Mouthguards and Nightguards

What are they?

Mouthguards: There are three types of mouthguards available: pre-made, “boil-and-bite”, and custom-made. When you choose a mouthguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, well fitted to your mouth, and easy to keep clean. Your dentist can make you a custom mouthguard that fits your specific teeth (and needs).

Nightguards: Nightguards (or occlusal guards) are made for people who grind/clench their teeth, have TMJ symptoms, or have had numerous restorations. They protect the teeth surfaces from fracturing and from wearing down. They can also help the bone and gums stay healthy around the teeth by preventing excess forces to be transmitted to them. Nightguards are especially important for people who have restorations (fillings, crowns, implants, etc) in their mouth. If worn every night, they will lengthen the lifespan of the restorations and prevent them from chipping and breaking.

What to Expect

Typically 2 appointments. At the first appointment an impression is made of your teeth, and a bite record is made to ensure that your jaw is positioned correctly. Depending on what type of guard has been selected for you, it will either be fabricated in our own in-house lab, or may be sent to an outside lab in some circumstances. At the second appointment, it will be fitted to your teeth to ensure a comfortable fit and a proper bite alignment.

Be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, well fitted to your mouth, and easy to keep clean.