image of molars for bruxism concept, and how custom nightguards can help

TMJ Pain or Nighttime Clenching: Custom Nightguards for Eagle County

Published November 19, 2025 9:00 am

Waking up with a sore jaw, tight facial muscles, or even headaches? You might be grinding or clenching your teeth at night—also known as bruxism—and it’s more common than you’d think. For many residents of Eagle County, nighttime clenching isn’t just a minor annoyance; over time, it can lead to worn-down teeth, jaw pain, and even contribute to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction.

At Altitude Family Dental in Gypsum, Dr. Joshua Rudin and Dr. Greg Adair offer custom nightguards as a comfortable, effective solution to protect your smile and ease jaw tension.

How Nightguards Help with TMJ and Bruxism

Nightguards are slim, custom-fitted devices worn while you sleep. They work by placing a gentle barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing the forceful contact that leads to tooth wear, muscle strain, and joint inflammation.

Patients dealing with TMJ symptoms—like jaw clicking, difficulty opening the mouth, or facial pain—often find significant relief with a properly fitted nightguard. It cushions the joint and reduces stress on the surrounding muscles, giving your jaw a much-needed break.

Why Go Custom?

Over-the-counter nightguards may be convenient, but they’re rarely comfortable or effective for long-term use. A custom nightguard from Altitude Family Dental is designed specifically for your bite and jaw alignment, ensuring it stays in place and doesn’t interfere with your breathing or sleep. Plus, it’s made from durable materials built to last.

Signs You Might Benefit from a Nightguard

  • Jaw pain or soreness in the morning
  • Clicking or popping when opening your mouth
  • Headaches, especially around the temples
  • Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity with no clear cause
  • Tight or tender facial muscles

If these sound familiar, it’s worth scheduling an evaluation. The sooner bruxism is addressed, the more damage you can prevent.

TMJ and Nightguard Solutions in Gypsum, CO

At Altitude Family Dental, Dr. Rudin and Dr. Adair are committed to helping Eagle County patients get the relief they need with conservative, personalized care. Whether you’re dealing with nighttime clenching, TMJ pain, or both, a custom nightguard could be the small change that brings big relief. Give us a call to schedule your consultation—we’re here to help protect your smile while you sleep.

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