Night Guards
If you wake up with sore teeth, jaw pain, or headaches, you may be grinding or clenching your teeth at night. A custom night guard from Friendly Smiles Center can help protect your smile and give your jaw a much-needed break while you sleep.
At our Mount Laurel dental office, Dr. Robert Chase designs comfortable, custom-made night guards that fit your bite and address your specific symptoms, so you can rest easier and avoid long-term damage to your teeth and jaw joints.
Why a Custom Night Guard Matters
Teeth grinding and clenching can slowly wear away your enamel, chip or fracture teeth, and strain your jaw. A store-bought guard might feel bulky or loose, and if it does not fit quite right, you may not wear it at all.
A professionally made night guard is tailored to your mouth and your bite, which can help you:
- Protect teeth from wear, chipping, or cracking
- Reduce morning jaw soreness and tension
- Support jaw joint comfort and stability
- Sleep with greater comfort and peace of mind
At Friendly Smiles Center, we take time to listen to your concerns and clearly explain your options. Our goal is to help you feel confident that your night guard is not only protective, but also comfortable enough for nightly use.
What to Expect From Night Guard Treatment
Your visit starts with a conversation about your symptoms and a thorough exam with Dr. Chase. If a night guard is recommended, we will take precise digital scans or impressions of your teeth. These records allow us to create a guard that fits securely and feels natural when you close your mouth.
Once your night guard is ready, we will check the fit, make any needed adjustments, and show you exactly how to wear and care for it. You will know what to expect, how long to wear it each night, and how to keep it clean so it lasts as long as possible.
Why Choose Friendly Smiles Center for Your Night Guard
Friendly Smiles Center is built around comfort, kindness, and clear communication. Patients often share that they appreciate how Dr. Chase explains every step and takes their questions seriously. That same detailed approach is applied when planning and fitting your night guard, so your treatment feels personalized rather than one-size-fits-all.
Our modern office in Mount Laurel is designed to put you at ease with a welcoming team, relaxing amenities, and convenient extended hours on multiple days. With advanced technology and an on-site dental laboratory for many restorations, we are able to offer efficient, high-quality care that respects your time and schedule.
Night Guard FAQs
How do I know if I need a night guard?
Common signs include waking with sore or sensitive teeth, jaw pain, headaches, or noticing worn, chipped, or flattened tooth surfaces. During an exam, Dr. Chase can look for signs of grinding or clenching and let you know if a night guard would be helpful.
What is the difference between a custom night guard and one from a store?
Store-bought guards are made to fit many different mouths, which often means they feel bulky, loose, or uncomfortable. A custom night guard is made from precise records of your teeth, so it fits more securely, protects specific areas that need support, and is usually easier to wear consistently.
Will wearing a night guard stop my grinding?
A night guard does not typically stop the grinding habit itself, but it creates a protective barrier between your teeth and can help reduce strain on your jaw joints. This can limit damage to your teeth and may lessen symptoms like soreness and headaches.
Is a night guard uncomfortable to sleep with?
Most patients adjust to a custom night guard quickly. Because it is made to fit your bite, it usually feels much slimmer and more natural than a generic guard. If something feels off, we can make small adjustments so it is easier to wear.
How long will my night guard last?
With good care and regular dental checkups, many night guards last for several years. The exact lifespan depends on how heavily you grind or clench and how well you maintain the appliance.
How do I clean and care for my night guard?
You will receive simple cleaning and storage instructions at your appointment. In general, it is important to rinse and gently brush the guard after wearing it, let it dry completely, and store it in a protective case away from heat or pets.
Can I wear a night guard if I have crowns, bridges, or dental implants?
In many cases, yes. In fact, a night guard can help protect your existing dental work from damage related to grinding or clenching. Dr. Chase will evaluate your teeth and restorations and recommend a night guard design that fits your mouth and dental history.
Protect Your Smile With a Custom Night Guard Today
If you are waking up with jaw pain or worn teeth, we can design a personalized night guard to help protect your smile while you sleep. Contact Friendly Smiles Center today to schedule an appointment or contact us with any questions about your options.