Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep
A custom nightguard is a smooth appliance you wear over your teeth at bedtime. It takes the pressure of grinding and clenching, so your enamel and dental work stay protected. Each guard is shaped from a digital scan of your teeth for a close, comfortable fit.
Strong Enamel, Lasting Dental Work
Every night of grinding wears away a little enamel, and enamel can't grow back. A nightguard places a smooth layer between your upper and lower teeth, so the guard absorbs the friction your teeth would otherwise take. That helps your fillings, crowns, and bridges stay in good shape longer. Protecting what you have today can mean fewer repairs and lower dental costs over the years.
Easier Mornings for Your Jaw
Clenching keeps your jaw muscles working for hours while you sleep. A nightguard gives those muscles a cushioned, even surface to rest against, which can ease the pressure on your jaw. Many patients notice less morning stiffness and fewer headaches near the temples once they wear their guard every night. Results vary from person to person, and your dentist will check in on how you're feeling.
A Fit Built From Your Scan
Your guard starts with a digital scan, a quick, contact-free way to capture a 3D model of your teeth and bite. There are no trays or impression putty, which patients with a sensitive gag reflex really appreciate. Because your guard is made from that model, it hugs your teeth closely. A comfortable guard is one you'll keep wearing night after night.
What Years of Grinding Cause
Grinding and clenching, a habit dentists call bruxism, usually happens during sleep, so many people have no idea they do it. Over months and years, that steady pressure can lead to:
- Flattened, shorter-looking teeth. Biting edges wear down slowly, and worn teeth often feel more sensitive to hot and cold.
- Cracks and broken dental work. Repeated force can create small cracks in teeth and wear down fillings and crowns, which may then need repair.
- Tired, sore jaw muscles. Muscles that clench all night can feel tight and achy by the time you wake up.
As a new patient, your complimentary digital scan gives us a starting point. At later visits, scan overlay lets us compare new scans against it to spot early wear, so a simple nightguard can go to work before bigger repairs are needed.
Clues You Clench at Night
Since grinding happens while you sleep, the signs usually show up in the morning or at your dental visit. A nightguard may help if you notice:
- Jaw soreness when you wake up. Tired jaw muscles are often a sign they've been working hard overnight.
- Dull headaches near your temples. Clenching uses the muscles along the sides of your head, which can leave an ache that greets you at breakfast.
- Teeth that look flat or chipped at the edges. Worn biting edges are one of the clearest signs of grinding.
- New sensitivity to cold drinks. When enamel wears thin, the layer underneath can react to temperature.
- A partner who hears grinding. The person beside you is often the first to notice the sound.
- Fillings or crowns that keep breaking. Dental work that wears out early can point to extra force on your teeth.
If jaw pain is a big part of what you're feeling, TMJ treatment options are also available at The Dental Manor.
We've got you covered
We work with all providers and follow Ontario's fee guide at both locations, so there are never any surprise costs. Give us a call or book online and we'll happily sort out the details with you.
Your Nightguard, Step by Step
Most patients receive their guard over two short visits, depending on their case.
Talk Through Your Symptoms
Tell us what you've noticed, from a sore jaw to a chipped tooth. Your dentist checks your teeth, gums, and bite, then explains whether a nightguard suits your needs. You set the pace, and every question is welcome.
Your Digital Scan
A small wand captures a 3D model of your teeth and bite while you relax in the chair. You can watch your model take shape on the screen as we go.
Your Guard Is Crafted
Your nightguard is made from your digital model to match the shape of your teeth and the way they meet. Our team will call when it's ready for you.
Fitting and Fine-Tuning
We place the guard, check how your bite meets it, and make small adjustments for comfort. Before you leave, we'll show you how to clean it and store it in its case.
Follow-Up at Your Checkups
Bring your guard to your regular visits. We'll check the fit, look for wear, and let you know when it's time for a new one.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if I grind my teeth in my sleep?
Will a nightguard stop me from grinding?
Will a nightguard feel bulky in my mouth?
How is a custom nightguard different from a drugstore guard?
Does the digital scan hurt?
Can a nightguard help with morning headaches?
Can I wear a nightguard if I have crowns or fillings?
How do I clean my nightguard?
How long does a nightguard last?
Is a nightguard covered by insurance?
We would love to meet you
Whether you're looking for a new dental home, coming back after a while away, or just finally ready to book that appointment, we're here, and we'd love to welcome you. New patients are always welcome at both locations. Book online or give us a call, we'll take great care of you.