8 in 10 football fans dwell on games post-whistle survey reveals

A national survey commissioned by DenTek, the leading brand for nighttime teeth grinding prevention, reveals that nearly 8 in 10 football fans continue to think about the game well after it ends, with many experiencing stress that carries over into bedtime. The findings, part of the inaugural DenTek Football Stress Test, highlight the emotional toll of today’s football culture, which extends far beyond the final whistle.

According to the survey, 78% of football fans continue to dwell on the game post-final whistle, while 77% report thinking about it even after bedtime. A significant 47% have stayed up later than planned because of football, indicating the game’s persistent presence in fans’ lives. Nearly half of these fans have checked football scores while in bed, underscoring the constant connection to the sport.

“Football has always been an emotional sport, but today’s fans don’t just watch—it’s a 24/7 experience,” said Ronde Barber, a NFL legend. “When stress from the game follows you into the night, it’s worth paying attention, especially if it’s affecting your sleep.”

“Whether it’s your favorite team losing, your fantasy lineup faltering, or a last-second upset, football has a way of sticking with you,” added Tiki Barber, his twin brother and fellow NFL veteran. “The DenTek Football Stress Test brings to light what many fans already experience, and it’s a conversation worth having.”

Stress is a common contributor to nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism), a condition that affects millions of people. Among fans who find football season stressful, 39% report feeling anxious, 32% have trouble falling asleep, and 21% experience jaw tension or clenching. Additionally, 69% of these fans grind or clench their teeth at least sometimes during stressful games.

“The DenTek Football Stress Test shows that the stress fans experience can extend well beyond the game, including into bedtime,” said Sandra Kasprzak, DenTek’s Director of Marketing. “With so many fans also reporting jaw clenching or grinding during stressful games, it’s important to recognize the physical manifestations of stress.”

Football’s year-round, around-the-clock nature has created a phenomenon where fans are never truly disconnected from the game. Fantasy football, sports betting, social media, and nonstop news updates contribute to the emotional highs and lows that linger long after the final whistle.

DenTek’s Football Stress Test is the centerpiece of its Fantasy Guards 2.0 initiative, designed to help fans understand the connection between football stress, nighttime teeth grinding, and oral health. Throughout the season, DenTek and the Barber brothers will share findings and react to major NFL storylines across earned media and social content.

For consumers who recognize the signs of nighttime teeth grinding, DenTek Nighttime Dental Guards offer a solution. These guards are BPA-free, designed to protect teeth from the effects of nighttime grinding and are available at major retailers nationwide, including Amazon, Walmart, Target, CVS, and Walgreens.

“While every football season has its winners and losers, the DenTek Football Stress Test serves as a reminder that when the game follows fans long after the final whistle, it is worth paying attention—not just to the score, but to the signs of stress that may follow fans into the night,” said Kasprzak.

For more information about the Football Stress Test and DenTek Nighttime Dental Guards, visit www.dentek.com and follow @dentek on Instagram.

Survey Methodology: The DenTek Football Stress Test was conducted by OnePoll on behalf of DenTek among 1,000 U.S. adults who identify as football fans. The survey was conducted between July 30 and August 5, 2026.

Media Contact: DenTek® Prestige Consumer Healthcare [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) www.dentek.com