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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Custom Night Guards in Brantford
A custom night guard can protect teeth from grinding during sleep. See how Brantford patients are fitted in Port Dover and how many visits to plan for.
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Browse every dental service for Brantford patientsProtection while you sleep
A well-fitted guard takes the brunt of nighttime grinding.
A custom night guard is a thin appliance shaped to your teeth and worn during sleep. It places a protective layer between the upper and lower teeth, reducing wear from grinding and clenching. A guard is not a cure for bruxism, but it can help protect enamel and dental work while other contributing factors are addressed.
Brantford patients can be assessed and fitted for a custom guard at our Port Dover office. The dentist will confirm whether a guard suits your symptoms, explain the design options and outline the visits involved, so you know what to expect from impression to final adjustment.
Do you need one?
A guard is recommended after an assessment, not by default.
Signs a guard may help
Worn or chipped edges, morning jaw stiffness, tension headaches and reports of grinding noises at night are common reasons to consider a guard. The dentist examines wear patterns, jaw muscles and existing dental work, and asks about stress, sleep and medications. These findings help confirm whether grinding is likely and how much damage is occurring.
When to look for other causes
Loud snoring, gasping or daytime fatigue may point to a sleep-breathing issue that should be evaluated medically. Some guard designs could be less appropriate in that situation. Jaw pain, clicking or limited opening may also need a different approach. The dentist will explain if your symptoms suggest something beyond routine grinding.
Design options
Material and fit are chosen for your situation.
Hard, soft and dual-layer materials
Hard acrylic guards are durable and can be adjusted precisely, which suits heavier grinders. Softer or dual-layer guards may feel more comfortable for some people but can wear faster. The dentist will explain which material suits your bite, the forces involved and your comfort preferences, along with the expected lifespan of each type.
Upper or lower arch
Guards are usually made for either the upper or lower teeth. The choice depends on your bite, dental work, comfort and any other appliances you use. Mention whether you wear a retainer, have implants or plan orthodontic treatment, because each of these may influence how the guard is designed.
Getting fitted
Two visits typically cover the fitting process.
Impressions or digital scans
At the first appointment, the dentist takes impressions or scans and records your bite. These are sent to a dental laboratory where the guard is made. Ask how long fabrication usually takes so you can schedule the delivery visit. For Brantford patients, it may help to coordinate the fitting with a routine checkup.
Delivery and adjustment
At delivery, the dentist checks that the guard seats fully and that your bite feels even. Small adjustments are made in the chair. You will learn how to insert, remove and clean it. If it feels tight or causes soreness after a few nights, call so a further adjustment can be arranged.
Caring for the guard
Simple care keeps the guard hygienic and effective.
Daily cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard each morning and brush it gently with a soft brush and cool water. Avoid hot water and harsh cleaners, which can warp or damage the material. Store it dry in a ventilated case, away from pets, who often chew appliances. Brush and floss your teeth before inserting the guard each night.
Regular checks
Bring the guard to checkups so the dentist can examine it for wear, cracks and fit. Teeth and dental work change over time, and new fillings or crowns may require adjustments or a new guard. Replacing a worn guard before it fails helps keep your teeth protected without gaps in coverage.
Planning your appointment
Book a night guard assessment from Brantford.
Let our Port Dover team know about grinding signs, jaw discomfort or worn teeth. We will arrange an exam and explain whether impressions can be taken during the same visit.
Bring any previous guard you have used, even if it no longer fits, so the dentist can see how it wore.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Night guard questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Will a night guard stop me from grinding?
Usually not completely. It mainly protects teeth and dental work from grinding forces. Addressing stress, sleep habits and other factors may also help reduce how often or how hard you grind.
How long does a custom guard last?
It depends on material, how heavily you grind and how well it is cared for. Some last several years. Regular checkups help the dentist decide when a replacement is needed.
Is it normal for a new guard to feel tight?
Some snugness is normal at first. Persistent pressure, tooth soreness or jaw discomfort should be reported, as the dentist may need to adjust the guard for a more comfortable fit.
Can I use a guard from the pharmacy instead?
Over-the-counter guards may fit loosely and can be uncomfortable or bulky. A custom guard is shaped to your teeth and adjusted for your bite. The dentist can discuss the pros and cons.
What if I lose or break my guard?
Contact the office. If your teeth have not changed significantly, the existing records may be used for a replacement. Otherwise, new impressions may be needed for an accurate fit.
Related care for grinding and jaw strain
Additional Services →Night Guards for Teeth Grinding →
Waking with a sore jaw or worn teeth? Brantford patients can learn whether a night guard is the right first step and how to get used to wearing one each night.
Bruxism Treatment →
Grinding or clenching your teeth? Brantford patients can have wear, jaw tension and triggers assessed in Port Dover and talk through protective options.