Night Guards Near Arlington MA

Many Arlington, Massachusetts residents suffer from teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) at night without even realizing it. Over time, this unconscious habit can damage tooth enamel, cause jaw pain, headaches, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. A custom-fitted night guard (also known as a dental splint) provides a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. It prevents the teeth from rubbing together during sleep, thereby preserving enamel and relieving jaw strain.

At Arlington Dental and other local practices, experienced dentists offer custom night guards to fit each patient’s mouth. These small, clear appliances are comfortable to wear and virtually invisible when in place. As one Philadelphia dentist notes, night guards “fit securely around your teeth” and are made of clear plastic so they won’t draw attention. By choosing a personalized night guard in Arlington, MA, you protect your smile and improve sleep quality. In fact, using a night guard can save you thousands in future dental repairs by preventing chips, cracks, and enamel erosion.

If you have bruxism, Dr. Robert Page can recommend a night guard.  These special mouth guards protect your teeth and other oral structures against the damage caused by grinding your teeth while you sleep.  We invite you to call us at (781) 641-0500 to make your appointment with our dentists at Arlington Dental and learn more about night guards in Arlington,
Massachusetts.

What Are Night Guards and How Do They Work?

Night guards are custom or over-the-counter oral appliances worn over the teeth during sleep. They create a protective barrier between the upper and lower arches to stop the teeth from grinding against each other. Most night guards are made of durable acrylic or medical-grade plastic. Unlike sports mouthguards (which protect against impact), night guards are thinner and designed specifically to cushion the teeth from bruxism (nighttime grinding).

Night guards are sometimes called occlusal splints. In dentistry, these splints reduce strain on the jaw muscles and TMJ by ensuring the jaws rest in a relaxed position at night. By preventing the upper and lower teeth from meeting, night guards reduce pressure on the jaw joint. This helps prevent the muscle tension and headaches often associated with clenching. Essentially, a night guard “creates a barrier” so your teeth don’t damage each other. Over time, wearing a night guard trains your jaw to stay at a healthy distance and can even help retrain the bite in mild cases.

Why You Might Need a Night Guard

Patients typically need night guards due to bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) or related jaw issues. Up to 8–10% of adults experience sleep bruxism, though many don’t realize it until they develop symptoms. Common signs include waking up with a sore jaw or dull headache, hearing grinding sounds at night, worn tooth edges, or increased tooth sensitivity. An Arlington dentist can check for these signs (like flattened teeth) during an exam and recommend a night guard if needed.

Night guards are also recommended for TMJ disorders. TMJ issues arise when the jaw joint is inflamed or misaligned, causing pain around the ears, popping, or difficulty chewing. Nighttime teeth clenching often aggravates TMJ. A night guard allows the jaw muscles to relax and shifts the jaw to a neutral position, which can reduce TMJ pain and prevent headaches.

Moreover, some Arlington patients with mild sleep apnea or snoring can benefit from specific dental devices. While a standard night guard is for bruxism, there are oral appliances (mandibular advancement devices) that advance the lower jaw to open the airway during sleep. These are custom-made and different from typical night guards, but discussing sleep issues with a dentist may lead to an oral appliance that helps both grinding and mild apnea symptoms.

Benefits of Using a Night Guard

A properly fitted night guard offers many advantages for oral health and overall well-being:

• Protects Tooth Enamel and Restorations: By acting as a cushion, a night guard prevents the harsh enamel erosion and tooth fractures caused by grinding. It shields teeth (including crowns, veneers or fillings) from chipping or wearing down. One dentist notes night guards “help protect your teeth by easing pressure in the jaw”.

• Prevents Pain and Headaches: Regular clenching transmits stress to jaw muscles and nerves, leading to facial or neck pain and chronic headaches. Night guards interrupt this cycle. Studies show they can significantly reduce morning headaches and jaw soreness by keeping the jaw in a relaxed position.

• Reduces TMJ Strain: With a night guard, the jaw joints (TMJ) no longer bear extreme pressure at night. This relaxation of the joint can ease symptoms of TMJ disorder and prevent long-term complications.

• Enhances Sleep Quality: Many people with bruxism report restless sleep. By preventing grinding, night guards can lead to sounder sleep. As one dental practice notes, night guards may allow sufferers to “sleep more soundly” and wake feeling less fatigued.

