If you often wake up with jaw soreness, headaches, or sensitive teeth, you may be grinding your teeth at night without even knowing it. At Prestige Dentistry in Palm Harbor and Trinity, FL, we offer professionally fitted night guards that help protect your teeth and relieve pressure on your jaw. These custom-made oral appliances are an effective solution for bruxism and TMJ-related discomfort, designed to improve your sleep and your overall oral health.
A night guard is a removable oral appliance that you wear while sleeping. It fits over your upper or lower teeth and acts as a protective barrier between the upper and lower jaws. This barrier prevents your teeth from grinding against each other and helps relieve tension in your jaw muscles. At Prestige Dentistry, we custom-create each night guard to ensure a precise and comfortable fit based on your unique bite and jaw structure.
There are several types of night guards available over the counter, but store-bought guards often fail to deliver lasting comfort or proper protection. Custom night guards from your dentist are built using durable materials and are tailored specifically to your bite, which helps prevent additional issues like jaw misalignment or increased grinding due to a poor fit.
Many people don’t realize they grind their teeth (a condition known as bruxism) until the damage becomes visible. Here are common signs that may indicate you could benefit from a custom night guard:
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, it’s worth having an evaluation. At Prestige Dentistry, our dentists can assess your bite, review your symptoms, and determine whether a night guard is the right solution for you.
Bruxism can be triggered by several underlying factors, including:
Many patients are unaware they grind their teeth until a dental exam reveals the signs. That’s why regular checkups are so important. During your visit to our Palm Harbor or Trinity office, our team can spot the early warning signs and help prevent further damage with a custom night guard.
Custom-fitted night guards offer several advantages over generic, one-size-fits-all alternatives. Some of the key benefits include:
At Prestige Dentistry, creating your custom night guard involves a simple and painless process:
Night guards are not just for people who grind their teeth. They are also frequently recommended for patients with TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. TMJ disorders can cause pain, clicking or locking of the jaw, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Custom night guards help relieve the pressure on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, reducing inflammation and minimizing pain over time.
If you're experiencing TMJ symptoms, our team can perform a thorough evaluation and recommend the right course of treatment, which may include a night guard as part of a broader TMJ therapy plan.
With offices in both Palm Harbor and Trinity, FL, Prestige Dentistry is committed to delivering exceptional dental care that prioritizes your comfort, health, and long-term wellbeing. Our team combines advanced technology with a personalized approach to ensure you receive the right solution for your needs.
When you choose us for your night guard, you benefit from:
We understand how disruptive teeth grinding and TMJ pain can be, and we’re here to help you feel better, sleep better, and protect your smile.
If you’re dealing with jaw pain, clenching, or other signs of bruxism, don’t wait to get help. A custom night guard can protect your teeth and dramatically improve your comfort. Schedule a consultation today at one of our convenient locations in Palm Harbor or Trinity, FL. Our team at Prestige Dentistry is here to guide you toward lasting relief and a healthier smile.
A custom night guard can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years, sometimes longer with proper care. The durability depends on how severely you grind your teeth and how well you maintain the appliance.
Yes, in some cases. If you clench your teeth during the day or suffer from TMJ, your dentist may recommend a daytime guard. These are usually thinner and less noticeable than nighttime versions.
You should rinse your night guard with cool water after each use and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the material. For deeper cleaning, use a non-abrasive cleanser or a soak designed specifically for dental appliances.
Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for night guards, especially if they’re prescribed to treat bruxism or TMJ. Our office staff will be happy to check your benefits and help you navigate your options.
If your grinding is especially intense, we may recommend a more durable material or evaluate other treatment options to help manage the issue. Let us know if you notice any changes in your night guard’s shape or fit.