Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or sensitive teeth? You may be grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep—a condition known as bruxism. At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, we offer custom night guards to protect your teeth from excessive wear, prevent jaw pain, and improve your overall oral health.
What is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-fitted oral appliance worn while sleeping to prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and jaw clenching (TMJ disorders). It acts as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing stress on your jaw muscles and minimizing damage to your teeth.
Common Signs You May Need a Night Guard:
- ✔ Waking up with jaw pain or headaches
- ✔ Teeth grinding sounds heard by your partner
- ✔ Increased tooth sensitivity
- ✔ Chipped, cracked, or worn-down teeth
- ✔ Tension or soreness in the jaw, neck, or face
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to long-term damage, such as tooth fractures, enamel erosion, gum recession, and even TMJ disorders.
Types of Night Guards We Offer
1. Soft Night Guards
- ✅ Ideal For: Mild cases of bruxism and jaw clenching
- ✅ Benefits:
- ● Comfortable and flexible
- ● Provides cushioning for teeth
- ● Reduces minor jaw tension
2. Hard Night Guards
- ✅ Ideal For: Moderate to severe bruxism and TMJ disorders
- ✅ Benefits:
- ● Highly durable and long-lasting
- ● Prevents excessive tooth wear
- ● Helps stabilize the bite and jaw position
3. Hybrid (Dual-Layer) Night Guards
- ✅ Ideal For: Patients needing durability with added comfort
- ✅ Benefits:
- ● Soft inner layer for comfort
- ● Hard outer layer for enhanced protection
- ● Best of both worlds for moderate bruxism
Our team will assess your condition and recommend the best type of night guard based on your symptoms and level of teeth grinding.
The Benefits of a Custom Night Guard
- ✔ Prevents Tooth Damage – Reduces wear and tear on enamel, preventing cracks and fractures.
- ✔ Reduces Jaw Pain & TMJ Symptoms – Minimizes tension in the jaw muscles, alleviating TMJ disorders and discomfort.
- ✔ Decreases Headaches & Facial Pain – Reduces strain on the muscles around your head and neck.
- ✔ Improves Sleep Quality – Helps relax the jaw and prevents unconscious grinding.
- ✔ Protects Dental Work – Keeps crowns, veneers, and fillings from unnecessary stress.
The Process for Getting a Custom Night Guard
- Consultation & Evaluation: A thorough exam to diagnose bruxism, clenching, or TMJ issues.
- Digital Impressions: We take precise digital impressions for a perfectly fitting custom night guard.
- Fabrication of the Night Guard: Crafted using high-quality materials for durability and comfort.
- Fitting & Adjustments: We ensure a comfortable fit and make any necessary adjustments.
- Care Instructions & Follow-Up: Guidance on how to clean and maintain your night guard.
How to Care for Your Night Guard
- 🦷 Rinse Daily – Wash your night guard with lukewarm water after each use.
- 🦷 Brush Gently – Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap (avoid toothpaste, which can be abrasive).
- 🦷 Soak Weekly – Use a denture cleaner or non-alcoholic mouth rinse to prevent bacteria buildup.
- 🦷 Store Properly – Keep your night guard in a ventilated case when not in use.
- 🦷 Avoid Heat – Do not expose your night guard to high temperatures, as this can warp the material.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Do I Know If I Need a Night Guard?
If you experience frequent headaches, jaw pain, or notice worn-down teeth, you may be grinding or clenching at night. A dental evaluation can confirm whether a night guard is necessary.
Can a Night Guard Help with TMJ?
Yes! A custom night guard helps align the jaw and reduce muscle tension, alleviating symptoms of TMJ disorders such as jaw pain, clicking, and headaches.
How Long Do Night Guards Last?
With proper care, a custom night guard can last several years. However, if you grind your teeth heavily, you may need a replacement sooner.
Can I Buy a Night Guard Over the Counter?
Over-the-counter night guards are not custom-fitted, which can lead to discomfort, improper protection, and potential bite misalignment. Custom night guards from a dentist provide superior comfort and durability.
Can Wearing a Night Guard Stop Teeth Grinding Completely?
While a night guard won’t stop bruxism, it prevents damage to your teeth and jaw. If stress is causing your grinding, relaxation techniques or stress management may also help.
Why Choose Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group for Night Guards in Austin, TX?
- 🔹 Prosthodontic Expertise: Custom-fitted night guards for superior protection and comfort.
- 🔹 Advanced Technology: Digital impressions ensure precise fit and durability.
- 🔹 Personalized Care: We assess your symptoms and create a tailored solution.
- 🔹 Comprehensive TMJ & Bruxism Treatment: We go beyond just providing a night guard—we address the root cause.
Schedule Your Custom Night Guard Consultation Today
Protect your teeth, relieve jaw pain, and improve your sleep with a custom night guard from Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group.
📍 1500 W 38th St Ste 34, Austin, TX 78731
📞 (512) 451-7491
Don’t let teeth grinding and jaw pain affect your daily life—schedule your consultation today!
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