Occlusal Guards in Riverside, IL

What Are Occlusal Guards?

Occlusal guards—also known as night guards or dental mouth guards—are custom-made oral appliances designed to protect your teeth from damage caused by grinding (bruxism) or clenching, especially while you sleep. Made from durable yet comfortable materials, these guards form a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, helping to reduce wear, jaw tension, and discomfort.

At Orland Family Dental in Riverside, IL, we provide professionally fitted occlusal guards that are tailored to your bite and designed for maximum comfort and protection.

Benefits of Occlusal Guards

  • Prevent tooth wear and enamel erosion caused by grinding

  • Helps relieve jaw pain, headaches, and tension from clenching

  • Reduces the risk of cracked or fractured teeth

  • Can improve sleep quality by easing muscle strain

  • Custom-fit for comfort, unlike over-the-counter alternatives

  • Supports TMJ disorder management and bite alignment

Occlusal guards are a simple yet effective solution for long-term oral health and comfort.

Do I Need an Occlusal Guard?

You may be a good candidate for an occlusal guard if you:

  • Wake up with sore jaw muscles or headaches

  • Notice flattened, chipped, or worn-down teeth

  • Clench or grind your teeth during sleep

  • Have been diagnosed with bruxism or TMJ disorder

  • Experience sensitivity from enamel wear

Our team can evaluate your symptoms and recommend the right guard to protect your teeth and support jaw health.

What to Expect from the Occlusal Guard Process

Getting a custom occlusal guard at Orland Family Dental involves a quick, easy process:

  1. Consultation and Exam – We evaluate your bite and symptoms to determine if a guard is right for you.

  2. Impressions – We take precise impressions of your teeth to craft a custom-fit guard.

  3. Fitting – Once your guard is ready, you’ll return for a fitting to ensure it’s comfortable and effective.

  4. Wear and Care Instructions – We’ll explain how to wear and clean your guard properly for long-lasting use.

The process usually takes two appointments, and many patients begin experiencing relief shortly after using their night guard.

Why Choose Orland Family Dental for Occlusal Guards?

At Orland Family Dental, we understand how damaging teeth grinding and clenching can be — not just for your smile, but for your daily comfort and sleep quality. Our Riverside, IL dental team offers personalized care and top-quality guards that fit well and last.

We take pride in helping patients preserve their teeth, reduce pain, and enjoy better rest — starting with a custom occlusal guard made just for you.

FAQs

Q. Can I wear an occlusal guard during the day?

A. Yes. While most people wear them at night, day guards can be made for patients who clench or grind while awake, especially during times of stress. We can recommend the best option based on your symptoms.

Q. How do I know if I’m grinding my teeth at night?

A. Common signs include waking with jaw pain, morning headaches, flattened or chipped teeth, tooth sensitivity, or even your partner hearing you grind at night. A dental exam can confirm the presence of bruxism.

Q. Are occlusal guards covered by insurance?

A. Many dental insurance plans cover occlusal guards when medically necessary (such as for bruxism). Our team can help you check your coverage.

Q. What’s the difference between an over-the-counter night guard and a custom one?

A. Over-the-counter night guards are one-size-fits-all or boil-and-bite, which can be bulky, uncomfortable, or ineffective. A custom guard from your dentist is precisely shaped to your bite for better comfort, durability, and protection.

Protect your teeth while you sleep—schedule your occlusal guard consultation at Orland Family Dental in Riverside, IL today.

Call us at 708-447-2100 or book your appointment online.