Night Guards and Occlusal Splints in Oakleigh
If you grind or clench your teeth while sleeping, that might be a cause for headaches, jaw discomfort, or tooth wear. This condition is often referred to as Bruxism.
At Dental Capital SE in Oakleigh, we provide custom-made night guards or sometimes called occlusal splints to protect your teeth and jaw during sleep.
Our night guards are made using digital 3D scanning technology. These guards are slim, durable, and precisely customised to protect the teeth without feeling bulky or intrusive.
Why you might need a night guard
· Grinding or clenching during sleep (bruxism)
· Jaw stiffness or morning headaches
· Cracked, chipped, or worn teeth
· Clicking or tightness in the jaw joint (TMJ)
· Tooth sensitivity and enamel wear
A custom-made occlusal splint acts as a protective barrier between your teeth, reducing muscle tension and preventing long-term damage.
Custom-Made Night Guards
Custom-made night guards are designed and made specifically for your mouth using digital scans of your teeth and after registering the relationship between your top and bottom teeth, while over the counter guards are generic, and they have to be moulded to the teeth after being warmed. Over-the-counter guards may seem more affordable, but they often fit not as precise as custom-made ones, they also don’t provide adequate protection, and may not feel comfortable to the bite.
Our custom night guards are 3D printed using premium materials that balance flexibility and strength. They’re thinner, more comfortable, and better adapted to the natural bite.
Night Guard vs Retainer – What’s the Difference?
Although both may look slightly similar, night guards and retainers serve completely different purposes:
· A night guard protects against grinding and clenching, absorbing biting pressure to prevent wear and damage.
· A retainer is used after orthodontic treatment to maintain tooth alignment and it’s thinner and not designed to handle heavy grinding forces.
If you grind your teeth and have finished orthodontic treatment, you may need both a retainer on the lower teeth, and a night guard for the top teeth. We’ll help you choose what’s right for your needs.
Why choose Dental Capital SE in Oakleigh
· Digital 3D scanning for perfect comfort and precision
· Slim, durable, and easy to insert and remove.
· 20+ years of experience in restorative and preventive dentistry
· Caring, professional approach.
Book your night guard consultation to discuss the available options and what suits your unique circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if I need a night guard?
If you wake up with sore jaws, tension headaches, or notice your teeth wearing down, you may be grinding your teeth in your sleep. A dental exam can spot signs of wear, damage, and cracks and your dentist in Oakleigh can discuss your options and whether a night guard is suitable for you.
2. How long does it take to get a custom night guard?
Most night guards are ready within 1-2 weeks.
3. Can I buy a night guard from a pharmacy instead?
Pharmacy night guards are not custom-fitted, often uncomfortable, and may not protect the teeth effectively. They can feel bulky and even strain your jaw since they are not customised to the bite. On the other hand, custom night guards are tailored to the bite for better comfort and protection.
4. Will a night guard feel bulky or hard to sleep with?
It may take one or more nights for you to get used to the night guard. We may recommend wearing it earlier than bed time for the first 2-3 nights to help you get used to it before you are ready to sleep.
5. How should I care for my night guard?
Rinse with cool water after each use, brush gently with a soft toothbrush, and store it in its protective case. Avoid hot water to prevent warping.
The information provided in this post is general in nature and is intended for educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional dental or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding your oral health or a specific condition. Individual needs and circumstances vary, and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with your dentist or healthcare provider.