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March 17, 2026·2 min read

Why You Need a Night Guard (And Why a Custom One Is Worth It)

Grinding your teeth at night can cause serious damage over time. Here's why a custom night guard from your dentist is one of the best investments you can make for your smile.

250+

lbs of force while grinding

70%

of adults grind at some point

5-10yr

custom guard lifespan

Signs You Might Be Grinding

Waking up with jaw soreness or headaches

Teeth that look flat, chipped, or worn

New tooth sensitivity with no obvious cause

Your partner hears you grinding at night

Jaw tension or tightness throughout the day

What Grinding Does to Your Teeth

Cracks and fractures — leading to crowns or extractions

Worn enamel — once gone, it doesn't come back

TMJ problems — jaw pain, clicking, limited mobility

Chronic headaches and neck pain

Damaged dental work — fillings and crowns can crack

A night guard costs a fraction of a single crown. It's prevention that pays for itself.

Custom vs. Store-Bought

Custom (Dentist)

  • +Exact fit from your impressions
  • +Comfortable enough to wear nightly
  • +Lasts 5-10 years
  • +Protects your bite alignment

Store-Bought

  • Bulky, one-size-fits-all
  • Most people quit in weeks
  • Wears out in months
  • Can actually shift your bite

How It Works

Visit 1: Digital impressions (no gooey molds) — sent to the lab.

Visit 2: Pick up your guard, we check the fit. Done.

Think you might be grinding? Book an appointment — Dr. Buchwald can spot the signs during a routine exam.

Common Questions

Ready to Love Your Smile?

New patients welcome. Request an appointment online or give us a call.

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