Custom Night Guards & TMJ Care in Largo, FL

Signs you may be grinding or clenching

Teeth grinding (bruxism) often happens during sleep, so many people don't realize they do it. Signs include worn or chipped teeth, sore jaw muscles in the morning, morning headaches, sensitive teeth, and a partner hearing grinding at night. If you notice any of these, mention it at your next exam.

What is a custom night guard?

A custom night guard is a removable appliance made to fit your teeth. It is worn while you sleep and creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, reducing the force of grinding and clenching. We take an impression or scan of your teeth so the guard fits your bite.

Custom vs. store-bought guards

Store-bought night guards come in standard sizes and may not fit well, which can make them uncomfortable or cause you to stop wearing them. A custom guard is made from an impression or scan of your own teeth, so it fits your bite and is more likely to stay in place through the night.

Protecting crowns, veneers and implants

Grinding can damage dental restorations as well as natural teeth. If you have crowns or bridges, porcelain veneers, or dental implants, a night guard can help protect that investment. Let us know about any restorations when we fit your guard.

TMJ evaluation

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. TMJ discomfort can cause jaw pain, clicking or popping, difficulty opening your mouth fully, and headaches. We examine your jaw joint, bite and muscles and talk with you about options to help manage symptoms. We do not promise a specific outcome, as TMJ conditions vary.

Caring for your night guard

Rinse your night guard with cool water and brush it gently after each use. Store it in the case we provide to protect it from damage. Bring it to your regular checkups so we can check the fit and condition over time.

Cost, insurance and financing

The cost of a custom night guard depends on the type of guard and your insurance benefits. We are in-network with Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, MetLife, United Healthcare and BCBS Florida Combined Life, and we accept most PPO dental plans. We also accept Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare and Humana Medicare Advantage plans. Financing is available through CareCredit and Sunbit, and we offer an in-office discount plan for patients without insurance. We will give you an estimate before treatment begins.

See insurance and financing options.