Many people who wear a Night Guard Splint for the first time often wonder, “Why do my teeth hurt after using it?” While these devices are highly effective in protecting against teeth grinding and jaw clenching, mild discomfort is common during the adjustment phase. The good news is that most cases of soreness are temporary and usually resolve with consistent use. If you’ve searched for a Dental Clinic Near me, you’ve likely come across advice on how splints help with bruxism, but it’s equally important to understand why some initial discomfort happens and how to manage it.
What is treatment and how it works?
A Night Guard Splint In Dubai is a custom-made dental appliance designed to reduce the damage caused by teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching. It works by:
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Creating a protective barrier between upper and lower teeth
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Absorbing the pressure from grinding movements
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Distributing bite force evenly across the jaw
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Reducing stress on teeth, gums, and jaw muscles
However, because the splint changes how your teeth come together, your mouth and muscles may take time to adapt. This adjustment can explain the temporary soreness that some people feel.
Importance of treatment:
Ignoring bruxism or discontinuing splint use because of mild pain may lead to more serious long-term issues. Without treatment, grinding and clenching can cause:
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Enamel erosion and tooth fractures
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Chronic jaw stiffness and pain
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Sensitivity in the teeth
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Damage to crowns, fillings, or veneers
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Morning headaches and disrupted sleep
That’s why Dentists in Dubai emphasize that even if discomfort occurs at first, consistent use of the splint is vital for long-term protection. If you’re considering visiting a Dental Clinic Near me in Dubai, you’ll likely find that a properly fitted splint is one of the most reliable ways to manage bruxism effectively.
Types of treatment:
There are different types of Night Guard Splints, and choosing the right one can influence whether you experience soreness or not.
Soft splints:
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Made of flexible material
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More comfortable for beginners
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Best for mild grinding cases
Hard splints:
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Made of durable acrylic
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Suitable for moderate to severe grinding
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May feel tighter at first, causing temporary soreness
Dual laminate splints:
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Combine a soft interior with a hard exterior
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Balance comfort and durability
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Often recommended for moderate bruxism
Clinics such as Enfield Dental Clinic in Dubai may offer these variations to suit individual needs and grinding severity.
Preparation:
To reduce discomfort, proper preparation is key before starting treatment with a Night Guard Splint. The process usually includes:
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A comprehensive dental checkup to assess bruxism severity
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Impressions or digital scans for a precise fit
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Fabrication of the splint in a dental lab
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An initial fitting to check comfort and alignment
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Minor adjustments to ensure it doesn’t feel too tight
Skipping these steps or using an over-the-counter guard that doesn’t fit properly may increase the chances of tooth soreness.
Aftercare:
Aftercare is essential not only for hygiene but also for comfort. Following these practices can minimize pain:
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Rinse the splint with cool water before and after use
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Use a soft brush and mild soap for cleaning (avoid toothpaste)
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Store it in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup
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Avoid chewing hard foods immediately after removing the splint
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Visit your dentist regularly for adjustments if soreness continues
With proper aftercare, your splint will remain comfortable and effective for long-term use.
Ideal candidate:
A Night Guard Splint is especially beneficial for:
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People diagnosed with chronic bruxism
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Those who wake with sore jaws or morning headaches
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Individuals with tooth wear, cracks, or sensitivity
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Patients with dental restorations who want protection
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Anyone under stress who clenches unconsciously
However, if you experience persistent pain after several weeks, you may need a refitting or a different type of splint.
How to choose a right clinic?
If you’re experiencing pain, choosing the right provider can make all the difference. When looking for a Dental Clinic Near me in Dubai, consider:
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Clinics that use advanced digital scanning for accurate impressions
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Availability of different splint types based on severity
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Dentists who provide follow-up appointments for adjustments
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Clear instructions on splint care and maintenance
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A reputation for handling bruxism-related issues
The right clinic ensures your device fits comfortably and prevents unnecessary discomfort.
Risks:
While splints are generally safe, some risks may cause teeth soreness:
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Poor fit from over-the-counter devices
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Tightness due to new splint adjustments
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Uneven bite alignment if not checked by a professional
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Prolonged use of damaged or worn-out splints
Most risks can be avoided with a professionally fitted appliance and regular dental monitoring.
Benefits:
Despite initial discomfort, the benefits of wearing a Night Guard Splint far outweigh the temporary drawbacks:
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Protects enamel from grinding damage
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Reduces jaw strain and TMJ stress
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Prevents wear on fillings, crowns, and veneers
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Lowers the risk of tooth fractures
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Improves sleep by minimizing grinding sounds
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Helps reduce morning headaches
These benefits show why splints are a long-term investment in oral health.
FAQs:
Why do my teeth feel sore after using a night guard?
This happens because your teeth and jaw are adjusting to the new device. The discomfort usually resolves within days to weeks.
Should I stop wearing it if I feel pain?
No. Unless the pain is severe or persistent, continue using it. If discomfort lasts more than two weeks, consult your dentist.
Do store-bought night guards cause more soreness?
Yes, because they lack a precise fit. Custom splints are far more comfortable.
Can wearing a splint damage my teeth?
Not if fitted correctly. In fact, it protects your teeth from damage caused by grinding.
How long does it take to adjust to a night guard?
Most people adjust within one to two weeks, though some may take a little longer.
Conclusion:
So, why do my teeth hurt after using a Night Guard Splint? In most cases, the discomfort is temporary and part of the natural adjustment process. A well-fitted splint protects against enamel wear, jaw strain, and dental damage, ensuring long-term oral health. If you’re searching for a Dental Clinic Near me, you’ll find that many expert Dentists in Dubai recommend custom splints as the most effective way to manage bruxism. Clinics such as Enfield Dental Clinic in Dubai provide tailored solutions that balance protection and comfort. With consistent use and proper care, your Night Guard Splint will become an essential part of maintaining strong, healthy teeth and a pain-free jaw.
