Custom Night Guard in Washington DC

What is a night guard for teeth grinding? A night guard is a custom-fitted dental appliance that prevents teeth from grinding or clenching while you sleep. At DC Dental Spa in Washington, DC, our night guards protect your enamel, relieve jaw tension, and promote better sleep comfort.

Bruxism can be treated with night guard teeth and dental splints.

Protect Your Smile While You Sleep

You might not even realize you’re grinding your teeth at night, but your jaw does. Over time, that pressure can wear down enamel, cause pain, and even lead to fractures or misalignment. We design custom night guards in Washington, DC to help you sleep comfortably while protecting your smile. Each guard is crafted to fit your unique bite, providing long-lasting comfort and relief from nighttime clenching and grinding.

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What is a Night Guard and Why It’s Important

A night guard is a clear, custom-made dental appliance that fits over your teeth to prevent them from grinding together. It acts as a protective cushion that absorbs tension and reduces pressure on your jaw joints.

Night guards are most often recommended for:

Bruxism (teeth grinding during sleep)
Clenching due to stress or tension
TMJ-related pain or discomfort
Frequent headaches or facial soreness

Unlike bulky, over-the-counter options, our custom night guards are designed with precision to feel secure and natural, so you can sleep soundly without worry.

Signs You May Need a Night Guard

Many people grind their teeth without realizing it until damage or discomfort appears. You might benefit from a night guard if you experience:

Morning jaw pain or stiffness
Frequent headaches or earaches
Chipped, cracked, or flattened teeth
Sensitive teeth or receding gums
Interrupted sleep or jaw clicking

If these symptoms sound familiar, schedule a consultation at DC Dental Spa. We’ll identify whether grinding, clenching, or TMJ dysfunction is behind your discomfort, and find the best solution for you.

Benefits of Wearing a Night Guard

A night guard is a simple yet powerful tool to protect your oral health and improve overall comfort.

Here’s how it helps:

Prevents tooth wear and fractures by absorbing grinding forces
Reduces headaches and jaw tension caused by clenching
Improves sleep quality by relaxing jaw muscles
Protects dental restorations like crowns and veneers
Supports long-term oral health by minimizing enamel damage

You’ll notice the difference within days, less pain, more comfort, and a healthier smile every morning.

Types of Night Guards Available

We offer different types of night guards to match your unique needs, grinding intensity, and comfort preferences.

Soft Night Guards

Perfect for mild grinding or first-time users, soft night guards are flexible, cushiony, and comfortable enough for nightly wear.

Dual-Layer (Hybrid) Night Guards

For moderate grinding, hybrid guards combine a soft inner layer for comfort with a hard outer layer for strength and protection.

Hard Acrylic Night Guards

If you have severe grinding or TMJ-related issues, hard night guards offer the strongest protection and the most precise fit.

Your dentist will help you choose the best option based on your symptoms and lifestyle.

Our Custom Night Guard Process

We make the process easy, personalized, and comfortable from start to finish.

Step 1: Consultation and Assessment

We begin with a comprehensive exam to evaluate your bite, jaw muscles, and teeth for signs of grinding or clenching.

Step 2: Digital Impressions

Using advanced 3D scanning technology, we take a precise digital model of your mouth, no messy molds or discomfort.

Step 3: Custom Fabrication

Your night guard is then crafted by our trusted dental lab using high-quality, BPA-free materials designed for durability and comfort.

Step 4: Fitting and Adjustments

Once ready, we ensure your night guard fits perfectly, make small adjustments if needed, and show you how to use and care for it properly.

Within a few days, you’ll have a comfortable, protective appliance that’s easy to wear every night.

Caring for Your Night Guard

Here’s how to keep it in great shape:

Rinse with cool water after each use

Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap

Avoid hot water (it can warp the material)

Store in a ventilated case when not in use

Bring it to your dental checkups for inspection and cleaning

With the right care, most guards last between 3–5 years, depending on your grinding habits.

Who Can Benefit from a Night Guard

A custom night guard is beneficial for:

Adults and teens with teeth grinding or clenching
Patients with TMJ pain or tension headaches
People with veneers, crowns, or implants to protect
Anyone waking up with jaw soreness or tooth sensitivity

Even if your symptoms are mild, early intervention can prevent more serious dental damage over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are night guards uncomfortable to wear?

Not at all. Our custom guards are designed for your exact bite, making them easy to wear after a short adjustment period.

Can I buy a night guard from the pharmacy instead?

Store-bought night guards often fit poorly and can cause irritation or uneven pressure. Custom guards from your dentist offer better protection and durability.

How long do night guards last?

With proper care, they typically last 3–5 years, though some patients may need replacements sooner if they grind heavily.

Do night guards help with TMJ pain?

Yes. By reducing muscle strain and jaw pressure, night guards can help relieve TMJ-related pain and stiffness.

Can a night guard stop snoring?

While not a snoring device, some custom guards can improve airflow by repositioning your jaw slightly. Your dentist can determine if this option is right for you.