Occlusal Night Guards at French Smiles
Do you wake up with a sore jaw, a dull headache, or teeth that feel tender for no clear reason? You may be grinding or clenching while you sleep. At French Smiles, we create custom occlusal night guards that cushion your teeth, ease pressure on your jaw, and help you wake up feeling rested. Our team has cared for families in Snellville and the surrounding communities since 1986, and we keep every step of the process simple and comfortable.
What Are Occlusal Night Guards?
Occlusal night guards are thin, custom-fitted appliances you wear over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. They create a protective barrier between your top and bottom teeth, so the force of grinding (known as bruxism) lands on the guard instead of your enamel.
Many people grind without realizing it. Stress, sleep habits, and bite alignment can all play a role. Over time, grinding and clenching at night can lead to:
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Cracked fillings and crowns
- Jaw soreness and TMJ discomfort
- Morning headaches
- Tooth sensitivity and gum recession
Advantages of Custom Night Guards
- A precise fit. Your guard is made from impressions of your own teeth, so it stays in place without feeling bulky.
- Better sleep. A comfortable guard is easier to wear, so you’re more likely to keep it in all night.
- Long-term savings. Protecting your enamel today can help you avoid crowns, bonding, or root canal therapy later.
- Jaw relief. Occlusal night guards help relax the muscles that tighten during clenching.
- Lasting durability. Professionally made materials hold up much longer than store-bought options.
Custom vs. Store-Bought: How They Compare
Feature | Custom Night Guard | Store-Bought Guard | What It Means for You |
Fit | Shaped from impressions of your teeth | Boil-and-bite or one-size-fits-all | A secure fit that stays put |
Comfort | Slim and smooth | Often bulky | Easier to wear every night |
Durability | Built to last years with proper care | May wear through in months | Fewer replacements |
Bite Balance | Adjusted by your dentist | No professional adjustment | Less strain on your jaw |
What to Expect During Treatment
- Your Consultation: Dr. French will talk with you about your symptoms, look for signs of wear, and check your jaw joints. With digital X-rays and our intraoral camera, we can show you exactly what we see, so you understand what’s happening in your mouth.
- Taking Impressions: If occlusal night guards are a good fit for you, we take impressions of your teeth. This quick, easy step gives us everything we need to make a guard shaped to your smile.
- Your Fitting Visit: When your guard is ready, we check the fit and fine-tune your bite so your teeth meet evenly. We’ll also show you how to put it in, take it out, and keep it clean.
- Aftercare: Rinse and brush your guard each morning, store it in its case, and bring it to your regular checkups so we can make sure it’s still doing its job.
- Comfort and Care at Every Visit: Our team takes a gentle, unhurried approach, answers every question, and makes sure your guard feels right before you leave. If anything feels off after a few nights, give us a call, and we’ll adjust it.
Experienced, Trusted Care
Dr. Robert French started as a patient at this very practice when he was eight years old, and he graduated from dental school in 2019. Today he brings a gentle, thorough touch and a down-to-earth personality that patients truly appreciate. Our practice is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Georgia Dental Association, and we serve patients from Snellville, Grayson, Loganville, Monroe, and Lawrenceville.
When you choose occlusal night guards in Snellville, GA from our team, you get care from people who know and value this community.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do occlusal night guards last?
With proper care, most last several years. We check yours at each visit and let you know when it’s time for a replacement.
Will I be able to sleep comfortably?
Most patients adjust within a few nights. Custom guards are slim and smooth, which makes them much easier to wear than over-the-counter versions.
Does insurance cover night guards?
Some plans do. We’re happy to file insurance for you and help you understand your benefits. We also accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, and CareCredit.
Protect Your Smile Tonight With French Smiles
You don’t have to keep waking up sore. Occlusal night guards are a simple, comfortable way to protect your teeth and give your jaw a well-deserved break. Call French Smiles or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation for occlusal night guards in Snellville, GA. Have questions about coverage? Our friendly team is happy to check your insurance benefits before your visit.
