Night Guards: Why a Custom-Fit is Worth the Investment

If you’ve ever considered using a night guard to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching (bruxism), you’ve likely come across a variety of options, from over-the-counter brands like Remi and Oral-B to custom-fitted dental night guards. While it might be tempting to grab a night guard off the shelf at Walgreens, investing in a custom night guard from your dentist is often the better choice for your long-term dental health. Here’s why.

The Drawbacks of Over-the-Counter Night Guards

Over-the-counter night guards, such as sports guards or do-it-yourself kits, may seem like a convenient and affordable option, but they often come with significant drawbacks. These generic night guards are typically bulky and uncomfortable, leading to a poor fit that can cause them to slip out during sleep. When a night guard is uncomfortable, you're less likely to wear it consistently, which defeats the purpose of having one in the first place. Additionally, the one-size-fits-all design doesn’t account for the unique shape of your teeth and bite, potentially causing discomfort, misalignment, and even the need for corrective orthodontic treatment. The only time we might recommend an over-the-counter sports guard is if you have braces. In this specific situation, a brand like Doctor’s, designed to accommodate braces, can be a suitable temporary solution. However, investing in a custom night guard upfront is a far better choice for ensuring your comfort, fit, and long-term dental health.

The Benefits of a Custom Night Guard

A custom night guard, like the ones we provide at Archer Dental, is crafted specifically for your mouth. We begin by taking a precise scan of your teeth, which allows us to create a night guard that fits your bite perfectly. This process typically takes about a week from scanning to receiving your night guard. Once it arrives, we make any necessary final adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. This level of customization means that your night guard will be less bulky, more comfortable, and easier to use than an over-the-counter option.

Another significant advantage of a custom night guard is its ability to prevent or alleviate symptoms of bruxism, such as jaw pain, headaches, and tooth wear. Custom night guards for bruxism are specifically designed to provide the right amount of protection while being comfortable enough to wear every night. This makes them a highly effective tool for managing and preventing the symptoms of bruxism.

Follow-Up and Maintenance

At Archer Dental, we recommend a follow-up appointment on a case-by-case basis, particularly if you experience joint pain, headaches, or other bruxism symptoms after starting to use your night guard. However, it’s rare to need a follow-up; about 99% of our patients find that their custom night guard fits perfectly and works effectively without further adjustments.

Proper maintenance of your night guard is crucial to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Knowing how to clean a night guard is important to prevent bacteria buildup and keep it in good condition. We recommend using a night guard cleaner or a mild soap with warm water to clean your night guard daily. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material. With proper care, your custom night guard can last for years, providing you with a comfortable, effective solution to protect your teeth.

Why Choose Archer Dental for Your Night Guard?

Choosing a custom night guard from Archer Dental is an investment in your dental health. With a price of $450, you’re getting a product that is tailored specifically to you, designed for comfort, and built to last. Unlike over-the-counter options, our night guards are less bulky and more effective, reducing the risk of complications like orthodontic issues.

Don’t settle for a generic solution when it comes to something as important as your dental health. Contact Archer Dental today to schedule a consultation and find out how a custom night guard can help you protect your smile.

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