What drives grinding
Stress is the most common trigger, but sleep-disordered breathing, caffeine, alcohol, certain antidepressants, and an uneven bite all contribute. Clenching during focused work is also extremely common in high-pressure jobs.
The damage it causes
Grinding wears through enamel, fractures cusps and fillings, loosens teeth, aggravates recession, and causes jaw joint pain and morning headaches. It is also the leading cause of failed veneers and crowns.
Why a custom guard matters
Drugstore boil-and-bite guards are bulky, allow teeth to shift, and often make clenching worse. A lab-processed hard acrylic guard fits precisely, distributes force evenly, and lasts years.
Key takeaways
- •Morning jaw soreness and headaches are classic signs.
- •Custom guards outperform drugstore versions substantially.
- •Persistent grinding warrants a sleep apnea screening.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Your situation deserves an exam.