Bruxism, the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, is more common than many people think, and it often happens without you realizing it. Over time, grinding can wear down your teeth, damage fillings, and cause jaw or facial pain.
Grinding often happens during sleep, which is why so many people don’t know they’re doing it. The exact cause isn’t always clear, but it may be linked to sleep apnea, stress, smoking, caffeine, or heavy alcohol use. For nighttime grinding, a professional night guard for teeth grinding is one of the most common ways to protect your teeth. Made from comfortable, form-fitting acrylic, it fits over your upper or lower teeth and creates a slim cushion between them, helping prevent the wear that comes with grinding night after night.
Some people clench their teeth during the day, especially when they’re stressed, focused, or frustrated, and often without noticing. Simple habit changes can make a big difference over time. In the meantime, your dentist may suggest a day guard, which works much like a night guard but is worn during the day. Depending on your needs, a day guard can help keep your bite stable or gently guide your lower jaw into a more relaxed position so the surrounding muscles can rest.
f you play sports, a well-fitted mouthguard is one of the simplest ways to protect your teeth. Sports guards help shield your teeth, gums, and jaw from impact. Some athletes skip them because they worry about comfort or breathing, but a guard that fits properly makes it easy to breathe, talk, and stay focused on the game. That’s why we offer custom sports mouthguards in Mission Viejo, CA, for athletes of all ages who play contact sports or any activity where a fall or hit could cause an injury.
Every custom guard we make is designed to:
• Fully cover your teeth and gums
• Hold up to regular use without wearing down too quickly
• Keep your upper and lower teeth in a comfortable, balanced position
• Stay securely in place, even on impact
• Use safe, high-quality materials
• Let you speak as naturally as possible
Mouthguards generally come in three types:
• Stock mouthguards: Sold ready-made at sporting goods stores and pharmacies. They’re affordable but often fit loosely, which can make breathing harder, so they’re best for short-term use.
• Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Softened in hot water and shaped over your teeth at home. They’re popular because they’re easy to find and low in cost.
• Custom mouthguards: Made just for you from impressions of your teeth, offering the best fit, comfort, and protection.
Getting a custom guard at Oso Marguerite Dental is quick and comfortable. At your first visit, we’ll take impressions of your teeth. At your second visit, we’ll fit your new guard and make sure it feels just right. Our dentists welcome patients from around Orange County, CA, so call (949) 682-3535 to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Will a mouthguard cure my bruxism?
A mouthguard can’t cure bruxism, but it plays an important role in protecting your teeth. Finding out why you grind can take some time, and a custom guard helps keep your teeth strong and healthy while we work with you on the cause. It’s often one part of a broader teeth grinding treatment plan.
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Who should wear a sports guard?
Anyone, adult or child, who plays a sport that could lead to an injury to the teeth, mouth, or jaw can benefit from a sports guard. That includes football, martial arts, rollerblading, and many other activities.
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If I wear a night guard, will it fall out while I am sleeping?
A custom night guard from Oso Marguerite Dental is designed to stay comfortably in place all night, so you can sleep soundly. If yours feels loose or keeps slipping out, give us a call. We’ll check the fit and make any adjustments it needs.
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I am wearing a store bought mouthguard, and it is not comfortable. What should I do?
Store-bought mouthguards can work in some situations, but they aren’t made to fit your teeth the way a custom guard is. If yours feels loose, uncomfortable, or isn’t doing its job, we can help. If you’ve been looking for a dentist near Laguna Hills or Ladera Ranch, our Mission Viejo office is close by. Call Oso Marguerite Dental to talk about a custom-fit option.
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Is a night guard the same as a TMJ splint?
Not quite, although they can look alike. A night guard mainly protects your teeth from the wear caused by grinding and clenching. A TMJ splint is designed to support your jaw joint, often by guiding your jaw into a more comfortable position to ease pain and tension. After an exam, we’ll help you understand which option fits your needs.
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How long does a custom mouthguard last?
With good care, a custom mouthguard often lasts a few years, though heavy grinding or frequent sports use can wear it down sooner. Growing kids and teens may need a new one as their mouths change. Rinse and brush your guard after each use, store it in its case, and keep it away from heat. Bring it to your checkups so we can make sure it still fits well and protects the way it should.
