Our Services
Night Guards
Custom-fitted protection against nighttime grinding and clenching — so your teeth aren't taking the damage while you sleep.
What Night Guards Do
Protecting your teeth while you sleep.
Teeth clenching and grinding — known as bruxism — can cause serious, cumulative damage to your teeth over time. Many people don't realize they're doing it because it happens at night, entirely out of conscious awareness. The signs tend to show up gradually: worn or flattened tooth surfaces, increased sensitivity, sore jaw muscles, and sometimes headaches that start when you wake up.
A custom night guard is a removable appliance made of flexible plastic, precisely molded to fit your teeth. It creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding and preventing enamel wear. Unlike over-the-counter options, a custom-fitted appliance actually stays in place and doesn't interfere with your sleep.
Custom-made oral appliances can also play a role in managing conditions like TMJ disorders. We'll evaluate what's going on and let you know whether a night guard is the right starting point, or if a different approach makes more sense.
Custom-fitted night guards are molded to your teeth for a comfortable, secure fit.
Night guards protect enamel from the wear caused by clenching and grinding.
Why Vandervoort
Why Choose Vandervoort Family Dentistry for Night Guards
- Precisely fitted to your teeth — not a generic, one-size-fits-all tray
- Comfortable flexible plastic that holds its shape and stays in place
- Protects enamel from grinding — damage that can't be reversed once it's done
- Can also help address jaw soreness and TMJ-related symptoms
- Straightforward process — impressions taken and guard delivered in just two visits
The Process
What to Expect When Getting a Night Guard
Simple, two-visit process — from evaluation to your finished, custom-fitted appliance.
Evaluation
We examine your teeth for signs of wear and discuss what you've been experiencing — jaw soreness, morning headaches, a partner noticing grinding sounds. Together we confirm whether a night guard is the right approach.
Impressions
We take precise impressions of your teeth, which are sent to a dental lab to fabricate your custom appliance. The fit matters — a guard that doesn't seat properly won't stay in place or protect you effectively.
Fitting & Delivery
When your guard returns from the lab, we seat it, check the fit and bite, and make any needed adjustments. We walk you through how to wear and care for it — and you leave with a finished appliance ready to use that night.
Have Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions About Night Guards
Explore More
Explore Our Services
Preventive Dentistry
Cleanings, exams, fluoride, and more — the foundation of long-term oral health.
Learn More →Mouth Guards
Custom-fit protection for sports — built to absorb impact and keep your teeth safe.
Learn More →TMJ & Bruxism
Jaw pain, clicking, and clenching — treatment options for TMJ disorders and bruxism.
Learn More →What Patients Say
“Had a double procedure for a crown and a filling in a front tooth. I was in the chair about 2 hours, but Dr. Will and Christine made it a good session with excellent results. The whole staff are so friendly and professional! Can’t recommend better dental services for your entire family.”
— Stephen N.
Read More ReviewsWaking up with a sore jaw?
If you’re grinding at night, we can help. Let’s take a look and talk through your options.