Night Guard Q & A
What is a night guard?
A night guard is a protective oral appliance you wear while you sleep. Using an impression of your teeth or digital scans, the dental team at Martindale Family Dentistry fits you with a high-quality night guard that’s customized specifically to your teeth and mouth.
Because your UltraFlex night guard is unique to you, it’s comfortable to wear and prevents you from grinding your teeth while you sleep.
Why would I need a night guard?
If your jaw is tender and achy when you wake up, you might be grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw in your sleep. You might also be plagued with headaches or toothaches. This is a condition called bruxism, which affects both adults and children.
Your dentist at Martindale Family Dentistry might suggest a night guard to ease these uncomfortable symptoms. You wear the night guard on your teeth while you sleep, then remove it each morning when you wake up.
If you don’t wear a night guard but continue to grind your teeth while you sleep, you run the risk of severe teeth damage over time. This could cause you to need cosmetic dental work, such as crowns or veneers, in the future.
What are the benefits of wearing a night guard?
Some of the numerous benefits of wearing a custom-fit UltraFlex night guard provided by Martindale Family Dentistry include:
- Protecting your teeth from wear-and-tear
- Lowering your risk of receding gums
- Reducing soreness in your jaw muscles
- Having fewer earaches, toothaches, and headaches
- Protecting any dental restorations
UltraFlex is a comfortable night guard that offers advanced protection for your natural teeth and any restorations you may have, including veneers, crowns, or bridges.
Is a night guard right for me?
To find out if you’re a good candidate for a night guard, the Martindale Family Dentistry team reviews your symptoms and oral health history. They might take dental X-rays and examine your teeth and gums to determine if you grind or clench your teeth.
Don’t take the chance of experiencing worn-down or broken teeth because of teeth grinding when a simple solution at Martindale Family Dentistry can protect you. Schedule an appointment by phone or online to find out if an UltraFlex night guard is right for you.
Night Guard FAQs
1. What is a dental night guard? Why might I need one?
A night guard is a thin, comfortable oral appliance worn during sleep to prevent your upper and lower teeth from clenching or grinding against each other. Many people clench without realizing it, often due to stress, sleep habits, or bite alignment. Over time, this constant pressure can wear down enamel and strain the jaw. At Martindale Family Dentistry in Griffin, GA, Dr. Mark Martindale designs custom-fitted guards that provide lasting protection and comfort.
2. How much does a night guard cost in Griffin, GA?
The cost depends on the material, design, and whether you need a guard for mild clenching or severe grinding. As each appliance is crafted specifically for your bite, the fit and durability are far superior to generic store-bought versions. We’ll provide a detailed quote before treatment and discuss payment or financing options to make care affordable for every patient.
3. Will my dental insurance help pay for a night guard?
Many dental insurance plans cover part or all the cost of a night guard when it’s prescribed to treat bruxism or TMJ-related discomfort. Our staff will verify your benefits in advance, handle all claim submissions, and explain any remaining costs before we move forward.
4. What are the signs I might be grinding or clenching at night?
You may need a night guard if you often wake up with a sore jaw, tension headaches, ear pain, or teeth that feel sensitive or worn. Some patients even hear their partner mention grinding sounds during sleep. Dr. Martindale can evaluate your bite and enamel wear to determine whether nighttime clenching is the cause.
5. How does a custom night guard differ from one sold in stores?
Drugstore versions are made to fit everyone, and therefore fit no one perfectly. They can feel bulky, slip out at night, or irritate the gums. Custom guards from Martindale Family Dentistry are digitally designed from your exact dental impressions, providing a secure, natural fit that feels nearly invisible once in place.
6. Can wearing a night guard help relieve jaw or facial pain?
Yes. Night guards cushion the teeth and reduce pressure on the jaw joint, often easing tension related to TMJ disorders. Many patients notice fewer headaches and less facial soreness within just a few nights of consistent wear.
7. How long will my night guard last?
With regular cleaning and care, most custom night guards last 3 – 5 years. If you grind heavily or have significant bite pressure, Dr. Martindale can recommend a reinforced version designed for added durability. During your routine checkups, he’ll inspect your guard to make sure it still fits properly.
8. What’s the best way to clean my night guard?
After each use, rinse your guard under cool water and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild cleanser, never toothpaste or hot water, which can cause damage. Store it in a ventilated case to keep it dry and fresh. Once a week, use a specialized cleaning tablet or soak recommended by our office to eliminate buildup.
9. How can a night guard improve my overall dental health?
Where can I find a dentist near Griffin, GA, who provides custom night guards?
If you’re located in Griffin or surrounding communities like Williamson, Brooks, or Hampton, Martindale Family Dentistry offers personalized night guard fittings right in our office. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Martindale, call 770-637-5876 or book online. We’ll assess your needs, design your guard, and help you sleep comfortably while safeguarding your smile.
