Waking up with a sore jaw, a dull headache, or teeth that feel worn down? You may be grinding or clenching while you sleep, often without realizing it. At Stunning Smiles, Dr. Dev Attri, DDS, designs custom night guards that protect your teeth and help you wake up more comfortable.
A night guard is a thin, protective appliance that fits over your teeth while you sleep. It creates a cushion between your upper and lower teeth so the pressure from grinding and clenching doesn't wear them down. A custom night guard is made from an impression or scan of your own mouth, so it fits comfortably and securely, unlike one-size-fits-all options from the drugstore.
Many people who grind or clench their teeth (a habit called bruxism) don't know they're doing it. You may benefit from a night guard if you notice:
If any of these sound familiar, we'll take a look at your teeth, jaw, and bite and talk with you about what's going on.
Over-the-counter guards can seem like an easy fix, but they're made to fit everyone, which means they may not fit you well. A custom night guard offers:
As a holistic practice, we look beyond the teeth to the bigger picture. Grinding and clenching can be linked to stress, sleep, bite alignment, and overall health. A night guard protects your teeth, and we'll also take the time to talk with you about what may be contributing to the habit. Because sleep and oral health are closely connected, we'll discuss any concerns about your sleep as well.
We start by listening to your symptoms and examining your teeth, gums, and jaw. We'll explain what we see and whether a night guard is a good fit for you.
We take an accurate impression or scan of your teeth so your night guard is made specifically for your mouth.
When your guard is ready, we'll check the fit and make sure it feels comfortable. We'll also show you how to wear and care for it.
We'll check in on how you're feeling and make adjustments if needed. Regular checkups help us make sure your guard continues to protect your smile.
With good care, your night guard can protect your teeth for a long time. We'll give you instructions for your specific guard, but general tips include:
A night guard doesn't necessarily stop the grinding itself, but it protects your teeth and cushions your jaw from the damage. We'll also talk with you about other factors that may be contributing.
It may take a few nights to get used to wearing one. Because yours is custom made, it's designed to fit comfortably. If something doesn't feel right, let us know and we'll adjust it.
That depends on how much you grind and how well you care for it. We'll check it at your regular visits and let you know when it's time for a replacement.
Common clues include morning jaw soreness, headaches, and worn teeth. A dental exam is the best way to find out, so we can look for signs of wear and talk through your symptoms.
In many cases, yes, and a night guard can help protect crowns, fillings, and other restorations. We'll make sure your guard works well with your existing dental work.