NIGHT GUARD
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding, clenching, or gnashing of your teeth — often occurring during sleep. Many people aren’t aware they’re grinding until they experience symptoms like jaw pain, morning headaches, tooth wear, or cracked teeth. Over time, bruxism can cause serious damage to Your teeth and strain your jaw joints (TMJ).
How Night Guards Helps
Wearing a custom night guard can help protect
your teeth and relieve symptoms caused by
grinding:
- Prevents Tooth Damage: A night guard acts as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. It cushions the pressure from clenching and grinding, helping to prevent enamel wear, chips, cracks, and long-term structural damage.
- Reduced Jaw Tension and Pain: By absorbing the stress from nighttime grinding, a night guard can ease strain on your jaw muscles and joints. This can help reduce soreness, stiffness, and TMJ-related discomfort when you wake up.
- Improves Sleep Quality: While it doesn’t stop the grinding itself, a properly fitted night guard can make you more comfortable while sleeping — reducing tension and helping prevent interrupted sleep due to clenching-related discomfort.
Why You Might Need a Night Guard
A night guard is often recommended for patients who
grind or clench their teeth during sleep — a condition
known as bruxism. Many people don’t realize they
grind their teeth until they begin experiencing
symptoms like:
- Morning headaches
- Jaw pain or tension
- Worn, chipped, or cracked teeth
- Tooth sensitivity; periodontal disease
- Disrupted sleep
Over time grinding can cause serious damage to your teeth...
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- Tooth wear: The shortening of teeth can alter facial proportions, potentially leading to a wrinkled or sunken appearance, or in some cases, a more prominent, bulky jawline.
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- TMJ disorders also contribute to headaches, neck pain, eye pain, facial congestion and facial tension.
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- Chronic teeth grinding can accelerate bone loss in the jaw, causing the lower face to appear collapsed. As supporting bone diminishes, maintaining oral hygiene becomes increasingly challenging, and the gums may become bruised and more susceptible to injury. Further, tinnitus can be linked to grinding.
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- By reducing jaw muscle tension, wearing a nightguard promotes relaxation and can indirectly enhance facial aesthetics, helping to maintain a more youthful appearance.
First Appointment
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the natural teeth on either side.This process will take two appointments.
- Impressions & Evaluation
- We'll examine your teeth, jaw, and bite to assess signs of grinding or clenching.
- Impressions and a panoramic x-ray of your teeth will be taken.
- You'll have a chance to ask questions about types of night guards and care instructions.
Second Appointment
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the natural teeth on either side.This process will take two appointments.
- Fitting & Instructions
- Once your night guard is ready (usually within 1–2 weeks), you’ll return to try it on.
- We'll check the fit, comfort, and bite, and make any small adjustments needed.
What’s Involved in a Dental Impression?
A dental impression is a quick and simple procedure used to create a custom-fitted night guard. Here’s what to expect:
- We’ll gently place a soft, putty-like material in a tray and fit it over your upper or lower teeth.
- You’ll hold still for about 1–2 minutes while the material sets.
- Once it’s removed, it creates an accurate mold of your teeth and bite.
AFTERCARE
Clean Your Night Guard Daily
- Rinse your night guard with lukewarm water as soon as you remove it in the morning.
- Use a soft toothbrush (no toothpaste) to gently brush away debris and plaque.
- Let it air dry completely before storing it to prevent bacterial growth.
Deep Clean Weekly
- Once or twice a week, soak your night guard in a dentist-approved cleaning solution, denture cleaner, or a mix of water and mild dish soap. (No Dishwasher!)
- Avoid using hot water, mouthwash, or harsh cleaners, as they can warp or damage the material.
Store it Properly
- Keep your night guard in a ventilated case when not in use.
- Make sure it’s completely dry before storing to prevent mold or odor.
- Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or around pets.
Bring to Appointments
- Bring your night guard with you to dental checkups so we can inspect it and ensure it’s still fitting properly.
Costs & Insurance
The cost of a night guard can vary depending on the type of guard recommended (such as soft, dual-layer, or hard acrylic), whether it’s custom-made in a dental lab, and your specific bite and jaw needs. In Canada, coverage for night guards may differ based on your insurance plan and provider. Before moving forward:
- We’ll provide a detailed treatment estimate based on your individual needs and the type of night guard that’s right for you
- Our team can submit a pre-determination to your insurance provider to confirm coverage
- You’ll receive a clear breakdown of any out-of-pocket costs, including lab fees and fitting appointments