Where Families in Green Lake Come to Smile
Night Guards in Seattle, WA
Are you waking up with a sore jaw or noticing your teeth look a little more worn than they used to? Unfortunately, you might be one of the millions of people who grind or clench their teeth at night without even knowing it. A custom night guard can stop this habit from causing lasting damage to your smile while helping you wake up feeling more refreshed.
At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, we create comfortable, effective night guards that protect your teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching. Dr. Cherryl Ellison uses digital scanning technology and 3D printing to design guards that fit perfectly, so you can actually wear them without feeling like you’re trying to sleep with a mouthful of plastic.
What Are
Night Guards?
Night guards are protective devices worn over your teeth while you sleep. They create a cushioning barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other. Think of them like a shock absorber for your mouth. When you clench or grind (a condition called bruxism), a night guard absorbs the force, preventing your teeth from taking the full impact.
Custom night guards from a dentist fit snugly over your teeth and stay in place through the night. They’re made from durable materials designed to withstand the pressure of grinding without wearing out quickly. Unlike the one-size-fits-all options you might find at a drugstore, custom guards are molded specifically to your mouth, making them more comfortable and effective.
Why You Might Need a Night Guard
Most people who grind their teeth do it unconsciously during sleep, so they don’t even realize they have a problem until symptoms appear. Signs you might benefit from a night guard include”
- Waking up with headaches
- Jaw soreness
- Tooth sensitivity
- Teeth that look flatter at the edges or have small chips
- Grinding sounds at night
Stress often triggers teeth grinding, but so can sleep disorders, an abnormal bite, or even missing teeth. According to the American Dental Association, over 70% of dentists have noticed increased signs of teeth grinding in their patients in recent years. Left untreated, chronic grinding can wear down enamel, cause tooth fractures, worsen jaw pain, and even lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. A night guard addresses these issues before they become serious.
The Custom Night Guard Process in Green Lake
Creating your night guard starts with a consultation at our Seattle office. Dr. Ellison examines your teeth and jaw to assess the extent of wear and determine the best type of guard for your needs. She uses a digital scanner to capture detailed impressions of your teeth, which is far more comfortable than traditional putty molds.
We then use this digital model to design a night guard that fits your mouth precisely. Our in-house 3D printer creates your guard within days, not weeks, so you can start protecting your teeth right away. When you come back to pick it up, Dr. Ellison makes sure it fits comfortably and shows you how to clean and care for it. Most people adjust to wearing their guard within a few nights.
The beauty of custom fabrication is that the guard feels natural in your mouth. It won’t slip around or make you gag, which means you’re more likely to actually wear it. We also check the thickness and shape to ensure it protects your teeth without altering your bite.
Types of Night Guards Available in Green Lake
Not all night guards are the same, and the right one depends on how severely you grind. Soft night guards work well for mild grinding. They’re cushiony and comfortable, but may not hold up as long if you’re a heavy grinder. Hard acrylic guards are more durable and better for people who clench with significant force, though they take slightly longer to get used to.
Dual-laminate guards combine both materials, with a soft inner layer for comfort and a hard exterior for protection. These work well for moderate to severe grinding. At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, we evaluate your specific situation and recommend the material that gives you the best balance of comfort and protection. We can also adjust your guard as needed if your grinding patterns change.
Caring for Your Night Guard
A night guard only works if you take care of it. Rinse it with cool water every morning and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material. Let it air dry before storing it in its case to prevent bacteria buildup.
Deep-clean your guard once a week with denture cleaner or a vinegar-and-water mixture. Inspect it regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks, holes, or rough spots. If you notice damage, bring it in so we can assess whether it needs repair or replacement. With proper care, a quality night guard can last several years.
Don’t forget to bring your guard to your dental cleanings so we can check its condition and make sure it’s still fitting properly. Your bite and teeth position can change over time, and your guard may need adjustments to continue providing adequate protection.
Protect Your Smile at Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Cherryl Ellison brings fresh thinking and modern technology to dental care in Seattle. With digital scanners, 3D printing, and a focus on creating comfortable, long-lasting solutions, we make getting a night guard straightforward and stress-free. Our Green Lake office combines a welcoming atmosphere with the latest dental technology, and we offer flexible payment options, including an in-house membership plan for $36 per month and Cherry Financing with 0% interest for 12 months.
Ready to stop waking up with jaw pain and protect your teeth from grinding damage? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ellison at Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry.
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