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What Are Occlusal Guards (Night Guards)?
Occlusal guards, commonly referred to as night guards, are custom oral appliances designed to prevent damage caused by teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching during sleep. These guards act as a protective barrier between your teeth, reducing wear and strain on your enamel and jaw joints. Night guards are comfortable, easy to wear, and tailored to fit your unique bite.
Why Would You Need an Occlusal Guard?
You may benefit from an occlusal guard if you grind or clench your teeth at night, often without even realizing it. This condition can lead to tooth damage, jaw pain, headaches, and even issues with the TMJ (temporomandibular joint). Wearing a night guard can help relieve these symptoms, protect your teeth, and promote better sleep quality by reducing discomfort caused by grinding or clenching.
What Makes You a Candidate for an Occlusal Guard?
You may be a candidate for a night guard if you experience symptoms such as jaw soreness, headaches, worn or chipped teeth, or if a dentist has observed signs of bruxism. A consultation with Southeast Denver Dental can help determine if a night guard is right for you. The process includes taking impressions of your teeth to ensure a precise and comfortable fit.
What About Sports Guards?
Although our office primarily provides occlusal guards, we also offer custom sports guards for patients involved in high-impact or contact sports. Sports guards protect the teeth, jaw, and soft tissues from injury during athletic activity. These are especially useful for children and adults playing sports such as football, hockey, or basketball.
What Can You Expect with the Procedure for Mouth Guards?
For both occlusal and sports guards, the process starts with taking impressions of your teeth. These impressions are used to fabricate a custom-fitted guard. Once your mouth guard is ready, you’ll return to our office for a fitting. Any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure maximum comfort and protection. Consistent wear—whether during sleep or sports—is key to getting the full benefits of your mouth guard.
If you think you may need a dental guard while playing sports, call our office and we can get you in to have one made for you.
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