Many people are afflicted with bruxism, or teeth grinding. Some people may do this consciously during the day, but it is a larger problem at night while you are asleep. Grinding your teeth can damage enamel, wear down teeth, flatten your smile, cause jaw pain and/or irritate your gums. If you grind your teeth, a night guard should be considered. The night guard, which is similar to, but much smaller than, a mouth guard worn by athletes, provides a barrier between your top and bottom teeth while you sleep. All night guards are custom fitted for comfort and to allow for proper breathing.