Night Guards McMinnville, OR If you wake up with a sore jaw, tension headaches, or worn-down teeth, you may be dealing with bruxism, the medical term for chronic teeth grinding and clenching. At Hometown Dental, our dentist offers custom-fitted night guards designed to protect your smile and ease discomfort caused by grinding, clenching, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) related tension. Unlike generic mouthguards found at a drugstore, a custom night guard is built from an exact impression of your teeth, giving you a comfortable, secure fit that actually works while you sleep.What Causes Teeth Grinding?Teeth grinding often happens without you even realizing it, especially during sleep. Common causes include stress and anxiety, an uneven bite, missing or misaligned teeth, and sleep disorders. Over time, untreated grinding can wear down enamel, crack or chip teeth, and place ongoing strain on the jaw joint. Many patients do not realize they grind their teeth until a partner mentions the noise or until our dentist notices signs of wear during a routine exam. Signs You May Need a Night GuardIt is not always obvious that teeth grinding is affecting your oral health. During an exam, our dentist looks for physical signs, and patients often notice symptoms of their own as well.
If any of these sound familiar, it is worth scheduling an evaluation with our dentist to determine whether a night guard could help. How Night Guards Help With TMJ and GrindingA custom night guard creates a smooth, protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This cushion absorbs the pressure created by grinding and clenching, helping to prevent further wear on your enamel and reducing strain on the temporomandibular joint. For patients experiencing TMJ discomfort, a properly fitted night guard can help the jaw rest in a more relaxed position, which may ease tension in the surrounding muscles. Because every guard is custom-made to fit the unique contours of your bite, it stays in place comfortably throughout the night, unlike bulky over-the-counter mouthguards that can shift or feel awkward. What to Expect at Your AppointmentGetting a custom night guard starts with a conversation about your symptoms and an examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw. Our dentist will check for visible wear patterns, sensitivity, and any signs of TMJ involvement. If a night guard is recommended, we take a precise impression of your teeth, which is used to fabricate a guard that fits your bite exactly. Once your night guard is ready, we make sure it fits comfortably and adjust it as needed so it feels natural to wear. Protecting Your Smile for the Long TermLeft untreated, chronic teeth grinding can lead to more significant dental concerns over time, including cracked teeth, damaged dental work, and ongoing jaw discomfort. A custom night guard is a simple, proactive way to protect your enamel and support a healthier bite. Because it is designed specifically for your mouth, it offers better protection and comfort than a one-size-fits-all option, making it easier to wear consistently and get the full benefit. Our dentist also keeps an eye on your bite and jaw health during regular checkups, so if grinding patterns change over time, your night guard can be adjusted or replaced as needed. Addressing bruxism early can help you avoid more involved treatment down the road and protect the investment you have made in your smile. Schedule Your Night Guard Consultation TodayIf you are dealing with jaw pain, headaches, or signs of worn teeth, a custom night guard from Hometown Dental may be able to help. Contact our McMinnville, OR office today at 971-287-3477 to schedule a consultation with our dentist and find out if a custom night guard is right for you. |
 Phone971-287-3477 HoursMonday: 8:30AM - 4PM. Closed every other Monday. Tuesday: 8:30AM - 4PM Wednesday: 7:30AM - 3:30PM Thursday: 7:30AM - 3:30PM Friday: 7:30AM - 3PM. Closed every other Friday. |
