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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Night Guards for Teeth Grinding in Pine Grove
Grinding at night can wear teeth and leave jaws sore. Pine Grove patients can learn how a night guard protects teeth, how it is fitted and how to keep it clean.
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A night guard puts a buffer between grinding teeth.
Many people grind or clench their teeth during sleep without knowing it. Over months and years, this can flatten biting surfaces, chip enamel, crack fillings and leave jaw muscles aching in the morning. A night guard is a removable appliance that covers the teeth and absorbs some of that force, helping protect them from further damage.
If a partner has heard you grinding, or you wake with a sore jaw, our Port Dover office can assess the signs for patients from Pine Grove. The dentist will explain whether a guard would help and what other steps may be worth considering.
Do you grind
Grinding often shows up in small clues.
What you may notice
Morning headaches near the temples, aching jaw muscles, tender teeth, a clicking jaw and interrupted sleep can all point toward night-time grinding. A bed partner may hear a grating sound. Some people notice their teeth look shorter or edges seem rough. Daytime clenching during concentration or stress is also common.
What a dentist may find
At an examination, the dentist may see flattened tooth surfaces, small cracks, chipped fillings, notches at the gumline or ridges on the cheeks and tongue. Comparing findings over time shows whether wear is getting worse. Recognizing grinding early helps protect teeth before significant damage occurs.
How a guard helps
Understand what to expect from a night guard.
What a guard does
A guard covers the biting surfaces so teeth grind against the appliance rather than each other. This helps protect enamel and restorations from wear and fracture. Many people also find that jaw tension in the morning eases, though results vary. A custom guard fits closely and tends to be more comfortable than ready-made versions.
What it may not do
A night guard does not necessarily stop grinding itself, and it is not designed to treat sleep apnea. If you snore loudly or feel unrefreshed after sleep, mention it, as the dentist may suggest speaking with your physician about a sleep assessment. Stress and lifestyle factors may also need attention.
Getting fitted
A custom guard usually takes two short visits.
Examination and impressions
The dentist examines your teeth and jaw, then takes impressions or a digital scan. These are used to make a guard shaped exactly to your teeth. Let the dentist know about any dental work planned soon, since new crowns or fillings can affect how the guard fits later.
Fitting and adjustment
When the guard is ready, it is tried in and adjusted so it seats firmly and feels even when you close. You will be shown how to place, remove and clean it. It may feel strange for a few nights, but most people adapt. Contact the office if it causes soreness.
Care
Keep your guard clean and check its condition.
Daily cleaning
Brush your teeth before wearing the guard. In the morning, rinse it, brush it gently with cool water and let it dry in a ventilated case. Avoid hot water, which can warp it, and keep it away from pets and direct heat. A clean guard is more comfortable and hygienic to wear.
Checkups and replacement
Bring the guard to your checkups so its fit and wear can be reviewed. Replace it if it cracks, develops holes or no longer fits snugly. Heavy grinders may wear through guards faster. If jaw pain increases or new symptoms appear, contact the office for advice.
Planning your appointment
Getting a guard made from Pine Grove
Book an examination at our Port Dover office and mention grinding, clenching or morning jaw soreness. The dentist will check for wear and explain whether a night guard is appropriate.
Bring any guard you have used before and note when symptoms are worst. Mention snoring or daytime tiredness for the dentist to consider.
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 grinding?
It may not stop the habit, but it protects your teeth from the damaging forces. Some people notice reduced jaw tension. Addressing stress, caffeine and sleep habits can also help reduce grinding over time.
Can I buy a night guard at the pharmacy?
Ready-made guards are available and may offer temporary protection. They are often bulkier and less stable. A custom guard is made to fit your teeth closely. The dentist can explain the differences.
How long will my night guard last?
It depends on how much you grind and the material used. Some last several years. Bring it to checkups so the dentist can assess wear and recommend replacement when needed.
Is it normal for my teeth to feel odd after wearing it?
A slight odd feeling in the morning can occur and usually fades within minutes. If your bite feels different for a long time or your jaw becomes more painful, contact the office.
Do children need night guards?
Children often grind, and it frequently resolves as they grow. Guards are not always recommended because their teeth are changing. The dentist will monitor wear and advise if protection is needed.
More grinding and jaw resources
General Dentistry →Custom Night Guards →
A custom night guard is shaped to your teeth to cushion clenching and grinding. Pine Grove patients can see how fitting, wear and guard care usually work.
Bruxism Treatment →
Waking with sore jaws or worn teeth? Pine Grove residents can learn how bruxism is assessed and managed, from night guards to habit changes, in Port Dover.