What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom dental appliance worn while you sleep. It fits over your teeth and creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth.
A night guard does not stop grinding or clenching completely, but it can help reduce the damage caused by that pressure. It can also help protect crowns, veneers, bridges, bonding, fillings, and natural teeth from excessive wear.
Because a custom night guard is made to fit your mouth, it is typically more comfortable and secure than a store-bought option.
Signs You May Need a Night Guard
Many patients do not know they grind or clench their teeth until a dentist notices signs during an exam. You may benefit from a night guard if you have:
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Jaw soreness or tightness
- Morning headaches
- Tooth sensitivity
- Cracked teeth or fillings
- Facial muscle tension
- Pain when chewing
- A partner who hears grinding at night
- Dental work that needs added protection
Dr. Stein and our team will check your teeth, bite, and jaw symptoms to help determine whether a night guard may help.
Why Choose a Custom Night Guard?
Store-bought night guards may seem convenient, but they often feel bulky, loose, or uncomfortable. If a guard does not fit well, it can be hard to sleep with and easy to stop using.
A custom night guard is designed around your teeth and bite. This helps improve comfort, fit, and protection. For patients who grind or clench regularly, a better-fitting guard can make a big difference in long-term use.
At Hatcher Dental Studio, we will explain your options clearly so you understand why a custom appliance may be recommended.
Protecting Your Smile From Long-Term Damage
Grinding and clenching can create more damage than many patients expect. Over time, it can lead to worn enamel, cracked teeth, gum recession, tooth sensitivity, damaged restorations, and changes in your bite.
A night guard can be a simple preventive step that helps protect your smile before more serious problems develop. It may be especially important if you already have crowns, veneers, bonding, bridges, or fillings that could be damaged by heavy bite pressure.
Our goal is to help you prevent avoidable dental problems and keep your smile comfortable.
Night Guards Near Sunnyslope and North Mountain
Hatcher Dental Studio is located at 421 W Hatcher Rd #101 in Phoenix, AZ. Our office is convenient for patients in Sunnyslope, North Mountain, North Central Phoenix, Royal Palm, Moon Valley, Greater Mountain View, Manistee Ranch, and nearby neighborhoods.
We are also close to Sunnyslope Community Center, Sunnyslope High School, John C. Lincoln Hospital, I-17 and Dunlap Road, and DeVry University.
Schedule a Night Guard Consultation
If you wake up with jaw soreness, have worn teeth, or suspect you may be grinding or clenching at night, Hatcher Dental Studio can help you understand your options.
Call 602-906-9868 to schedule an appointment for a custom night guard in Phoenix, AZ.
FAQs
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
You may notice jaw soreness, morning headaches, tooth sensitivity, worn teeth, chipped teeth, or facial tension. Sometimes, the signs are first noticed during a dental exam.
What does a night guard do?
A night guard creates a protective barrier between your teeth while you sleep. It helps reduce damage from grinding and clenching.
Is a custom night guard better than one from the store?
A custom night guard is made to fit your teeth and bite, which can make it more comfortable, secure, and protective than many store-bought options.
Will a night guard stop me from grinding my teeth?
A night guard does not stop the habit completely, but it helps protect your teeth from the pressure and damage caused by grinding or clenching.
Where can I get a night guard in Phoenix, AZ?
Hatcher Dental Studio provides custom night guards at 421 W Hatcher Rd #101 in Phoenix, AZ, near Sunnyslope, North Mountain, and North Central Phoenix.
