If you experience soreness in your jaw, you may be grinding your teeth at night. If so, Dr. Tim Hung offers night guards in Woodinville, Washington, to help cushion your teeth and prevent unnecessary damage. This easy oral appliance is completely removable and helps give you peace of mind while you sleep. Call our office at (425) 486-9245 to learn more and schedule an appointment with our dentist at Oasis Family Dentistry.

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Night guards are usually recommended for patients who suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding, at night. Most patients do not realize they suffer from bruxism, which often leads to damaged or sensitive teeth. Our friendly dentist can help diagnose this condition and recommend treatment to help mitigate it, such as a night guard, which is an oral appliance worn at night. If you are unsure if you have bruxism, some symptoms of teeth grinding or clenching include:

  • Severe soreness in the jaw, face or ear
  • The muscles in your jaw feeling tired once you wake up
  • Tension headaches or migraines
  • Chipped, flat or cracked teeth
  • Excessively worn tooth enamel
  • Tongue indentations from your teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity

Night guards are custom oral appliances that match your bite and fit comfortably over your teeth for a nonintrusive solution while you sleep. They protect your teeth from grinding against each other and help relieve the symptoms experienced by those with bruxism.

If you have been experiencing tooth and jaw discomfort after waking, give our office a call to schedule a consultation with our dentist. We are committed to helping your smile stay healthy and giving you the best possible care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Night Guards in Woodinville

What is a night guard and who needs one?

A night guard is a custom-fitted oral appliance worn during sleep to protect teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching). Patients who grind or clench their teeth at night often experience worn enamel, cracked teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. At Oasis Family Dentistry, we create custom night guards that fit comfortably and provide superior protection compared to over-the-counter options.

How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?

Common signs of nighttime teeth grinding include waking up with jaw soreness or headaches, tooth sensitivity, flattened or chipped teeth, and a partner reporting grinding sounds during sleep. Our team can identify signs of bruxism during your dental exam and recommend treatment.

What is the difference between a custom night guard and a store-bought one?

Custom night guards from Oasis Family Dentistry are fabricated from precise impressions of your teeth, ensuring an exact fit that is comfortable, effective, and durable. Over-the-counter guards are made for a general tooth size and are often bulky, uncomfortable, and less effective at preventing damage. A custom guard is always the preferred option for long-term protection.

How long does it take to get a custom night guard?

After taking impressions or a digital scan of your teeth, your custom night guard is typically fabricated within one to two weeks. You’ll return to Oasis Family Dentistry for a fitting appointment to ensure proper comfort before taking it home.

How long does a night guard last?

The lifespan of a night guard depends on the severity of your grinding. Most custom night guards last three to five years with proper care. Our team will monitor your night guard at each visit and let you know when it’s time for a replacement.

Can a night guard help with TMJ pain?

Yes. Night guards are often recommended as part of managing TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. By reducing clenching and grinding forces on the jaw joint, a night guard can significantly relieve TMJ-related pain, headaches, and facial muscle tension.

Is a night guard covered by dental insurance?

Many dental and medical insurance plans cover custom night guards, especially when bruxism is causing damage to the teeth or jaw. Our team at Oasis Family Dentistry will help verify your benefits and explore financial options. Call us at (425) 486-9245 to get started.