Custom Night Guards in Woodinville, WA
If you wake up with a sore jaw, headaches, or tender teeth, you may be grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep. At Oasis Family Dentistry, Dr. Tim Hung creates custom night guards that cushion your teeth, relieve pressure on your jaw, and prevent costly damage. Comfortable and completely removable, a night guard gives you peace of mind while you rest. Call (425) 486-9245 to schedule your appointment.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-fitted oral appliance worn over your teeth while you sleep. It creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding and clenching so your enamel, restorations, and jaw joints are protected. Night guards are most often recommended for patients with bruxism, a condition many people have without realizing it.
Signs You May Need a Night Guard
- Soreness in the jaw, face, or ears, especially in the morning
- Jaw muscles that feel tired when you wake up
- Tension headaches or migraines
- Chipped, flattened, or cracked teeth
- Excessively worn enamel or increased tooth sensitivity
- Indentations on your tongue from your teeth
- A partner noticing grinding sounds at night
- Damaged crowns, fillings, or veneers
Why Choose a Custom Night Guard?
Store-bought night guards are bulky, one-size-fits-all devices that often fit poorly, fall out during the night, and wear through quickly. A custom night guard from our office is made from a precise digital model of your teeth captured with iTero® digital scanning. The result is a thinner, more comfortable, and more durable appliance that stays in place and protects your teeth more effectively.
The Process
During your exam, Dr. Hung looks for wear patterns and other signs of grinding, often using our intraoral camera to show you the damage. If a night guard is recommended, we take a quick digital scan of your teeth. Your custom guard is fabricated by a dental lab, and at a follow-up visit we check the fit and make any adjustments.
Caring for Your Night Guard
Rinse your guard after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush, and store it in its protective case. Keep it away from heat and pets. Bring it with you to your regular checkups so we can make sure it still fits well.
Protecting Your Investment
Grinding can undo years of dental work in a short time. A night guard is especially important if you’ve invested in dental implants, veneers, or a smile makeover. For athletes, we also offer custom sports mouth guards designed for daytime protection. Explore our family dentistry services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Night Guards in Woodinville
How do I know if I need a night guard?
Common signs include morning jaw soreness, headaches, worn or chipped teeth, and sensitivity. Dr. Hung can confirm whether you’re grinding during an exam.
Are custom night guards comfortable?
Yes. Because they’re made from a precise scan of your teeth, custom guards are thinner and fit more comfortably than store-bought options.
How long does a night guard last?
With proper care, a custom night guard typically lasts several years. Patients who grind heavily may need replacements sooner.
Can a night guard stop teeth grinding?
A night guard doesn’t stop grinding itself, but it prevents damage to your teeth and reduces strain on your jaw muscles.
What’s the difference between a night guard and a sports guard?
A night guard protects teeth from grinding during sleep, while a sports mouth guard is thicker and designed to absorb impact during physical activity.
How do I clean my night guard?
Rinse it after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, and store it in its case.
Does insurance cover night guards?
Some dental insurance plans cover night guards when grinding is diagnosed. Our team will check your benefits.
Protect Your Smile While You Sleep
Wake up without jaw pain or worn teeth. Call Oasis Family Dentistry at (425) 486-9245 or request an appointment online for a custom night guard.