General Dentistry
Custom Night Guards in Irvine
Grinding your teeth at night? A custom night guard from Sand Canyon Dental in Irvine can protect your teeth, reduce jaw pain, and improve sleep quality.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-fitted oral appliance that you wear while sleeping to prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching. These behaviors can cause significant damage to your teeth over time, including worn enamel, cracked teeth, jaw pain, and even headaches.
Our night guards are made specifically for your mouth to ensure comfort, effectiveness, and long-lasting protection.
Signs You Might Need a Night Guard
You may benefit from a night guard if you experience:
Waking up with jaw pain or soreness
Frequent headaches, especially in the morning
Tooth sensitivity or worn-down teeth
Clicking or popping in the jaw (TMJ symptoms)
Partners reporting grinding noises at night
Even if you’re unaware of grinding, these signs may indicate you need protection while you sleep.
Custom vs. Over-the-Counter
Store-bought night guards offer a generic fit and often don’t provide the same protection. At Sand Canyon Dental, we create your night guard from a digital or physical impression of your teeth, ensuring:
A snug, comfortable fit
Durable material built to withstand grinding
Easy breathing and speaking
No shifting or slipping during the night
Custom guards are more comfortable and more effective than one-size-fits-all alternatives.
The Process of Getting a Night Guard
Getting a night guard is simple and stress-free:
Consultation and evaluation: We assess your symptoms and take impressions.
Fabrication: Your night guard is crafted in a dental lab for a precise fit.
Fitting and instructions: We ensure it fits perfectly and review how to use and care for it.
With proper care, a custom night guard can last several years.
Benefits of Wearing a Night Guard
Prevents tooth wear and damage
Reduces strain on the jaw and TMJ
Decreases headaches and facial tension
Improves quality of sleep
Protects dental work like crowns and fillings
Night guards are a proactive solution to prevent serious dental issues down the line.
How Long Does a Night Guard Last?
A custom hard night guard often lasts several years with good care, though people who grind heavily may wear through one sooner. Bring your guard to your checkups so we can look for cracks, thin spots, or changes in fit.
Caring for Your Night Guard
Rinse it and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush each morning. Skip toothpaste, which can scratch the surface.
Let it air dry, then store it in its case, away from heat and pets.
Don't soak it in hot water, which can warp it.
Bring it to your dental visits so we can check it.
Night Guard Cost and Insurance
Cost depends on the type of guard and your dental plan. Some plans cover part of a night guard when it is needed for grinding, and others don't. Our team can check your benefits before you decide, and we offer payment options if you don't have insurance. See our dental insurance page for details.
Night Guards vs. Sports Mouthguards
A night guard is made to handle grinding and clenching while you sleep. A sports mouthguard is thicker and softer, made to cushion your teeth during contact sports. If you wear clear aligners or a retainer at night, ask us which option fits your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a night guard if I don't remember grinding?
Many people grind in their sleep without knowing it. Worn or chipped teeth, morning jaw soreness, and headaches are common clues. Your dentist can check for signs of grinding at your exam.
Does a night guard help with TMJ pain?
A night guard can ease strain on the jaw for some people who clench or grind. Jaw pain has many causes, so your dentist will check your bite and jaw first and recommend the right next step.
How long does it take to get a custom night guard?
It usually takes two visits: one to take impressions or a scan of your teeth, and one to check the fit once your guard is ready.
Will a night guard feel bulky?
Most people get used to wearing one within a week or two. A custom guard is thinner and fits more closely than a store-bought one, which makes it easier to sleep in.
Can kids wear night guards?
Children's teeth and jaws are still growing, so a night guard is not usually the first step for kids. If your child grinds, mention it at their checkup and the dentist will advise you.
Protect Your Smile While You Sleep
If you’re grinding your teeth or struggling with TMJ symptoms, a custom night guard can make a big difference. Our team at Sand Canyon Dental in Irvine will help you get the relief and protection you need.
Call (949) 727-9077 or book online
Ask About a Custom Night Guard
If you grind or clench your teeth at night, book an appointment with Sand Canyon Dental in Irvine to see whether a custom night guard is right for you.