Patient video
Welcoming and Wonderful Practice
A patient shares the welcoming atmosphere and positive experience they found at our Port Dover office.
★★★★★
Port Dover Family Dentistry
Night Guards for Teeth Grinding in Wilsonville
Grinding at night can wear enamel and crack fillings. Wilsonville patients can find out whether a protective night guard makes sense at our Port Dover office.
New patients welcomeCDCP accepted
Let’s get you smiling
Book an appointment
Tell us how we can help. Our team will follow up to confirm a time.
Caring for Wilsonville patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WilsonvilleProtection while you sleep
Grinding you cannot control can still be managed.
Grinding often happens during sleep, so many people do not realize they do it until teeth begin to show wear or a family member mentions the sound. Over time, grinding can flatten biting surfaces, chip edges, loosen fillings and make jaw muscles sore. A night guard adds a protective layer that absorbs some of these forces while you sleep.
Concerned that you are grinding at night? Wilsonville residents can have their teeth checked at our Port Dover office. The dentist will look for signs of wear and talk about your symptoms before suggesting whether a night guard, other approaches or a referral for sleep concerns would be helpful.
Is it grinding?
Grinding leaves clues even when you are asleep.
Symptoms you might notice
Morning headaches, a tight or tired jaw, sore teeth, sensitivity to cold and difficulty opening wide are common symptoms. Some people wake with a clenched jaw or notice their teeth feel different. A partner may hear grinding sounds. Keep track of when symptoms are worst to share with the dentist.
What the dentist may see
During an exam, the dentist may notice flattened or worn edges, small fractures in enamel, damaged fillings, receding gums near the necks of teeth and enlarged jaw muscles. These signs help confirm grinding. Comparing findings with earlier records shows whether wear is ongoing.
Guard options
Fit and comfort affect how well a guard works.
Custom-made guards
A custom guard is made from impressions or a scan of your teeth, so it fits closely and evenly. Many people find it more comfortable and less bulky than other options. The dentist can adjust it to balance your bite and make sure it does not cause new jaw problems.
Store-bought guards
Over-the-counter guards are available in stores and may provide some protection. However, they may fit loosely, feel bulky or shift during sleep. Some people find them hard to wear consistently. Discuss with your dentist whether a store-bought guard is reasonable for your situation.
Getting used to it
A short adjustment period is normal.
The first nights
The guard may feel strange at first, and you might produce extra saliva or notice slight pressure. These sensations usually fade within days. If the guard causes pain, makes your bite feel very different in the morning or will not stay in place, contact the office for an adjustment.
Making it a habit
Wear the guard every night so the protection is consistent. Keep it next to your toothbrush or bed as a reminder. If you notice clenching during the day, try to keep teeth slightly apart when relaxed. Managing stress and limiting caffeine in the evening may also help.
Care and review
A clean, well-fitting guard protects best.
Cleaning your guard
Rinse your guard after each use and brush it gently with a soft brush and mild soap. Avoid hot water, which can warp it. Allow it to dry and store it in a ventilated case. Keep it away from pets. Do not use toothpaste, which can scratch the surface.
When to replace it
Bring your guard to checkups so the dentist can check its fit and look for wear or cracks. Heavy grinders may wear through guards faster. New fillings, crowns or tooth movement can affect fit. The dentist will advise when a replacement is needed.
Planning your appointment
Checking for grinding from Wilsonville.
Book an exam at our Port Dover office and describe your symptoms. The dentist will check for signs of grinding and discuss whether a night guard or another approach would help.
Bring any guard you currently use and mention snoring or daytime tiredness, which might suggest a sleep issue worth discussing with your doctor.
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.
Do I need a night guard if my teeth do not hurt?
Grinding can damage teeth even without pain. If the dentist sees wear or other signs, a guard may be recommended to protect your teeth over the long term.
Will a night guard stop grinding?
A guard mainly protects your teeth from damage. It may not stop the habit. Other strategies may help reduce grinding, depending on the cause.
Is it normal for my jaw to feel different in the morning?
Some people feel slight changes at first. If your bite feels off for long periods or you have jaw pain, contact the office to have the guard checked.
Can children wear night guards?
Children’s jaws and teeth are still growing, so guards are used less often. Mention grinding at your child’s checkup so the dentist can advise.
How long does a night guard last?
It depends on how much you grind and how the guard is cared for. Regular checkups help determine when it needs repair or replacement.
Custom appliances and bruxism care
General Dentistry →Custom Night Guards →
A custom night guard is shaped to your teeth to cushion grinding during sleep. Wilsonville patients can learn about fit, care and reviews at our Port Dover office.
Bruxism Treatment →
Worn edges, morning jaw ache or a partner hearing you grind? Wilsonville patients can have clenching and grinding assessed at our Port Dover dental office.