Dsalita Why Do My Teeth Hurt When I Wake Up With a Mouthguard?
Wearing a mouthguard during sleep is a common practice for people who grind or clench their teeth. While it can help alleviate the symptoms of teeth grinding, some people may experience tooth pain when they wake up. Here are some possible reasons why your teeth may hurt when you wake up with a mouthguard:
The Mouthguard is Too Tight
If your mouthguard is too tight, it can put pressure on your teeth and cause them to ache. This can happen if you have a custom-made mouthguard that no longer fits properly due to changes in your teeth or if you have a one-size-fits-all mouthguard that is too small for your mouth. In either case, you may need to get a new mouthguard that fits better.
The Mouthguard is Too Thick
If your mouthguard is too thick, it can also cause tooth pain. This is because the thickness of the mouthguard can put pressure on your teeth and gums, causing them to ache. You may need to get a thinner mouthguard that is more comfortable to wear.
You are Clenching Too Hard
If you are still experiencing tooth pain even with a properly fitting mouthguard, it could be because you are clenching your teeth too hard. This can happen if you are under a lot of stress or if you have a sleep disorder like sleep apnea. In this case, you may need to seek treatment for your underlying condition to alleviate the tooth pain.
You Have a Tooth Infection
In some cases, tooth pain can be a sign of a tooth infection. If you have a cavity or a cracked tooth, bacteria can enter the tooth and cause an infection. This can cause tooth pain that is exacerbated by wearing a mouthguard. If you suspect that you have a tooth infection, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
You Have Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common condition that can cause tooth pain. If you have gum disease, the gums around your teeth can become inflamed and tender, which can cause tooth pain. Wearing a mouthguard can exacerbate this pain by putting pressure on the gums. If you suspect that you have gum disease, you should see a dentist for treatment.
You Have a Misaligned Bite
If your teeth are not properly aligned, it can cause tooth pain. This is because the pressure from clenching or grinding can be unevenly distributed across your teeth, causing some teeth to ache. Wearing a mouthguard can exacerbate this pain by putting additional pressure on your teeth. If you suspect that you have a misaligned bite, you should see an orthodontist for treatment.
You Need to Adjust to Wearing a Mouthguard
It is possible that your tooth pain is simply a result of needing to adjust to wearing a mouthguard. It can take some time for your mouth to get used to the mouthguard, and you may experience some discomfort during this time. However, if the tooth pain persists after a few weeks of wearing the mouthguard, you should see a dentist to rule out any underlying conditions.
In Conclusion
There are several possible reasons why your teeth may hurt when you wake up with a mouthguard. If the tooth pain persists or is severe, you should see a dentist to rule out any underlying conditions. In the meantime, you may need to adjust the fit or thickness of your mouthguard or seek treatment for any underlying conditions that may be causing the tooth pain.
