Restorative · Night guards
Night guards for teeth grinding
If you grind your teeth, a custom night guard protects them from wear and can ease related jaw pain and headaches. Dr. Monzer Shakally explains the types of guards and how they help in the video below.
Make the night-guard discussion specific to your teeth
Dr. Shakally's night-guard explanation distinguishes protection from grinding from treating every possible cause of jaw discomfort. At your Southern Smiles visit, describe when you notice discomfort or wear and bring any guard you already use. Ask whether a custom guard is appropriate and how its fit and your existing dental work will be assessed. Discuss how to wear and clean it, what to do if it feels uncomfortable, and when to have it reviewed. Raise any planned restorative or orthodontic treatment before ordering a new appliance.
- Discuss existing or planned crowns
Read about crowns if your visit also involves restoring a damaged tooth.
- Planning adult Invisalign treatment?
Review our adult orthodontic approach and discuss appliance timing with the team.
Common questions
Everything you need to know
Answers from Dr. Shakally on candidacy, the process, timeline, and what to expect.
A mouthguard is a removable appliance, usually worn at night, that keeps you from damaging your teeth while you grind. People who clench or grind, often during sleep, benefit most.
The most common is a night guard for grinding. There are also sports guards to protect teeth during activity, and special devices for snoring or sleep apnea.
It cushions the force of grinding so your teeth, not the guard, are spared. Some people grind during the day too, so it can be worn whenever the grinding happens.
It can, when the pain is driven by grinding. If the joint itself is damaged for other reasons, a guard alone may not be enough, and we would look at the underlying cause.
Boil-and-bite guards from the store sometimes work, but they are bulky and many people stop wearing them. A custom guard fits better and is more comfortable, which means you actually wear it.
Rinse and brush it with mild soap and water, and store it dry. How long it lasts depends on how hard you grind, anywhere from several months to a few years.
Waking up with jaw pain or headaches?
Come in for a consultation. We will look at your situation honestly and walk you through your options, the timeline, and the cost before you commit to anything.
Worried about cost? Flexible payment plans are available.