A night guard is a custom-fitted dental appliance worn while you sleep to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching. Dr. Hickson creates night guards specifically molded to your teeth for maximum comfort and protection. They act as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, preventing damage and reducing strain on your jaw muscles.

Common signs include waking with headaches or jaw pain, worn or chipped teeth, increased tooth sensitivity, tight or sore jaw muscles, and your partner noticing grinding sounds at night. During your exam, Dr. Hickson will look for signs of teeth grinding such as worn enamel, flattened teeth, or damage to existing dental work. If you experience any of these symptoms, a night guard may help.

Teeth grinding (bruxism) can be caused by stress and anxiety, sleep disorders, misaligned teeth or bite, certain medications, and lifestyle factors like caffeine or alcohol consumption. Many people grind their teeth unconsciously during sleep. Dr. Hickson will help identify potential causes and recommend appropriate treatment, which often includes a custom night guard.

Custom night guards from Dr. Hickson are precisely molded to fit your unique dental structure, providing superior comfort, protection, and durability. Store-bought guards are one-size-fits-all and often uncomfortable, leading to poor compliance. Custom guards are made from higher-quality materials, last longer, and provide better protection for your teeth and jaw. The investment in a custom guard pays off in comfort and effectiveness.

While there's a brief adjustment period, most patients find custom night guards quite comfortable. Because they're made specifically for your mouth, they fit snugly without being bulky. Dr. Hickson ensures proper fit and makes any necessary adjustments. Most people adapt within a few nights and find the relief from grinding symptoms well worth any initial adjustment period.

The process typically takes two appointments. During your first visit, Dr. Hickson will take impressions of your teeth. Your custom night guard is then fabricated in a dental laboratory, which usually takes 1-2 weeks. At your second appointment, we'll ensure proper fit and provide care instructions. You'll leave with a night guard ready to protect your teeth that very night.

Yes, night guards can be very effective for TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. They reduce stress on the jaw joint, relax jaw muscles, and prevent the clenching and grinding that exacerbate TMJ symptoms. Many patients experience significant relief from jaw pain, headaches, and other TMJ symptoms after starting to use a night guard. Dr. Hickson can evaluate whether a night guard is appropriate for your TMJ concerns.

Rinse your night guard with cool water after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (not toothpaste), allow it to air dry completely before storing, and keep it in its protective case when not in use. Deep clean it weekly by soaking in denture cleaner or a vinegar solution. We'll provide detailed care instructions to help your night guard last for years.

With proper care, a custom night guard typically lasts 3-5 years, though this varies based on the severity of your grinding. Dr. Hickson will check your night guard at regular dental visits and recommend replacement when it shows significant wear. Severe grinders may need replacement more frequently. A well-maintained night guard is a long-term investment in protecting your teeth.

Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for custom night guards, especially when there's documented evidence of bruxism or TMJ disorder. Coverage varies by plan, with some covering 50-80% of the cost. Our team will verify your benefits and provide a detailed cost estimate before treatment. Even without insurance, a custom night guard is a worthwhile investment in preventing costly dental damage.

A night guard doesn't necessarily stop the grinding habit itself, but it protects your teeth from damage and reduces strain on your jaw. Over time, some patients find they grind less as jaw muscles relax and symptoms improve. The guard prevents the destructive effects of grinding while Dr. Hickson works with you to address underlying causes like stress or bite issues.

If you clench your teeth during the day, you can wear your night guard for protection. However, daytime clenching often benefits from a different approach. Dr. Hickson may recommend a separate daytime appliance or other treatments like stress management techniques, bite adjustment, or physical therapy. We'll develop a comprehensive treatment plan based on when and why you're clenching or grinding.