TMJ/TMD Therapy
Custom Night Guards
A custom night guard is a thin appliance worn while you sleep to help protect your teeth from grinding and clenching, and it may ease strain on your jaw muscles.
Grinding and clenching at night
Many people grind or clench their teeth during sleep, a habit known as bruxism, without realising it. Over time, the forces involved can wear down enamel, crack teeth or fillings, and leave the jaw muscles sore and tired.
A custom night guard places a smooth barrier between your upper and lower teeth. It does not stop grinding, but it can help protect your teeth and restorations and may reduce the strain on your jaw.
Grinding is often linked to stress, sleep patterns, caffeine or alcohol, and certain medications. Your dentist may talk with you about these factors too, since a night guard works best as one part of a wider plan. If you also clench during the day, simply noticing it and relaxing your jaw can help.
Signs you may be grinding
- Waking with a sore jaw, tight facial muscles or a dull headache
- Teeth that look flattened, chipped or shorter than they used to
- New tooth sensitivity without an obvious cause
- A partner who hears grinding sounds at night
- Cracked fillings or crowns
These signs can have other causes too. Only an exam can confirm whether grinding or clenching is involved.
How your night guard is made
-
Assessment
Your dentist checks your teeth, jaw and bite, and may recommend a TMJ assessment if you have jaw pain or clicking.
-
Impressions
Impressions of your teeth are taken so the guard can be made to fit your mouth precisely.
-
Fabrication
Your night guard is custom-made from durable material to the design your dentist specifies.
-
Fitting
At a short visit, your dentist checks the fit and adjusts how your teeth meet the guard so it feels comfortable.
-
Follow-up
Bring your guard to checkups so your dentist can check it for wear and make adjustments.
Caring for your night guard
Rinse your guard after each use and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and cool water. Hot water can warp the material. Let it dry and store it in its case, away from pets and heat.
Night guards wear down over time, especially with heavy grinding. If yours cracks, feels loose or changes how your bite feels, contact us so it can be checked.
Night guards vs. sports mouthguards
A night guard is designed for nighttime grinding and clenching. If you are looking for protection during contact or collision sports, see our sports guards and mouthguards page. Store-bought guards are also available, but a custom guard is shaped to your teeth and adjusted to your bite by your dentist, which can make it more comfortable to wear every night.
TMJ/TMD Therapy
- TMJ/TMD Therapy Overview
- TMJ Diagnosis
- Custom Night Guards
- Bite Correction
Protect your teeth while you sleep
Call 780-944-2828 or book an appointment online.