Night Guard

Night Guard services offered in Beaverton, OR

If you wake up with jaw soreness, headaches, or sensitive teeth, or if a loved one has noticed signs of grinding or clenching, a night guard may be an effective solution. At U & I Smile in Beaverton, Oregon, Lillian Liu, DMD, and the team can craft comfortable devices that protect your teeth and help you get a better night’s sleep. To learn more about night guards and the difference they can make, book a visit online or call the U & I Smile office today.

Night Guard Q&A

What’s a night guard?

A night guard, also called an occlusal or bite guard, is a removable dental appliance you wear over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. It creates a protective barrier between your teeth, preventing grinding or clenching (a condition known as bruxism).

Dr. Liu can create a customized night guard so you can enjoy a better fit and longevity.

What are the benefits of night guards?

Night guards protect against tooth wear and damage by absorbing the pressure of grinding. They can also:

Reduce jaw pain and tension
Improve sleep quality
Prevent future dental complications
Minimize morning headaches

Protecting your teeth early can help you avoid more involved or expensive treatments later.

Who can use night guards?

You may benefit from a night guard if you’re an adult or teen with symptoms of grinding or clenching and want relief from TMJ discomfort. If you’re under high stress, which often leads to nighttime clenching, Dr. Liu may check your teeth for signs of grinding.

Dental work is also an important investment, and a night guard can help you protect orthodontic treatment or restorations.

What is the process for getting a custom night guard?

Dr. Liu will examine your teeth and discuss your symptoms, including jaw pain, wear patterns, headaches, and nighttime grinding. If she recommends a night guard, you’ll start with digital X-rays or scans to capture the exact shape of your teeth.

Using highly precise 3D models, a dental lab fabricates your night guard to fit your mouth perfectly. You can also choose materials based on your needs, selecting a soft guard for mild grinding or a harder guard for heavy clenching.

Dr. Liu schedules a follow-up to check the fit, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure you know how to wear and care for the appliance. After that, the hard work is done, and you simply wear the night guard during sleep and enjoy better sleep and less pain.

Whether you’re dealing with grinding, clenching, or TMJ discomfort, a custom night guard offers long-lasting comfort. To discuss night guards and your available options, call U & I Smile or request an appointment online today.