• Cost Savings Over Time: Custom night guards are more expensive than store-bought options, but they can save you thousands of dollars in future dental bills. Treating chipped teeth, TMJ therapy, or root canals from untreated grinding adds up. In contrast, a night guard is a one-time investment that protects your long-term dental health.

• Improves Overall Health: Beyond teeth, chronic stress from grinding can affect general wellness. By mitigating bruxism, night guards may indirectly reduce stress-related issues and improve wellbeing. Though not a cure for stress itself, they break a cycle of stress–grinding–pain.

The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) both recognize the importance of mouthguards, including night guards, for oral health.

Types of Night Guards

Not all night guards are the same. Knowing the different types helps you choose the right one:

• Soft Night Guards (Acrylic/Plastic): Made of a pliable material, these are best for mild to moderate bruxism or patients who clench more than grind. They are very comfortable and easy to adapt to. However, heavy grinders may chew through soft guards quickly.

• Dual-Laminate Night Guards: These combine a soft inner lining with a hard outer shell. They provide a comfortable fit (soft inside) but can withstand harder clenching on the outside. They suit moderate-to-severe grinding and offer the “best of both worlds” in durability and comfort.

• Hard (Acrylic) Night Guards: Made of firm acrylic, these are very durable and best for severe bruxism. They last the longest under heavy force. Modern hard guards are still fairly comfortable, and their translucence makes them nearly invisible in the mouth. Dentists often recommend hard guards if you have crowns, TMJ issues, or night shifts in your bite.

• Over-the-Counter (Boil-and-Bite) Guards: These inexpensive guards are available at drugstores. You soften them in hot water and mold them to your teeth. While better than nothing, they often fit poorly and provide uneven protection. They can be less comfortable and may wear out quickly. In contrast, custom-fitted night guards are individually crafted from your dental impressions, ensuring precise fit and maximum protection.

• Sports Mouthguards vs Night Guards: It’s important not to confuse these. Sports mouthguards (for athletes) protect against trauma and are bulkier. Night guards are specifically designed for grinding. If you need both (e.g., you play contact sports and also grind), you may require two different guards.

• Braces-Compatible Guards: Specialized night guards can be made for patients with braces or dental work. They accommodate wires and brackets so you can still wear one safely during orthodontic treatment.

Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Night Guards

One key decision is whether to use a store-bought guard or get a custom one from a dentist:

• Custom Night Guards: Made by a dental lab from your dentist’s impression or 3D scan. These guards fit your teeth perfectly and are more durable. They are usually fabricated from high-quality acrylic or hard materials. Custom guards are tailored to your bite and any dental work (like crowns) you have. Because of their precise fit, they are more comfortable and effective in the long run. Many patients find they adapt quickly to a custom guard because it feels natural in the mouth.

• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Night Guards: These include boil-and-bite or one-size-fits-all guards. They cost much less (sometimes under $50) but often at the expense of fit. OTC guards may leave gaps or put uneven pressure, which can make grinding worse or cause new issues. Because they aren’t individually made, they can irritate gums and are more prone to breaking. As one dental expert explains, OTC guards “don’t always fit properly, and they can be uncomfortable… less durable” than custom guards.

• Cost Considerations: Custom guards can range from a few hundred to over $1,000 depending on complexity. Dental insurance often covers at least part of the cost if bruxism is diagnosed. OTC guards cost much less upfront but may need frequent replacement. In the long term, a quality custom guard can be more cost-effective because it lasts longer and protects dental work.

For the best results, most dentists—including Arlington-area dentists—recommend a custom-fitted night guard. Arlington Dental, for example, uses the latest technology to create precise night guards and addresses each patient’s unique needs. If cost is a concern, talk with your dental office about payment plans or partial insurance coverage. Remember, a night guard is an investment in preventing future dental damage.

Getting a Night Guard in Arlington, MA

If you suspect you grind your teeth, your first step is to consult an Arlington dentist. During a checkup, the dentist will examine your teeth and ask about symptoms like jaw pain or headaches. They may identify wear patterns or small cracks from bruxism.

