Custom Night Guards in San Francisco
If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth, you may be grinding or clenching at night. At Financial District Dentistry, we create custom night guards for patients throughout San Francisco, CA to protect their smiles while they sleep.
What Is a Dental Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-fit oral appliance worn during sleep to protect your teeth from the force of grinding and clenching, a condition known as bruxism. Common signs you may need one include jaw soreness, morning headaches, and visible wear on your teeth.
Why Teeth Grinding Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Left untreated, bruxism can lead to worn or cracked teeth, jaw pain, and TMJ-related symptoms over time. A custom night guard helps protect your teeth from this ongoing damage, even if it doesn’t stop the grinding habit itself.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Night Guards
Store-bought guards are a one-size-fits-all option, which often means a bulkier, less comfortable fit. A custom night guard is made specifically for your teeth and bite, offering better comfort, fit, and protection — which is why the ADA recommends custom guards for the closest, most comfortable fit.
Types of Night Guards
Depending on your grinding intensity and needs, we may recommend a soft night guard for mild grinding, a hard night guard for more significant bruxism, or a dual-laminate guard that combines a soft inner layer with a durable outer shell.
Night Guards and TMJ Symptoms
If you’re experiencing jaw clicking, popping, or pain that may be related to TMJ, a night guard can sometimes help reduce strain from clenching. A dental exam will help determine the best approach for your specific symptoms.
Night Guards vs. Sports Mouthguards
These are not interchangeable. A night guard is designed for grinding protection during sleep, while a sports mouth guard is built for impact protection during athletic activity — each serves a different purpose.
Caring for Your Night Guard
Rinse your guard after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush, let it air dry, and store it in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material. With proper care, a custom night guard can last months to years depending on your grinding intensity.
Schedule Your Night Guard Consultation
Ready to protect your smile while you sleep? Contact us at (415) 399-9999 or request an appointment today.
Night Guard FAQs
Do I need a night guard if I grind my teeth?
You may need one if you grind or clench, wake up with jaw pain or headaches, or show signs of tooth wear. An exam can confirm whether a custom guard is right for you.
Is a custom night guard better than a store-bought guard?
For most patients, yes. A custom guard is made to fit your teeth and bite for better comfort and protection.
Can a night guard stop teeth grinding?
Not always, but it helps protect your teeth from the force and damage caused by grinding and clenching.
Can a night guard help with jaw pain?
It may help reduce strain related to clenching, though a dental exam is important since jaw pain can have several causes.
Should I wear my night guard every night?
Most patients treating sleep bruxism wear their guard nightly for consistent protection.
How do I clean my night guard?
Rinse it after each use, brush gently with a soft toothbrush, and store it dry — avoid hot water, which can warp it.
Is a night guard the same as a sports mouthguard?
No, a night guard protects against grinding during sleep, while a sports mouthguard protects against athletic impact.
Protect Your Smile Tonight
Contact us at (415) 399-9999 to schedule your custom night guard consultation.