"Eventually, I went for a mid-range guard (not custom but not the cheapest either), and it made a noticeable difference."
That's reassuring to hear...I've been stressing about this lately because I wake up with jaw pain almost every morning. I've tried some relaxation apps too, and they help me drift off, but like you said, the grinding still happens. Did you find it uncomfortable sleeping with the guard at first? I'm worried it'll feel weird or keep me awake even more...
I totally get the worry about it feeling weird at first—I was convinced I'd never sleep again with something in my mouth. The first couple nights were definitely awkward, like having a Lego brick stuck in there, lol. But honestly, after a week or so, I barely noticed it anymore. Now it's just part of my bedtime routine, like brushing teeth or scrolling through memes until I pass out. Have you tried anything else besides apps to ease the grinding?
I hear you on the awkwardness at first—felt like I was chewing on a hockey puck for the first few nights. But honestly, ignoring grinding isn't really an option long-term. I tried that route initially, and my dentist wasn't thrilled...said it could lead to cracked teeth or jaw issues down the line. Besides apps, I've found stress-relief techniques like stretching or meditation before bed surprisingly helpful. Might sound a bit woo-woo, but it genuinely made a difference for me. Worth a shot if you're open to it.
Totally relate to the hockey puck feeling, haha. I ignored mine for ages thinking it'd sort itself out—nope, ended up with killer headaches and sore jaws every morning. Tried some nighttime yoga stretches and it weirdly helped a lot...guess my dentist was right about stress being a factor.
"guess my dentist was right about stress being a factor."
Yeah, stress is sneaky like that. I went through something similar—ignored the grinding until I chipped a tooth (not fun). Finally got a nightguard, and honestly, it's been a lifesaver...though yoga sounds way cheaper, lol.