Here’s what to expect when getting a night guard:

1. Dental Examination: Your dentist (e.g. at Arlington Dental or Arlington Smiles) will assess your oral health and confirm the need for a guard. They may take X-rays to rule out other issues.

2. Impressions or Digital Scan: The dentist takes impressions of your upper and/or lower teeth. This mold is sent to a lab where the custom guard is made. Some offices use digital scanners for a 3D model.

3. Lab Fabrication: A dental technician creates the night guard according to your impressions. This ensures a snug fit that matches your bite. (The process usually takes 1–2 weeks.)

4. Fitting Appointment: You return to the office for a fitting. The dentist checks the fit and makes any needed adjustments. They will ensure the guard feels comfortable and that your bite is correct with it in place.

5. Follow-Up: Over the next few weeks, you may have a follow-up to fine-tune the fit. Once comfortable, regular nightly use is recommended.

Arlington Dental’s office at 43 Broadway, for example, invites patients to schedule an appointment to discuss night guards. Their team will explain the process and answer any questions. Getting a night guard is painless and usually covered by routine dental appointments.

Caring for Your Night Guard

Proper care will extend your night guard’s life and keep it hygienic:

• Daily Cleaning: Rinse the night guard under cool water every morning. Use a soft toothbrush (separate from your tooth brush) and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste to gently clean it. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material.

• Brush Teeth First: Always brush and floss your teeth before inserting the night guard at night. This removes debris and prevents trapping food against your teeth.

• Storage: Store the guard in its rigid case (ventilated to allow drying). Keep it away from pets and out of reach of children.

• No Eating or Hot Drinks: Once the night guard is in your mouth, drink only water. Avoid hot liquids or chewing gum which could damage the guard.

• Avoid Heat and Sunlight: Do not leave the guard in a hot environment (e.g. direct sunlight or a hot car). High heat can alter its shape.

• Check Regularly: Inspect the guard for cracks or thinning. If it becomes deformed or uncomfortable, see your dentist for a replacement. Using a damaged guard can harm your teeth.

Following these steps helps your night guard last longer and stay effective. As one dental resource advises, “Patients should make sure to brush and floss before inserting the device… begin by rinsing the night guard, then brush the device using your toothbrush and toothpaste”. Clean it nightly and let it air-dry before storing. With proper care, a high-quality custom guard can last 1–5 years (longer for mild grinders).

People Also Ask

Q: What are night guards and how do they work?
A night guard is a removable mouthpiece worn during sleep to protect your teeth. Made of clear plastic or acrylic, it fits snugly over the teeth to prevent grinding and clenching. By creating a barrier, night guards stop the upper and lower teeth from contacting each other, reducing tooth wear and distributing bite force. Essentially, it cushions and absorbs the pressure of bruxism, protecting enamel and reducing jaw muscle strain.

Q: Why might I need a night guard?
If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching), your dentist will likely recommend a night guard. Symptoms like chronic headaches, jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, or flattened teeth all point to grinding. Night guards also help patients with TMJ issues by relaxing the jaw and aligning the bite. In some cases, mild sleep apnea patients receive special oral appliances that resemble night guards to open the airway. Talk to your Arlington dentist if you wake up sore or have dental pain at night – a night guard could be the solution.

Q: What are the different types of night guards?
There are soft, hard, and dual-laminate night guards. Soft guards (pliable rubber) suit mild grinders, while hard acrylic guards are for severe grinding. Dual-laminate guards combine a soft inside with a hard outside for moderate cases. An over-the-counter boil-and-bite guard is another type, but it is not custom-fitted and generally less effective. Your dentist will recommend the best type based on the severity of your grinding and any dental work you have.

Q: Why should I choose a custom-fitted night guard?
Custom guards, made by your dentist, are tailored exactly to your teeth. This precision fit makes them more comfortable, durable, and effective. Unlike one-size store guards, custom guards won’t slip or cause bite shifts. Dentists explain that custom night guards “are built to last” and accommodate braces or other appliances. They evenly distribute forces and prevent new issues. In short, a custom night guard from Arlington’s dental clinic will better protect your mouth than an inexpensive off-the-shelf model.

