Custom Night Guards in Southwest Houston
If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or sore teeth, you may be grinding or clenching your teeth at night — a condition known as bruxism. Left untreated, this habit can lead to worn enamel, broken teeth, and chronic discomfort. At Griffith Dental Associates, we offer custom night guards that protect your teeth while you sleep and help relieve related symptoms.
Our dental office in Fondren Southwest provides personalized bruxism solutions to patients in Sharpstown, Bellaire, Gulfton, and across Southwest Houston. With a focus on prevention and long-term comfort, we’ll help you protect your smile and preserve your dental health.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a removable oral appliance worn while you sleep. It acts as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other. Custom night guards are molded to fit your mouth precisely, offering superior comfort and protection compared to store-bought options.
You may benefit from a night guard if you experience:
- Teeth grinding or clenching during sleep
- Morning jaw pain or stiffness
- Chronic headaches, especially near the temples
- Cracked, worn, or flattened teeth
- Popping or discomfort in the jaw joint (TMJ)
Learn more about symptoms of bruxism and treatment options on our Bruxism Treatment page.
Why Choose a Custom Night Guard?
At Griffith Dental Associates, we fabricate night guards that are tailored to your unique bite and jaw alignment. Compared to over-the-counter versions, custom night guards offer:
- A more precise, comfortable fit
- Greater durability and longer lifespan
- Better retention throughout the night
- Reduced risk of jaw strain or irritation
- Enhanced protection for dental work such as fillings and crowns
Our guards are made from high-quality materials that are safe, non-bulky, and easy to clean.
What to Expect
Getting a custom night guard is simple and non-invasive:
- Consultation and evaluation – We examine your teeth, jaw, and bite to determine if a night guard is appropriate.
- Impressions or digital scan – We take molds or digital impressions of your teeth to ensure a perfect fit.
- Fabrication – Your night guard is crafted in a dental lab to meet your specific needs.
- Fitting – When it’s ready, we check the fit and make any necessary adjustments for comfort.
We’ll also provide instructions on how to care for your guard and when to replace it.
Frequently Asked Questions
We focus on prevention, whole-person wellness, and long-term relationships. Our care is designed to support not just oral health, but overall well-being.
Still have questions?
Can I use a store-bought night guard?
Over-the-counter guards are often bulky, uncomfortable, and not tailored to your bite. Custom night guards offer significantly better comfort, protection, and long-term value.
How long does a custom night guard last?
With proper care, a night guard can last several years. We’ll evaluate the condition of your appliance during regular checkups.
Can a night guard help with TMJ pain?
Yes. For many patients, a night guard reduces stress on the jaw joint and alleviates symptoms like clicking, popping, and pain associated with TMJ dysfunction.
Will insurance cover a custom night guard?
Many PPO dental plans offer partial coverage for night guards when medically necessary. We’ll verify your benefits and provide an estimate before proceeding.
Can children or teens use night guards?
Yes. Night guards can be made for younger patients who grind their teeth. However, we may recommend different solutions depending on age and dental development.
Protect Your Smile While You Sleep
If you’re grinding your teeth or dealing with jaw discomfort, a custom night guard may be the key to relief. At Griffith Dental Associates, we’re here to help you protect your smile and sleep more comfortably.
Call us at (713) 523-1666 or request an appointment online. We proudly serve Fondren Southwest, Sharpstown, Bellaire, and surrounding Southwest Houston communities.