Night guard against teeth grinding and clenching
Do you grind or clench your teeth, for example while sleeping? This can lead to wear of teeth and molars and may be accompanied by complaints of the jaw muscles or jaw joint.
At We Smile Tandartsen in Leiden, we assess your teeth and discuss your symptoms. When a night guard is appropriate, a custom-made protective plate can help protect your teeth and molars against the consequences of grinding and clenching.
How is a night guard made?
01 — Examination and assessment
We examine your teeth and assess any signs of teeth grinding or clenching, such as wear or damage to teeth and molars. We also discuss any symptoms you may have.
02 — Digital scan of your teeth
We take a digital scan of your teeth. This allows for the fabrication of a night guard that fits your teeth and molars precisely.
03 — Custom-made night guard
Based on the scan, your personal night guard is manufactured. The guard is intended to protect your teeth and molars against the pressure caused by grinding and clenching.
04 — Fitting and checking
During the fitting, we check the fit and your bite. We also explain how to use, clean, and store the night guard.
when can a night guard help?
Teeth grinding and clenching often happen unconsciously, for example during sleep. Due to the forces generated, teeth and molars can wear down or become damaged over time.
A night guard may be advised to protect your teeth and molars against this pressure. During the check-up, we assess your teeth, any wear, and your symptoms to determine if a night guard is suitable for your situation.
What does a night guard do and not do?
A night guard forms a protective layer between the teeth and molars. As a result, the forces of teeth grinding and clenching are not transferred directly to the teeth, and further wear or damage can be limited.
However, a night guard does not automatically remove the cause of teeth grinding or clenching. Therefore, we do not only look at the teeth, but also discuss your symptoms and possible factors that may play a role.
When there is reason to do so, we can discuss whether additional research or treatment is useful.
Use and maintenance of your night guard
A night guard is usually worn during sleep. It is important that the guard fits well and feels comfortable. During the fitting, we therefore check the fit and your bite and explain how to use the guard.
Clean the night guard regularly according to our instructions and store it in the designated case when you are not wearing it. This keeps the guard clean and protected.
Bring your night guard with you during your periodic check-ups. We can then check the fit, wear, and condition. If the guard no longer feels right or becomes damaged, please contact us.
Suffering from teeth grinding or clenching?
Do you notice that you grind your teeth or regularly clench your jaws? Or do you see wear on your teeth and molars? Then make an appointment at We Smile Tandartsen in Leiden to have your teeth assessed.
We examine your teeth, discuss your symptoms, and assess whether a custom-made night guard is suitable to protect your teeth and molars against further wear and damage.
