Wake Up to the Protective Powers of Customized Night Guards

Do you wake up with jaw pain or tension headaches? Have you noticed signs of cracked or fractured teeth? The culprit could be bruxism, and you may need a night guard to protect your smile from further damage. We provide customized night guards at Buena Vida Dental Studio for optimal protection and comfort when sleeping. If you suspect chronic teeth grinding at night, visit our Tucson, Arizona office and get the right protection.

How does a mouthguard work?

Your teeth are surprisingly powerful, generating hundreds of pounds of pressure every time you chew. That pressure is perfectly safe when directed at food, designed to break it down and help you digest it easily.

However, what happens when there’s nothing between your teeth? For people who grind or clench their teeth at night—a condition called bruxism—that same pressure becomes a silent threat. With no cushion-like food in the way, your teeth are left grinding against each other, night after night. This constant stress can:

  • Wear down enamel
  • Crack or fracture your teeth
  • Loosen dental restorations like fillings or crowns
  • Lead to jaw pain and tension headaches

These dental issues can be painful and costly. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. A nightguard over your upper or lower teeth can prevent the damage. A nightguard prevents direct tooth-to-tooth contact to protect your smile from pain and damage.

Are there different types of mouthguards?

A nightguard is a valuable investment for your smile if you grind and clench your teeth at night. However, not all nightguards are created equal. Explore the different mouthguard options and discover the one that best suits your needs.

  • Stock nightguards: Generic or pre-formed guards are the cheapest but offer the least protection. They are available in standard sizes, so finding a perfect fit is often difficult. They are bulky and uncomfortable and may interfere with breathing or speaking. We don’t recommend them because they can cause more harm than good.
  • Boil-and-bite nightguards: Mouth-formed guards are found in most drugstores and are made of thermoplastic material that you soften in hot water and mold at home. They offer better protection than generic mouthguards. However, they are still DIY, which provides a poor fit for most people.
  • Custom nightguards: These are the holy grail of mouthguards. They are professionally made based on precise digital impressions of your teeth. They are created to match your unique bite and jaw anatomy. They offer optimal comfort, protection, and durability that you can’t match with over-the-counter options.

Even the best mouthguards need proper maintenance to keep them healthy and strong. After each use, clean your appliance with non-abrasive soap and a soft brush. Store your nightguard in the provided case when not in use. Regularly inspect your mouthguard for signs of wear and have it replaced immediately if it’s damaged or no longer fits properly.  

Do you need a custom nightguard in Tucson, Arizona?

Do you grind your teeth at night? A nightguard is a simple, non-invasive way to protect your smile and sleep. Don’t let bruxism ruin your smile and quality of life. Call (520) 745-5577 and get a customized nightguard at Buena Vida Dental Studio.