Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding, is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth,
most often during sleep. While it might sound harmless at first, over time it can lead to worn
enamel, cracked teeth, jaw tension, and interrupted sleep. For many patients, it’s not just a
stress response, it could be an early warning sign of something deeper, like undiagnosed
sleep apnea.
Dentist have a unique opportunity to screen their bruxism patients for sleep apnea and
appropriately manage both conditions with either a well-designed night guard or mandibular
advancement device. Offering a simple screening and therapy pathway to manage bruxism
and sleep apnea will improve the service offerings dentist provide their community, while
making a real impact on their patient’s wellbeing.
The Link Between Sleep and Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding during sleep can be more than a dental problem, it can have neurological or
airway-related links. It’s widely recognised among the academic and dental community, that
bruxism can be caused or exacerbated by:
● Stress or anxiety
● Sleep disorders like OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea)
● Certain medications or substances
● Bite or jaw alignment issues
Left untreated, teeth grinding can damage more than just the teeth. It can disrupt sleep
cycles, cause or worsen fatigue, and in some cases, cause chronic headaches and neck
pain. Dentists are in a unique position to help their patients become aware of the impacts of
bruxism and OSA and help with simple treatment options.
Why a Custom Night Guard can be a Simple Way to Treat Grinding
Not All Guards Are Created Equal
Standard boil-and-bite guards might offer short-term relief, but they often fail to provide the
comfort, durability, and bite support needed for long-term bruxism management.
Clinical-Grade Solutions for Better Outcomes
A custom-made night guard is an evidence backed, preferred solution, and offers an easy
way to introduce dental sleep medicine into your practice.
Having a bruxism and OSA screening and treatment service allows you to:
● Provide personalised, comfortable treatment options
● Reduce emergency visits from cracked fillings or tooth fractures
● Show patients that your care extends beyond just their smile
For dental providers, this means fewer chairside adjustments and better long-term patient
management.
Hushd Pro Guard: A Smarter Teeth Grinding Guard for Sleep Dentistry
The Hushd Pro Guard is designed specifically with sleep and bruxism cases in mind. It’s
crafted from Medical-Grade Nylon Polyamide Type 12, making it thinner, stronger, and more
comfortable than bulky acrylic alternatives.
Why It Works So Well in Sleep Dentistry:
● Ultra-slim 0.5mm profile: More comfortable for overnight wear
● Durable and long-lasting: Fewer replacements = happier patients
● Digital design: Allows for consistent, precise fit every time
● Bruxism-friendly and sleep-safe: Ideal for patients with mild OSA or UARS
The Hushd Pro Guard is a tool that could open the door to ongoing sleep care
conversations with your patients.
When to Recommend a Teeth Grinding Guard in Your Practice
If your patient presents with any of the following, it’s probably time to consider a bruxism solution:
● Worn or flattened teeth
● Morning jaw soreness or tightness
● Frequent headaches, especially after waking
● Reports of clenching during sleep
● History of poor sleep or snoring
The Hushd Pro Guard is an ideal solution for bruxism patients that are at a low risk of having OSA. The Hushd Pro Guard is designed to improve long term compliance, especially for patients who struggle with traditional acrylic or bulky soft guards.
Getting Started with Dental Sleep Medicine
For providers new to dental sleep medicine, the idea of diagnosing and managing sleep
disorders can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to start with advanced therapy.
Start simple. Start with bruxism.
Here’s How to Add Sleep Value to your Dental Exams:
● Screen for signs of grinding during hygiene and recall appointments
● Ask about morning headaches, jaw tension, or poor sleep
● Offer a clear, easy-to-understand pathway to a custom night guard
● Use your findings to open the door to broader conversations about the importance of sleep
By starting a simple conversation with your patient about the importance of sleep, you position yourself as a healthcare partner that truly cares about your patients health and wellbeing.
Sleep Starts with the Right Support
Teeth grinding isn’t just a dental issue. It’s a sleep health issue and as a Dentist, you are one of the few clinicians trained to spot and stop the damage early.
With products like the Hushd Pro Guard, you’re doing more than protecting enamel. You’re
offering confidence, comfort, and a clear path toward restorative sleep for your patients.
Need help integrating the Hushd Pro Guard into your practice?
Talk to your Good Sleep Co. rep or log into ResDent to order directly today.