General Dentistry
Sports Guards & Night Guards in Minnesota
Custom protection for your teeth during play and while you sleep.
Your teeth face two very different but equally real threats — impact during physical activity and the grinding or clenching that happens during sleep. Custom-fitted mouth guards address both, offering a level of protection and comfort that generic store-bought options simply cannot provide.
Sports Guards & Night Guards in Minnesota
Whether you are an athlete on the field or someone who clenches their jaw during sleep, your teeth deserve proper protection. Custom guards are fabricated from precise impressions of your mouth, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place and actually gets worn consistently.
Sports Guards
A blow to the face during any contact or collision sport can crack, chip, or knock out teeth. A custom sports guard absorbs and distributes impact force, protecting teeth, lips, gums, and even reducing the risk of jaw fractures and concussions.
- Custom Fit Made from an impression of your teeth, custom sports guards fit precisely and comfortably, making it easier to breathe and speak.
- Recommended for All Ages From youth sports through adult recreational leagues, anyone in contact or collision activities benefits from a custom guard.
- Durable and Long-Lasting Custom guards outlast generic versions and hold their protective shape over time.
Night Guards
Bruxism — grinding or clenching teeth during sleep — affects a large portion of the population, often without awareness. Over time, it wears down enamel, cracks teeth, causes jaw soreness, and contributes to TMJ dysfunction. A custom night guard creates a protective barrier between upper and lower teeth, absorbing the forces of grinding before they damage your smile.
- Protects Enamel Enamel cannot regenerate. A night guard preserves what you have.
- Reduces Jaw Pain and Headaches By cushioning the bite, night guards relieve the muscular tension that causes morning soreness and headaches.
- Extends the Life of Restorations Crowns, veneers, and other dental work last longer when protected from grinding forces.
How They Are Made
We take a precise impression of your teeth, which is used to fabricate your guard in a dental lab. The finished product fits your mouth exactly, stays comfortable during wear, and provides reliable protection every time.
Sports Guards & Night Guards FAQ
- How is a custom guard different from one bought at a store?
- Custom guards are made from precise impressions of your teeth for a perfect fit. Store-bought options are loose, less comfortable, and provide significantly less protection.
- How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
- Common signs include waking with jaw soreness or headaches, noticing worn or flattened teeth, and partners reporting grinding sounds during sleep. Your provider can also identify signs during an exam.
- How long does a custom guard last?
- Night guards typically last one to five years depending on the severity of grinding and how well they are cared for. Sports guards often last one to three seasons.
- Can children wear custom guards?
- Yes. Custom guards can be made for children, though they may need to be replaced as teeth and jaws grow. Ask your provider about the right timing for your child.
- How do I care for my guard?
- Rinse it with cool water after each use, brush it gently with a toothbrush, and store it in its case when not in use. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material.
- Can a night guard fix my TMJ?
- It can significantly reduce TMJ symptoms caused by clenching and grinding. For more complex TMJ issues, additional treatment may be recommended alongside guard therapy.
Your Holistic Dentist
Meet Dr. Miller