Q: How long do night guards last?
It varies by patient. On average, a well-made custom night guard lasts 1 to 5 years. For mild grinders, guards may last several years; for heavy grinders, around 6–12 months. Soft guards wear out faster under heavy grinding. Regular check-ups can detect wear early. If your guard develops holes or cracks, or you start feeling more discomfort, it’s time for a replacement.

Q: How do I clean and store my night guard?
Rinse it with cool water each morning, then gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste (or mild soap). Make sure it’s completely dry before placing it in its protective case (allowing it to air out). Never use hot water or harsh chemicals, as these can deform the guard. Always store the case in a safe, cool, and dry place.

Q: Can night guards help with TMJ or jaw pain?
Yes. Night guards keep your jaw in a relaxed position and prevent teeth from locking together under pressure. This reduces tension on the TMJ and jaw muscles. Many patients experience relief from jaw clenching and associated headaches by consistently wearing a night guard at night.

Q: Are over-the-counter night guards effective?
They can offer some protection but are generally inferior to custom guards. Over-the-counter (OTC) boil-and-bite guards often fit poorly and may move around. They may not last long under heavy grinding. Dentists caution that OTC guards “don’t always fit properly” and can even encourage more damage if ill-fitting. For best results, a custom-fitted guard made by a professional is recommended.

Q: How much does a night guard cost in Arlington, MA?
The cost depends on the type and where you get it. OTC guards are cheap (often $30–$100). A custom guard from an Arlington dentist typically ranges from $200 to $1,000. Many dental insurance plans will cover part of the cost if bruxism is diagnosed. Though pricier upfront, a custom guard is a worthwhile investment to avoid costly dental repairs later.

Q: Can children or teens use night guards?
If a dentist diagnoses a young patient with bruxism, a night guard can be made for them as well. However, children’s guards need frequent replacement as their teeth change. For teens with braces who grind, a special orthodontic night guard can be crafted to fit over wires. Always consult with a pediatric dentist to ensure safety and proper sizing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a night guard? Common signs are waking up with jaw soreness or headaches, and a dentist noticing flattened or cracked teeth from grinding. If you suspect bruxism, ask your Arlington dentist for an evaluation.

How long should I wear the night guard each day? Generally, night guards are worn only while sleeping. Consistent nightly use is advised for full protection.

Can I wear a night guard on my lower teeth? Most dentists fit night guards on the upper teeth. A upper-arch guard is usually sufficient. Your dentist will advise if a lower one is needed for your bite.

Will wearing a night guard stop snoring? Not usually. Night guards protect teeth but do not reposition the jaw forward. Snoring is better addressed with specific sleep apnea devices or lifestyle changes. However, reducing teeth grinding can improve overall sleep.

How tight should a night guard fit? It should fit snugly without forcing your teeth apart. You should be able to bite normally with it in place. If it feels too tight or causes pain, contact your dentist for an adjustment.

Can night guards shift my teeth? No. A well-made night guard should not move teeth. It simply provides a cushion. If you notice tooth movement, remove the guard and consult your dentist.

Are night guards covered by insurance? Many dental plans cover at least a portion of a night guard if it’s deemed medically necessary (bruxism diagnosis). Coverage varies; check with your provider. Even if not fully covered, flexible spending accounts (FSA) often cover night guards.

What if I lose or break my night guard? Contact your dentist promptly. It’s important to replace it as soon as possible. The dentist can order a new one or make a quick reline if only the fit changed.

Do night guards hurt? Initially, a new night guard may feel awkward, but it should not cause significant pain. It often takes a few nights to adapt. If it causes severe discomfort, call your dentist – it may need adjustment.

Can I use toothpaste to clean my night guard? Yes, a non-abrasive toothpaste or gentle soap works well. Avoid harsh whitening agents or alcohol-based solutions as they can degrade the material.

Conclusion

In summary, night guards are a simple yet powerful solution for protecting your teeth in Arlington, MA. They shield your smile from the harmful effects of grinding and clenching while you sleep. By using a custom night guard, you prevent costly dental damage, reduce jaw pain, and even improve sleep quality. Residents looking for relief from bruxism or TMJ symptoms should consult their Arlington dentist. For example, the team at Arlington Dental is ready to fit you with a custom night guard suited to your needs. If you’re looking for quality dental care in Arlington MA, at Arlington Dental, 43 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474. (781) 641-0500.