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Night Guards

A custom night guard protects your teeth from grinding and clenching while you sleep.

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Many people grind or clench their teeth at night without knowing it, a condition called bruxism. Over time it can wear teeth down, chip them, crack fillings, and cause jaw pain and headaches.

Signs you may need a night guard

  • A sore or tired jaw, or headaches, when you wake up.
  • Teeth that look flat, worn, chipped or shorter than before.
  • Sensitive teeth.
  • Jaw clicking or discomfort.
  • Someone hearing you grind at night.

How a custom night guard works

A night guard is a thin, comfortable appliance that fits over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. It forms a cushion between your teeth, so grinding wears down the guard instead of your enamel. It also helps protect crowns, veneers and implant restorations.

What to expect

  1. An exam of your teeth, bite and jaw joints to confirm a night guard is right for you.
  2. Impressions of your teeth, so the guard is made to fit your bite exactly.
  3. A fitting visit, where we check the fit and comfort and adjust it if needed.

For contact sports, ask us about custom sports mouthguards too.

Common questions

How do I know if I grind my teeth?

Common signs are a sore jaw or headache in the morning, worn or chipped teeth, sensitive teeth, or a partner hearing you grind at night. We can often see the wear at a checkup.

Why not buy a night guard at the drugstore?

Store-bought guards are bulky and don’t fit your bite, so many people stop wearing them. A custom guard is thinner, more comfortable and more protective.

How do I clean my night guard?

Rinse it every morning, brush it gently with cool water, and keep it dry in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp it. Bring it to your checkups so we can check the fit.

Further reading