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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Custom Night Guards in Villa Nova
A custom night guard is shaped to your bite to help shield teeth from grinding. Villa Nova patients can learn how fitting, adjustment and care work.
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Caring for Villa Nova patients at our Port Dover office
Every dental service for Villa NovaMade for your bite
A guard fitted to your teeth is easier to wear every night.
A custom night guard is an appliance made from a mould or scan of your teeth, designed to be worn during sleep. Its main purpose is to protect teeth from the wear and stress of grinding or clenching. Because it is shaped to your mouth, it tends to feel less bulky than generic options, which makes nightly wear more realistic.
Villa Nova residents can be assessed and fitted at our Port Dover office. Ask about the number of visits involved, as an impression appointment and a delivery appointment are usually needed, sometimes with a follow-up adjustment.
Do you need one
A guard is recommended when there is a clear reason.
Signs grinding is affecting teeth
Flattened or chipped teeth, recurring broken fillings, tender jaw muscles, morning headaches and a partner hearing grinding at night are common reasons the topic comes up. The dentist will look at wear patterns and ask about symptoms. If you are unsure whether you grind, describe how your jaw and teeth feel when you wake up.
Confirming the cause of jaw discomfort
Jaw pain can have several sources, and a guard is not the answer to every problem. The dentist may examine the joints and muscles and ask about clicking, locking or limited opening. If symptoms point toward something beyond grinding, further assessment or a different type of appliance may be discussed.
Design choices
The dentist selects a design suited to your mouth and habits.
Upper or lower, hard or soft
Guards can be made for the upper or lower teeth and in different materials, from firmer acrylic to softer layered options. The choice depends on your bite, the intensity of grinding, any jaw symptoms and comfort. Ask the dentist why a particular design is recommended, and what to expect in terms of thickness and feel.
How custom compares to store-bought
Pharmacy guards are cheaper but may fit loosely, feel bulky or shift during sleep. A poorly fitted guard can sometimes create new pressure points. A custom guard is fitted and adjusted to your bite. The dentist can explain whether the difference matters in your case.
Fitting process
A careful fitting helps the guard feel balanced.
Impressions or scans of your teeth
At the first visit, the team records the shape of your teeth and possibly your bite. If you have a strong gag reflex, mention it so the team can take steps to keep you comfortable. The guard is then fabricated, which may take some time before it is ready to be fitted.
Delivery and bite adjustment
At delivery, the dentist checks that the guard seats fully, does not pinch the gums and allows your teeth to meet evenly. Small adjustments are often made at this stage. You will receive instructions on wearing and cleaning the guard, and may be asked to return for a check after a few weeks of use.
Living with it
A short adjustment period is normal.
Adjusting to wearing a guard
The first few nights can feel strange. Some people notice extra saliva or mild pressure. These usually settle within a week or two. If your bite feels different in the morning for more than a short time after removing the guard, or if jaw pain increases, contact the office so the fit can be reviewed.
Cleaning, storing and checking it
Rinse and gently brush the guard each morning, then let it dry in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp some materials. Bring the guard to checkups so the dentist can look for cracks, wear and changes in fit. Guards wear over time and eventually need replacing.
Planning your appointment
Getting fitted from Villa Nova
Call our Port Dover office and mention grinding or a guard you would like replaced. The team can arrange an assessment and explain the fitting appointments.
Bring any current or old guard and note symptoms such as jaw soreness or morning headaches to discuss with the dentist.
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 long does a custom night guard last?
It depends on the material and how heavily you grind. Some last several years, others wear faster. Bring it to checkups so the dentist can assess its condition.
Can a night guard move my teeth?
A properly fitted guard should not move teeth. If your bite feels different for long periods after removing it, contact the office so the fit can be checked.
Is it normal to drool at first?
Extra saliva is common during the first few nights. It usually settles as your mouth adapts to the appliance.
Can I wear my guard with dental work like crowns?
Yes, guards can often help protect crowns and fillings. If you have new dental work, the guard may need adjustment or remaking to fit properly.
What if my guard cracks?
Stop using a cracked guard if it has sharp edges or no longer fits. Contact the office to arrange an assessment and possible replacement.
Related grinding and jaw care
Additional Services →Night Guards for Teeth Grinding →
Waking with a tight jaw or worn teeth? Villa Nova patients can learn whether a night guard is worth it and how one is fitted at our Port Dover family practice.
Bruxism Treatment →
Worn edges, sore jaw muscles or morning headaches? Villa Nova patients can have grinding and clenching assessed in Port Dover and discuss protective options.