At Thrive Dental & Orthodontics, we offer custom dental mouth guards and night guards designed to fit comfortably, protect your teeth, and support your long-term oral health.
From high-impact sports to nightly teeth grinding, these simple tools can help prevent serious dental issues—and save you from discomfort or costly repairs down the road.
Why You Might Need a Dental Guard
Mouthguards and night guards serve two different but equally important purposes. Depending on your needs, your Thrive dentist will recommend the right fit and material for your lifestyle.
Mouthguards: Protection for Active Lifestyles
When to Use: During contact sports or physical activities that risk dental injury.
Custom dental mouth guards act as a cushion for your teeth, jaw, and soft tissues during high-impact sports like football, hockey, boxing, or basketball. Unlike store-bought versions, custom guards are made from a mold of your mouth—offering a snug, comfortable fit that won’t interfere with breathing or speech.
Benefits of Mouthguards:
- Prevent chipped or broken teeth
- Reduce risk of jaw injuries and concussions
- Protect lips, cheeks, and tongue from impact
Whether your child plays youth soccer or you’re part of an adult league, a professionally fitted mouthguard is one of the best ways to protect your smile.
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Nightguards: Relief from Grinding and Clenching
When to Use: While sleeping, especially if you experience bruxism (teeth grinding), clenching, or TMJ-related discomfort.
Night guards are thin, durable devices worn while you sleep to protect your teeth and reduce tension in the jaw. Over time, bruxism can lead to worn enamel, tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, headaches, and even cracked teeth. Night guards create a buffer between your teeth and help relax the muscles involved in clenching.
Types of Dental Night Guards:
- Soft Nightguards: Great for mild cases of grinding; flexible and comfortable.
- Hard Nightguards: Durable and ideal for moderate to severe grinding or TMJ issues.
- Custom Nightguards: Created from impressions of your teeth for an exact fit and maximum protection.
We’ll help determine which type is best for your unique needs and comfort level.
Benefits of Custom Dental Mouth and Night Guards
While over-the-counter options exist, only custom dental mouth guards and night guards offer:
- A precise fit tailored to your bite
- Better comfort and wearability
- Longer-lasting protection
- Improved sleep quality (for night guard users)
- Enhanced performance and focus (for athletes)
According to the American Dental Association, custom-fitted guards are more effective at preventing sports injuries and protecting against the harmful effects of teeth grinding than store-bought models (ADA source).
What to Expect at Your Fitting
Getting a custom dental guard at Thrive is simple:
- We take precise digital or physical impressions of your teeth.
- Your guard is fabricated in a dental lab using high-quality materials.
- Once it’s ready, we ensure a perfect fit and show you how to use and care for it.
The process is quick, comfortable, and can often be completed in just two visits.
What’s the difference between a mouthguard and a nightguard?
A mouthguard is used during physical activity to protect your teeth, jaw, and soft tissues from injury—ideal for sports like football, basketball, or martial arts. A nightguard is worn while sleeping to prevent damage from grinding (bruxism) or clenching. Both play a vital role in preserving your oral health, just in different settings.
Is a custom dental mouth guard better for kids who play sports?
Absolutely. Kids are especially prone to sports-related dental injuries, and a custom dental mouth guard offers better fit, comfort, and protection than store-bought versions. Plus, they’re more likely to wear a guard that feels good and doesn’t interfere with breathing or talking. We treat kids of all ages and tailor mouthguards for their growing smiles.
Can a nightguard help with jaw pain or TMJ issues?
Yes. If you’re waking up with jaw discomfort, headaches, or stiffness, a night guard dental appliance can help relieve pressure, reduce clenching, and protect your teeth from damage. For patients with TMJ symptoms, a hard nightguard may offer more targeted support.
How do I care for my mouthguard or nightguard?
Rinse it after each use and brush it gently with a toothbrush and cool water. Store it in a ventilated case to allow it to dry completely. Avoid exposing it to heat or sunlight, as that can warp the shape. Bring your guard to your checkups so we can inspect it and make sure it’s still in good condition.
Can adults benefit from a nightguard even if they don’t grind their teeth often?
Yes—clenching, even without grinding, can still cause tension headaches, jaw soreness, and wear on your teeth over time. A custom nightguard creates a cushion that protects your teeth and encourages your jaw muscles to relax during sleep.
Are mouthguards and nightguards covered by insurance?
Nightguards may be partially covered if medically necessary and prescribed to treat grinding or TMJ issues. Mouthguards used for sports are often considered elective and may not be covered. Our front office team is happy to verify your benefits and explain payment or financing options available at Thrive.
