TMJ/TMD Treatment
An exam and care plan for jaw pain, clicking, locking and tension headaches.
About tmj/tmd treatmentPreventive care
Night guards for grinding in Herriman
Do you wake up with a sore jaw, a dull headache or teeth that feel tender? You may be grinding or clenching in your sleep. A custom night guard can help protect your teeth while you rest.
What is a night guard?
A night guard is a thin, clear tray that fits over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. It keeps your top and bottom teeth from rubbing and pressing on each other. This can ease the strain on your teeth, jaw and dental work.
- Also called an occlusal guard or bite splint
- Custom-made from a scan of your teeth
- Worn only at night, or when your dentist advises
Signs a night guard may help
Most people do not know they grind. Often a partner hears it, or your dentist spots the wear. A night guard may help if you notice:
- Jaw soreness or tightness when you wake up
- Morning headaches near your temples
- Teeth that look flat, chipped or worn down
- Teeth that feel sensitive for no clear reason
- Crowns, fillings or veneers that keep breaking
At your visit, your dentist checks your teeth for wear, feels your jaw muscles and looks at your bite. If your jaw also clicks, locks or hurts during the day, you may need a fuller look at the joint. Our page on TMJ and TMD care explains that exam. If loud snoring or gasping in your sleep is part of the picture, tell your dentist, since that can point to a sleep breathing problem that needs its own evaluation.
Getting your night guard
- Exam. Your dentist confirms signs of grinding or clenching and checks for any damage that needs repair first.
- Scan. We take a digital scan of your teeth so the guard matches your bite.
- Fitting. When your guard is ready, you try it in. Your dentist adjusts it so your bite feels even and the guard does not pinch.
- Follow-up. After a few weeks of wear, let us know how it feels. Small tweaks can make a big difference in comfort.
Why not a drugstore guard?
Over-the-counter guards are thick and often fit loosely. Some people chew on them, which can make clenching worse. A custom guard is thinner, fits your bite and is easier to sleep in.
Caring for your night guard
Each morning, rinse your guard and brush it gently with a soft brush and mild soap. Let it air dry, then store it in its case. Do not soak it in hot water or leave it in the sun. Brush and floss your teeth before you put it in at night. Bring it to every checkup so your dentist can look for cracks or thin spots.
Cost and insurance
Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.
FAQ
Questions about night guards
Will a night guard stop me from grinding?
A guard does not usually stop the habit itself. It takes the wear so your teeth do not. Many people find their jaw feels less sore once they wear it every night.
How long does a night guard last?
It depends on how hard you grind. Many guards last a few years. Heavy grinders may wear through one sooner. We check yours at each visit.
Is it hard to sleep with a night guard?
The first few nights may feel odd. Most people adjust within a week or two. If it still feels tight or makes your teeth ache, we can adjust it.
What happens if I skip wearing it?
The grinding goes on without a buffer. Over time, that can wear down enamel, crack teeth and break dental work. Wearing it most nights gives you the most protection.
Is a night guard the same as a sports mouth guard?
No. A night guard is thin and hard so it holds up to grinding. A sports guard is thicker and softer to absorb hits.
Related care
You may also want to know about
Mouth Guards
Custom-fit guards that help protect teeth, lips and jaw during sports and active play.
About mouth guardsDental Veneers
Thin, custom shells that cover chips, gaps and stains on your front teeth.
About dental veneersQuestions?
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