Digital Smile Design
Facial proportions, lip line and tooth shape are reviewed on screen so you can see the proposed outcome before any treatment starts.
DetailsWhat is bruxism?
Bruxism is an involuntary clenching or grinding behaviour that usually occurs during sleep. People are typically unaware of it themselves; the diagnosis is often reached when wear facets on the teeth are noticed during an examination.
What signs does it show?
It can present as morning jaw fatigue, headaches around the temples, flattened and worn tooth tips, sensitivity, repeated fracture of fillings or crowns, and noise or pain in the jaw joint.
What causes it?
There is no single cause. Sleep quality, stress levels, certain medications, caffeine and alcohol habits, bite discrepancies and conditions such as sleep apnoea can all play a role together. For that reason, treatment is not limited to providing a guard — the underlying contributing factors are reviewed as well.
What the night guard does — and its limits
A guard does not eliminate the clenching behaviour itself; it redirects the resulting force onto the guard rather than the teeth. This reduces wear, fractures and damage to restorations, and eases the strain on the jaw muscles.
The guard is custom-made for you from an intraoral scan or an impression. Ready-made soft guards sold commercially do not distribute bite force correctly and can worsen symptoms in some patients.
What is monitored afterwards?
Fit is checked once the guard is delivered. Because it can wear down over time, it is assessed once a year and renewed when needed.
This page is general information and does not replace a dental examination. Whether the treatment suits you, and the method and duration, are decided only after an intraoral examination and radiographic assessment.
After treatment
- Wear the guard every night; occasional use offers no real protection.
- Clean it each morning with cold water and a soft brush, not toothpaste.
- Avoid rinsing it in hot water — it can lose its shape.
- Store it dry in its case whenever it is not in use.
- Book a review appointment if you notice cracks or noticeable wear on it.
- Cutting back on evening caffeine and alcohol may ease symptoms.
The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a dental examination. Treatment decisions are made after an intraoral examination and radiographic assessment.