. A dentist can confirm it from the wear pattern on your teeth.

Can a night guard stop teeth grinding? A guard doesn’t stop the grinding itself, but it protects your teeth and jaw from the damage and usually eases the associated pain. We’ll also help address any underlying causes.

Is a custom night guard better than a shop-bought one? Yes — a custom guard fits precisely, is more comfortable and durable, and is far more likely to be worn consistently than a bulky off-the-shelf version.

How much does a night guard cost? It varies by type and material. It’s a modest one-off cost compared with restoring worn or cracked teeth — you’ll get a clear price at your assessment.