If you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports, you may be putting your smile at risk. At Valley Dental Care, we offer custom nightguards and mouthguards to protect your teeth from damage. These comfortable, dentist-made appliances help prevent long-term wear, injuries, and costly dental repairs — whether you’re sleeping or staying active.
What Are Nightguards and Mouthguards?
Though they look similar, nightguards and mouthguards serve different purposes:
- Nightguards are worn during sleep to prevent damage from clenching or grinding your teeth (a condition known as bruxism).
- Sports mouthguards are worn during physical activity to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from injury.
Nightguards for Bruxism
Signs of Nighttime Grinding
Many people grind or clench their teeth in their sleep and don’t realize it until damage or discomfort occurs. Common signs of bruxism include:
- Morning headaches or jaw pain
- Worn or flattened teeth
- Cracked fillings or dental work
- Tooth sensitivity
How a Custom Nightguard Helps
Nightguards act as a protective cushion between the teeth, reducing pressure and friction caused by grinding. A custom nightguard from Valley Dental Care offers several benefits:
- Protects enamel from wear and fractures
- Relieves tension in the jaw and helps reduce TMJ symptoms
- Prevents damage to crowns, fillings, and other dental work
Unlike over-the-counter options, custom nightguards are designed for your unique bite and are more durable and comfortable over time.
Custom Sports Mouthguards
Protection During Play
Whether you’re on the field, the court, or the skate park, accidents can happen. Sports mouthguards are essential for preventing serious dental injuries such as broken teeth, lip lacerations, or jaw trauma. According to the American Dental Association, athletes without mouthguards are significantly more likely to suffer dental injuries.
Why Custom Mouthguards Are Better
Unlike store-bought options, a professionally made mouthguard is customized for your teeth and bite. Benefits include:
- Secure, comfortable fit that stays in place during activity
- Improved ability to speak and breathe while wearing
- Durable material that absorbs impact
Who Should Wear One?
We recommend mouthguards for anyone participating in sports like:
- Football, basketball, and hockey
- Wrestling or martial arts
- Skating, biking, or other high-impact activities
Nightguards and Mouthguards for All Ages
We make nightguards and mouthguards for kids, teens, and adults. If your child is active in sports or you’ve been waking up with jaw soreness, it may be time to consider a custom appliance. We’ll ensure the right fit for both comfort and protection.
Why Choose Valley Dental Care?
At our Aurora and Oswego locations, we prioritize preventive care and patient comfort. Our team will walk you through the process, explain your options, and ensure that your appliance fits properly. Whether you need protection from bruxism or contact sports, we’ll help you safeguard your smile with a solution that’s built to last.