If you’re experiencing jaw pain, waking up with headaches or playing a contact sport, it might be time to talk to one of our Portland dentists about getting a custom-fit mouth or night guard. These small but powerful devices can protect your teeth, improve comfort and prevent long-term damage, whether you’re grinding your teeth at night or gearing up for game day.
What Is a Custom-Fit Guard?
A custom-fit guard is a removable dental device made just for you, designed to fit your teeth and bite precisely. There are two main types: night guards, worn while you sleep to prevent teeth grinding or clenching (also called bruxism) and athletic mouth guards, worn during physical activity to protect against injury. Unlike bulky, one-size-fits-all options from the drugstore, custom-fit guards offer better protection, comfort and durability.
Who Needs a Custom-Fit Night Guard?
You might benefit from a night guard if you experience any of the following issues:
- You grind or clench your teeth while sleeping
- You wake up with sore jaws, headaches or facial pain
- Your teeth show signs of wear, cracks or sensitivity
- You’ve been told you snore or possibly have mild sleep apnea
Night guards help cushion the impact of grinding and clenching, protecting your enamel and reducing stress on your jaw joint. We can also explore ways to decrease your risk of teeth grinding, such as avoiding alcohol, caffeine and chewing gum.
Who Needs a Custom-Fit Athletic Mouth Guard?
An estimated 13-39% of all dental injuries occur while playing sports each year, making custom-fit athletic mouth guards essential if you:
- Play contact or high-impact sports like football, hockey, basketball or martial arts
- Participate in activities with a risk of falls, like skateboarding or gymnastics
- Wear metal braces or other dental appliances during physical activity
Athletic mouth guards protect against broken teeth, lip injuries, jaw fractures and even concussions. A custom guard fits snugly and won’t shift around, allowing you to speak clearly and breathe easily while staying protected.
Why Custom Fit Is Worth It
While store-bought guards may seem convenient, they often don’t stay in place and can feel bulky or uncomfortable. In contrast, custom-fit guards are made from precise impressions or scans of your mouth. This ensures a secure, comfortable fit that allows for proper function and better protection.
They’re also made from high-quality materials that last longer and stand up to nightly wear or athletic impact. Whether you’re sleeping or sprinting down the field, a custom-fit guard gives you peace of mind.
What to Expect
Getting a custom guard is simple. One of our Portland dentists will take an impression or digital scan of your mouth, and the lab will craft your guard to those exact specs. After a quick fitting appointment, you’ll walk away with a durable, personalized guard that works for your lifestyle.
Protect Your Smile on the Field and Off
From preventing tooth damage at night to safeguarding your smile on the court, a custom-fit mouth or night guard is a smart investment. At Downtown Dental Associates, we’re here to help you stay protected with comfortable, high-quality guards tailored just for you.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Jake Becker or Dr. Hailey Dodson today and take the next step in protecting your smile.