Occlusal Splints & Night Guards: Protect Your Teeth, Ease Your Jaw
Stop the cycle of grinding and clenching before it starts. Our expertly fitted occlusal splints and night guards act like a custom shock absorber—cushioning your bite, easing muscle strain, and seamlessly complementing other TMJ therapies.
Why Splints & Night Guards Matter
When you grind or clench, tiny tears form in your jaw muscles and joint cartilage, fueling pain, headaches, and worn enamel. A precise splint or guard:
- Redistributes bite forces to ease pressure on your TMJ
- Guards against tooth damage, reducing sensitivity
- Interrupts muscle overactivity, breaking the pain–tension cycle
Think of it as a gentle buffer—non-invasive, simple to use, and most powerful when combined with targeted treatments.
Soft vs. Hard: Which Is Right?
| Feature | Soft Night Guard | Hard Occlusal Splint |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort & Adaptation | Plush, molds quickly | Rigid—requires a short break-in |
| Durability | 6–12 months | 2–3 years with proper care |
| Force Redistribution | Good for mild–moderate grinding | Superior for severe bruxism |
| Cost | Lower upfront investment | Higher initial cost |
| Ideal For | Occasional clenchers | Chronic, heavy grinders |
What to Expect: Fitting & Follow-Up
- Evaluation & Impression
Your provider reviews your bite, scans or molds your teeth. - Custom Fabrication
Medical-grade acrylic is crafted to your anatomy. - Fitting & Fine-Tuning
Adjustments ensure a perfect fit—no pinching, just protection. - Care & Maintenance
Clean nightly with gentle soap, store in its ventilated case, and replace as recommended (soft guards every year; hard splints every 2–3 years).
Who Benefits Most?
- Mild–Moderate Grinders: Soft guards for immediate comfort.
- Severe Bruxers: Hard splints for maximum protection and bite correction.
- Layered Care Seekers: Combine with Botox, PT, or exercises for deeper, longer-lasting relief.
Pros & Cons at a Glance
- Pros: Non-invasive, protects enamel, reduces muscle strain, pairs beautifully with other therapies.
- Cons: Takes a brief adaptation period, requires nightly wear, occasional replacement.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Fit?
Protect your smile and soothe your jaw with a custom splint or guard—prescribed by local experts.