Night guards in [city], [st]: protection while you sleep
Night guards help cushion teeth and jaw joints from the forces of clenching and grinding during sleep. At [practice_name] in [city], [st], patients can receive a custom dental night guard designed to fit comfortably and reduce wear on enamel. This guide explains what a night guard is, how it works, and what to expect from the process.
Night guards explained
A night guard is a slim, custom-made oral appliance worn on the upper or lower teeth while you sleep. It creates a small barrier between the teeth so that when the jaw clenches or grinds, the force is absorbed by the guard instead of your enamel, fillings, crowns, or jaw joints. Many people with bruxism do not realize they grind at night; signs include morning jaw soreness, headaches, enamel wear, and chipped teeth.
Custom night guards differ from store-bought “boil-and-bite” trays. A professionally made guard uses precise impressions or a digital scan for a tailored fit, improved comfort, and stable retention. This helps keep the appliance in place through the night and can reduce bulk compared with over-the-counter options.
How night guards can help
- Protect enamel and dental work from fractures, chips, and wear.
- Reduce muscle strain and help calm jaw tension associated with bruxism.
- Support the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) by redistributing forces.
- Lower the risk of morning headaches related to clenching.
- Promote more restful sleep by minimizing tooth-on-tooth contact.
- Provide a long-term, noninvasive option for managing grinding.
Your night guard options
Different materials and designs exist to match needs and comfort. Softer guards can feel cushioned but may wear faster for heavy grinders. Hard acrylic guards are durable and resist deformation. Hybrid designs combine a firm outer layer with a softer inner surface for comfort and longevity. [dr_type] may also discuss whether an upper or lower guard is best; both protect well, and the decision often depends on tooth shape, bite, and comfort.
The night guard process
- Consultation and exam: [dr_type] evaluates teeth, bite, and TMJ, and discusses symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, or broken teeth.
- Impressions or scan: A mold or digital scan creates an exact model for a custom fit.
- Fabrication: A dental lab crafts the appliance to the prescribed material and thickness.
- Fitting appointment: The guard is adjusted for even contact, smooth edges, and comfortable retention.
- Home care guidance: You receive instructions for cleaning, storage, and wear schedule.
What to expect
Most people adapt to wearing a night guard within one to two weeks. It is common to notice extra saliva at first, which settles as you adjust. If any pressure points or rubbing occur, a quick adjustment can improve comfort. With appropriate care, a hard guard can last several years. Heavy grinding, changes in dental work, or orthodontic treatment may shorten lifespan.
Daily care is simple. Rinse the appliance with cool water after removal. Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive soap, then let it air dry fully before storing it in a ventilated case. Avoid hot water and toothpaste, which can warp or scratch the material. Bring the guard to routine dental visits so [dr_type] can check wear and fit.
While a night guard helps protect teeth, it does not cure the cause of bruxism. It is often part of a broader plan that may include stress reduction, sleep hygiene, or bite-related adjustments. Discuss bruxism treatment options, including how a night guard works alongside other strategies, during your visit.