Family and General Dentistry Practice
Protective Mouth Guards
Use Night Guards to Protect Your Jaw Against Bruxism
Bruxism, the grinding and clenching of teeth, often happens during sleep and can wear down your teeth, strain your jaw, and lead to headaches over time. We can help if you think you may be experiencing this during the night.
This condition can cause extensive damage to your teeth and lead to other dental issues. Bruxism can also lead to TMJ pain(Temporomandibular Joint). Richard Pastrana DDS can provide you with custom night guards to protect your teeth and joints.
"A custom night guard is a small step that saves your teeth from years of grinding wear."
Services Under Mouth Guards
- Custom night guards for teeth grinding
- Guards for jaw clenching and TMJ relief
- Sports mouth guards for athletes
- Custom-fitted impressions for comfort
- long-lasting guard materials
- Fit checks and adjustments
Our Dental Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Night Guard Questions Answered
Answers to what Capital District patients ask us most about bruxism and custom night guards.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help. Reach out anytime.
What is bruxism?
Bruxism is the medical term for grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep. Many people don't realize they do it until they notice symptoms like worn teeth, jaw soreness, or morning headaches. Left unchecked, it can damage your teeth over time, which is why a night guard is worth considering.
How do I know if I grind my teeth?
Common signs include waking up with a sore jaw or headache, increased tooth sensitivity, worn or flattened teeth, and disrupted sleep. Sometimes a partner notices the sound before you do. If you're seeing any of these, we can check for signs of grinding during an exam.
Why choose a custom night guard over a store-bought one?
A custom night guard is made to fit your mouth exactly, which makes it more comfortable and more effective than a one-size-fits-all version from the store. Store-bought guards are often bulky and can fall out during sleep, while a custom guard stays put and is built to last longer.
Can a night guard help with jaw pain and headaches?
Yes. By cushioning your teeth and easing the strain of clenching, a night guard can reduce the jaw tension and headaches that often come with bruxism. Many patients notice they wake up more comfortable once they start wearing one.
How long does a custom night guard last?
With proper care, a custom night guard typically lasts several years. How long depends on how heavily you grind and how well it's cleaned and stored. We'll check it at your regular visits and let you know when it's time to replace it.