Injectables vs. Night Guards: Which Is Better for Teeth Grinding?

If you wake up with sore jaw muscles, tension headaches, or worn-down teeth, chances are you’re grinding your teeth—often without even realizing it. This condition, known as bruxism, affects millions of people and can lead to significant discomfort and dental damage over time.

Two of the most commonly recommended treatments are night guards and injectable therapies. But which one actually works better—and which is right for you?

At Tend, we help patients understand their treatment options and make confident, informed choices. Here’s how night guards and injectables compare, and what to consider when deciding between the two.

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the habitual, involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth. Many people do this while they sleep, a condition known as sleep bruxism; however, grinding can also occur during the day. Over time, this can lead to dental damage, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and jaw pain.

Causes of bruxism:

• Stress and anxiety
• Sleep disorders like sleep apnea
• Genetic factors

Common symptoms of bruxism include:

• Jaw pain, stiffness or discomfort
• Grinding noises during sleep
• Headaches, especially in the morning
• Tooth sensitivity or enamel wear
• Clicking or popping in the jaw
• Worn-down teeth
• Facial pain or tension
• Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully

If left untreated, bruxism can lead to tooth fractures, gum recession, and long-term joint damage in the jaw.

Bruxism is often managed with treatment plans that include mouth guards or night guards. These dental appliances protect the teeth from wear. The American Dental Association recommends using dental night guards to prevent further damage.

Injectable therapies can also reduce jaw muscle activity and tension. These treatments help relax the masseter and temporalis muscles involved in grinding.

If you suspect you have bruxism, consult with a dental professional to explore the most suitable treatment options.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

There's no single cause for bruxism, but it can cause significant dental problems. One common cause is stress, which increases muscle tension and leads to grinding at night. Sleep disorders like sleep apnea often accompany sleep bruxism, contributing to jaw pain and dental damage.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its associated muscles, such as the masseter and temporalis, play a role in grinding. Muscle activity in these areas can become excessive, leading to muscle contraction during sleep. Misaligned teeth or abnormal dental work may also contribute to bruxism.

Here's a quick list of bruxism causes:

• Stress and anxiety
• Sleep disorders (e.g., sleep apnea)
• Teeth misalignment or dental procedures
• TMJ disorders
• Habitual behaviors like nail-biting or chewing on objects
• Caffeine or alcohol use
• Certain medications

Bruxism can affect anyone, and severity varies from mild to chronic. That’s why a personalized treatment plan from a trusted dental professional is key.

Night Guards: How They Work

A night guard is a custom-molded dental appliance made of durable plastic. It’s worn while sleeping to create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact and absorbing the force of grinding or clenching.

Here’s how night guards function:

• Protective barrier: A night guard acts as a shield between your upper and lower teeth. It prevents direct contact, reducing the risk of wear and tear.
• Cushions the jaw: By absorbing some of the pressure, night guards help in minimizing jaw pain. They also reduce muscle tension and muscle contraction in the jaw and face.
• Improves jaw alignment: Some night guards can help align the temporomandibular joint. This may assist in relieving symptoms of TMJ disorders, and can improve sleep quality as  a result.
• Custom fit: Dental night guards are often custom-made. They provide a comfortable fit, ensuring effectiveness and comfort during sleep.

Considerations:

• Require nightly use—some patients find them uncomfortable
• Do not stop the muscle activity—just protect against damage
• Can wear down over time and require replacement
• Don’t address underlying causes like overactive muscles or stress
• Night guards may improve sleep quality for some users. However, if you have sleep apnea or other sleep disorders, consult your dentist before using night guards.

Night guards are often the first line of defense recommended by dentists for bruxism. They’re safe, easy to use, and effective for many patients. Dental night guards are also endorsed by the American Dental Association for managing bruxism and preventing dental problems.

Injectables: A Different Approach

While night guards focus on mechanical protection, injectable therapies address the root of the problem: overactive jaw muscles.

Injectables involve small, targeted doses of neuromodulators delivered into the jaw muscles—primarily the masseter and sometimes the temporalis. These injections relax the muscles, reducing the intensity of grinding and clenching at its source.

Benefits of injectables for bruxism:

• Relax jaw muscles and relieve muscle tension
• Ease jaw pain linked to temporomandibular joint disorder.
• Reduce the intensity and frequency of grinding/clenching
• Improve jaw mobility and reduce headaches
• No appliances required—nothing to wear while sleeping
• Results last 3–6 months, with minimal maintenance

Injectables are especially helpful for patients who haven’t found relief with night guards or who experience daytime clenching as well as nighttime grinding.

Considerations:

• Results are temporary, and repeat treatments are needed to maintain relief
• Not suitable for everyone—a consultation is essential
• Can involve mild side effects like tenderness or temporary chewing weakness
• Requires expert precision for safe, effective results

Both treatment options have their strengths. Night guards focus on physical protection, while injection therapies target muscle activity in jaw muscles, including the masseter muscle. A consultation with a dental professional is essential to tailor a treatment plan based on individual needs and concerns, especially with issues like TMJ disorders or sleep apnea.

How to Decide What’s Right for You

The best treatment depends on your symptoms, goals, and lifestyle.

Consider a night guard if:

• You’re dealing with mild to moderate grinding
• You prefer non-invasive, at-home options
• Your main concern is protecting your teeth, not muscle relief
• You want something covered by insurance

Consider injectables if:

• You experience muscle pain, stiffness, or limited jaw movement
• You have not responded well to night guards
• You need relief from headaches or facial tension
• You want a low-maintenance option with longer-lasting results

In some cases, a combination of both treatments is recommended. For example, injectables may reduce muscle activity, while a night guard adds protection during sleep.

Tend’s clinical team will guide you through a full evaluation, explaining your options and building a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

What to Expect From Each Treatment

With a Night Guard:

• Impressions or digital scans taken during your visit
• Custom guard created to fit your bite
• Instructions on care and wear provided
• Adjustment period of a few nights to get used to it
• Periodic checks to ensure fit and effectiveness

With Injectables:

• Consultation and muscle assessment
• Injection sites identified (typically masseter, sometimes temporalis)
• Small injections completed in 10–15 minutes
• Gradual onset of muscle relief (3–7 days)
• Full effects by 2 weeks; results last 3–6 months

Both treatments are available at Tend and can be easily integrated into your care routine.

Can You Combine Both Treatments?

Yes! Many patients benefit from combining injectables and a night guard—especially if they have severe bruxism, TMJ symptoms, or a history of tooth damage.

This dual approach can:

• Provide immediate muscle relief from overactive jaw muscles
• Provide long-term protection
• Help patients sleep better and feel more refreshed
• Support a preventive care plan customized by your dentist

Your Tend provider will help determine the best strategy based on your oral health, lifestyle, and symptoms.

Why Choose Tend for Bruxism Treatment?

Tend does more than treat teeth—we care for the whole experience. From the moment you walk into one of our bright, spa-like studios, you’ll feel at ease. Our friendly, top-rated clinical staff provide personalized, judgment-free care that’s focused entirely on you.

Whether you’re curious about injectables, looking for a better night guard, or just want to stop waking up in pain, we’re here to help.

Choosing Tend means prioritizing your oral health and comfort. Our team ensures you receive the best care for your teeth grinding issues.

Get Relief from Grinding—Your Way

Bruxism doesn’t have to control your day—or disrupt your sleep. Whether you choose a custom night guard, injectable therapy, or a combination of both, there are safe, effective ways to relieve tension, protect your teeth, and feel better fast.

Your dedicated Tend team will help you understand your options and take the next step with confidence.

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