Grinding or clenching your teeth at night can wear down enamel, strain your jaw and leave you waking up with headaches, soreness or tooth sensitivity. At The Dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Kirian offers custom night guards for patients in Newark, Ohio, who need protection from the effects of bruxism.
A custom night guard creates a comfortable barrier between your upper and lower teeth while you sleep. If you suspect you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, call 740-366-1236 to schedule a visit with our dentist.
Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep
Night guards are custom oral appliances designed to fit over your teeth during sleep. They help reduce direct tooth-to-tooth contact, which can limit enamel wear, chipped teeth, jaw strain and other problems caused by nighttime grinding or clenching.
Unlike over-the-counter guards, a custom night guard is made from precise records of your teeth. This helps improve comfort, fit and durability so you are more likely to wear it consistently.
Signs You May Need a Night Guard
Many patients grind or clench their teeth without realizing it. Because bruxism often happens during sleep, the symptoms may show up in the morning or during a routine dental exam.
- Worn, flattened or chipped teeth
- Jaw soreness or tightness when you wake up
- Morning headaches
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pain when chewing
- Clicking, popping or discomfort in the jaw joints
- Cracked fillings, crowns or other dental work
- A sleep partner noticing grinding sounds at night
Benefits of Custom Night Guards
A custom night guard can help protect your teeth and reduce stress on your jaw while you sleep. For patients with bruxism, consistent use may help prevent more serious dental damage over time.
- Protects tooth enamel: A night guard helps limit wear caused by grinding.
- Reduces risk of chips and cracks: Cushioning the teeth can help protect against damage from clenching forces.
- Supports jaw comfort: A night guard may help reduce strain on jaw muscles and joints.
- Helps protect dental work: Crowns, fillings and veneers can be damaged by grinding pressure.
- Custom fit: A professionally made guard is designed for your bite and comfort.
What to Expect When Getting a Night Guard
Your visit begins with an exam to look for signs of grinding, clenching, tooth wear, jaw tension or damage to existing dental work. Our dentist will also discuss your symptoms, sleep habits and any jaw discomfort you may be experiencing.
If a night guard is recommended, our team will take impressions or digital records of your teeth. These records are used to create a custom appliance that fits your bite. Once your night guard is ready, we will check the fit, make any needed adjustments and show you how to wear and care for it.
Custom Night Guards vs. Store-Bought Guards
Store-bought night guards may seem convenient, but they often feel bulky, fit poorly or wear out quickly. A poor fit can make it harder to sleep comfortably and may not provide the level of protection your teeth need.
Custom night guards are made specifically for your mouth. They are designed to fit securely, protect the teeth more evenly and feel more comfortable during nightly use.
How to Care for Your Night Guard
Proper care helps your night guard stay clean, fresh and effective. Our team will give you specific instructions, but most patients should follow these general guidelines:
- Rinse your night guard after each use
- Clean it with mild soap and cool water
- Avoid hot water, which can warp the appliance
- Let it dry before storing it in its case
- Keep it away from pets, who may chew it
- Bring it to routine dental visits so our team can check the fit and condition
Why Choose The Dentist for a Night Guard?
Protecting your teeth from grinding requires a careful evaluation of your bite, tooth wear and jaw symptoms. Dr. Kirian earned his dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry after completing his bachelor’s degree at Capital University. During his time at OSU, he had the honor of serving as one of two team dentists for the athletic department.
He is a member of the American Dental Association®, Ohio Dental Association, Knox-Licking County Dental Association, Ohio State University Dental Alumni Association and Central Ohio Dental Forum, part of the Seattle Study Club. He has been named to Top Dentists of Central Ohio each year since 2012 and completes many hours of continuing education to stay current with changing dental techniques and technology.
Patients in Newark, OH, can expect a personalized approach focused on comfort, prevention and long-term protection for their smiles.
Related Services
Night guards often support broader preventive and restorative dental care. Depending on your needs, you may also want to learn more about:
- General and family dentistry
- Dental cleanings and exams
- Dental crowns
- Digital scanner
- Contact our office
Frequently Asked Questions About Night Guards
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Signs may include worn teeth, jaw soreness, morning headaches, tooth sensitivity or chipped dental work. Our team can check for signs of grinding during your exam.
How long does it take to adjust to a night guard?
Most patients adjust within a few weeks of consistent use. A custom fit can make the adjustment period easier and more comfortable.
Can a night guard stop teeth grinding?
A night guard may not stop the grinding habit itself, but it can help protect your teeth and dental work from the forces caused by grinding and clenching.
Can I clean my night guard with toothpaste?
Toothpaste can be abrasive and may scratch the appliance. Use mild soap and cool water unless our team recommends a specific cleaning product.
How long does a custom night guard last?
A custom night guard can last for years with proper care, but heavy grinding may wear it down sooner. Bring it to your dental visits so our team can inspect it.
Is a custom night guard better than one from the store?
For many patients, yes. A custom night guard is made to fit your teeth and bite, which can improve comfort, protection and consistency of use.
Schedule a Night Guard Consultation
If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches or signs of tooth wear, a custom night guard may help protect your smile. Call 740-366-1236 today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Newark, Ohio.