Night guards in [city], [st]: protect teeth from grinding

Patients seeking night guards in [city], [st] can find clear, practical guidance at [practice_name]. A custom night guard is a slim oral appliance worn during sleep to cushion teeth, reduce strain on jaw muscles, and protect dental work from nighttime clenching and grinding. This page outlines how night guards work, who may benefit, and what to expect from the process.

Night guards explained

A night guard, sometimes called an occlusal guard or bite splint, creates a smooth barrier between the upper and lower teeth. It redistributes biting forces and helps limit the micro-movements that wear enamel and stress the temporomandibular joint. Unlike sports mouthguards, which absorb impacts, a night guard is designed specifically for bruxism and jaw tension during sleep.

Custom guards are made from precise impressions or digital scans, which helps the appliance fit comfortably and stay put overnight. This tailored fit is important for effectiveness and for avoiding unwanted changes in your bite. Many patients ask, “What is a night guard supposed to do?” The goal is protection, not stopping the habit altogether. While a night guard does not cure bruxism, it acts as an effective teeth grinding treatment to minimize damage and discomfort.

How night guards can help you

• Protects enamel from wear, chipping, and fractures caused by grinding.
• Reduces morning headaches, muscle soreness, and jaw fatigue.
• Helps shield crowns, fillings, veneers, and implant restorations from excessive forces.
• Supports a more stable bite by guiding smoother tooth contact during sleep.
• May lessen TMJ-related symptoms such as popping, stiffness, or tenderness.
• Can improve sleep quality for some patients by easing clenching intensity.

The night guard process

The path to a comfortable, effective guard is straightforward and tailored to your needs.

• Assessment: A dental exam reviews tooth wear patterns, jaw mobility, and symptoms like headaches or facial soreness.
• Impressions or scan: Precise molds or digital scans capture your bite for a custom fit.
• Fabrication: The lab designs a guard in the appropriate material, such as hard acrylic or dual-laminate.
• Delivery and adjustments: The appliance is tried in, bite contacts are checked, and small adjustments are made for comfort.
• Instructions: You receive guidance on wear schedule, cleaning, and storage to keep the guard in top shape.

Your night guard experience

Most people adjust to a night guard within one to two weeks. Initial saliva increase or mild pressure is common and usually fades quickly. Wear the guard nightly or as directed. If you skip nights, the protective benefits decrease and symptoms can return.

Care is simple. Rinse after use, brush the guard gently with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive soap, and allow it to air dry in a ventilated case. Avoid hot water that can warp the material. Bring the guard to routine checkups so it can be inspected and cleaned as needed. With consistent use and good care, many custom guards last several years, though heavy grinders may need earlier replacement.

Patients often wonder about custom night guards versus store-bought versions. Over-the-counter trays can feel bulky and may not distribute forces evenly. A custom-fit design helps ensure comfort, durability, and proper contact points, which are critical for protecting teeth and supporting the jaw.