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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Custom Night Guards in Teeterville
A night guard built from your own bite can protect teeth from clenching. Teeterville patients can learn how guards are made, fitted and kept in good condition.
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Browse every dental service for TeetervilleMade to your bite
A guard that fits well is one you will actually wear.
A custom night guard is a thin appliance shaped to your upper or lower teeth and worn while you sleep. It places a protective layer between the teeth, which can reduce wear from clenching and grinding and help protect fillings, crowns and veneers. A good fit makes it more comfortable and less likely to fall out overnight.
Teeterville patients can be assessed and fitted at our Port Dover office. The dentist will check your teeth and jaw, confirm whether a guard is appropriate and explain the type of appliance that suits your bite and symptoms, along with how many visits the process usually takes.
Why a guard
Guards are mainly about protection.
Signs of night-time grinding
Worn or flattened teeth, morning jaw tightness, headaches near the temples and a partner hearing grinding at night are common reasons to consider a guard. The dentist may also notice small cracks or chips during a checkup. Discussing these signs openly helps determine whether a guard would be useful in your case or whether something else is going on.
Protecting dental work
If you have invested in crowns, veneers or large fillings, a guard can help shield them from heavy forces. It does not usually stop grinding altogether, but it takes much of the strain that would otherwise fall on your teeth. The dentist may also suggest looking at contributing factors such as stress, caffeine or sleep quality.
Making the guard
The process starts with an accurate record of your teeth.
Impressions or digital scans
The dentist or assistant takes impressions or a scan of your teeth and records how your jaws meet. This information is used to make a guard that sits evenly and does not tip your bite. Ask how long fabrication will take so you know when to plan the fitting appointment from Teeterville and can fit it around work.
Choosing the material and design
Guards may be hard, soft or a combination, and can be made for the upper or lower teeth. The choice depends on your bite, the severity of grinding and any jaw symptoms you have. The dentist will explain why a particular design is recommended, how it is expected to feel and how long it typically lasts.
Fitting and adjusting
A short fitting appointment refines the guard.
Checking comfort and bite
At the fitting, the dentist checks that the guard seats fully, is not too tight and lets your teeth touch evenly. Small adjustments are often made at this stage. Tell the team if anything pinches, rubs your gums or makes your jaw feel strained when you bite down, because these details are easy to fix while you are still in the chair.
Getting used to wearing it
It can take a few nights to get used to sleeping with a guard. Some people notice extra saliva or mild tooth pressure at first. If your jaw is sore in the morning or the guard feels loose, contact the office instead of trimming it yourself. A minor adjustment can usually solve the issue in a short visit.
Looking after it
Clean, dry storage extends the life of the guard.
Daily cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard each morning and brush it gently with a soft brush and cool water. Let it air-dry and store it in its ventilated case. Keep it away from hot water, direct sunlight and pets, since heat can distort it and dogs often find guards irresistible to chew. A clean case matters as much as a clean guard.
Checking for wear
Bring your guard to checkups so the dentist can look for cracks, thinning or changes in fit. Heavy grinders may wear through a guard over time and need a replacement. If new dental work changes your bite, the guard may need adjusting or remaking to fit properly, so mention any crowns or fillings being planned.
Planning your appointment
Ordering a night guard from Teeterville.
Call our Port Dover office and mention jaw soreness, worn teeth or grinding you have noticed. The team can book an exam and, if appropriate, the impression or scan appointment.
If you have an older guard, bring it along so the dentist can compare fit and see how much it has worn over time.
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.
How is a custom guard different from a store-bought one?
A custom guard is made from a precise record of your teeth and bite, so it usually fits better and can be thinner. Store-bought guards may be bulky or loose and may not distribute forces evenly, which some people find uncomfortable over a full night.
Upper or lower guard: which is better?
Both can work well. The choice depends on your bite, any missing teeth, existing restorations and personal comfort. The dentist will recommend the design that suits your situation and explain the reasons behind that choice.
How long does a night guard last?
It varies with the material and how heavily you grind. Some last several years, while others wear faster. Having it checked at regular visits helps you know when replacement is needed before the guard wears through.
Can a night guard help jaw pain?
Some people find a guard eases morning muscle soreness by reducing clenching forces. Persistent jaw joint pain may need further assessment, and the dentist can discuss other options, such as exercises or referral, if symptoms continue.
Should I wear it during the day?
Most guards are designed for sleep. If you clench during the day, the dentist may suggest awareness techniques or, in some cases, a different appliance. Ask before wearing your guard beyond the recommended times each day.
Grinding and jaw care
Additional Services →Night Guards for Teeth Grinding →
Night grinding can wear and crack teeth. Teeterville patients can learn how grinding is confirmed and how a night guard is chosen, fitted and maintained.
Bruxism Treatment →
Sore jaw or flattened teeth? Teeterville patients can learn how clenching and grinding are assessed and which protective options the dentist may discuss.