Over-the-counter night guards are bulky, poorly fitting, and in many cases make TMJ symptoms worse by holding the jaw in an incorrect position. A custom occlusal splint is fabricated to your exact bite and jaw anatomy – providing protection and therapeutic repositioning that generic guards cannot achieve.
At Arizona Center for Laser Dentistry in Scottsdale, our custom night guards are lab-fabricated from precise digital impressions. They are designed not just to protect tooth enamel from grinding but to reduce load on the TMJ and relax the surrounding musculature.
Signs You May Benefit From a Custom Occlusal Splint
Grinding or clenching at night
Worn or flattened tooth enamel
Morning headaches on waking
Jaw soreness in the morning
Partner reports grinding sounds
Facial muscle tension and fatigue
Ear pain related to jaw clenching
Cracked or fractured teeth
TMJ pain not responding to other treatment
Guard Options
Types of Night Guards and Splints We Provide
Evaluation Component
What We Assess
Included
Stabilization Splint
Full arch coverage, most common for bruxism
Available
Anterior Repositioning Splint
Guides jaw to therapeutic position
Available
NTI Device
Anterior-only contact for severe clenchers
Available
Soft Night Guard
For mild grinders, more comfortable
Available
Hard Acrylic Splint
Durable, precise fit for moderate to severe TMJ
Available
Sleep Apnea Combination Appliance
Combined airway and bruxism device
When indicated
Fitting Process
How Your Custom Night Guard Is Made
1
Initial Evaluation
We evaluate your bite, grinding patterns, and jaw health to determine the most appropriate guard type for your case.
2
Digital Impressions
Precise digital impressions of your upper and lower teeth are taken - no messy impression material required.
3
Lab Fabrication
Your custom guard is sent to our dental lab and fabricated to your exact specifications, typically ready within one to two weeks.
4
Fitting Appointment
You return for a fitting appointment where the guard is adjusted for comfort and proper bite contact.
5
Care Instructions
You receive care and cleaning instructions to maintain your guard. Follow-ups are scheduled to monitor your response to therapy.
Common Questions
Night Guard FAQ
How is a custom night guard different from a store-bought one?
Custom night guards are fabricated from precise impressions of your teeth and bite. They fit accurately, position the jaw correctly, and are made from materials designed for long-term durability. Store-bought guards are generic and can worsen TMJ symptoms.
How long does a custom night guard last?
With proper care, a custom night guard typically lasts 3 to 5 years. Heavy grinders may wear through guards more quickly. We recommend annual checkups to evaluate guard wear.
Does insurance cover a custom night guard?
Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for custom occlusal appliances when prescribed for bruxism or TMJ disorder. Our team verifies your benefits before fabrication.
Will a night guard stop my TMJ pain?
A night guard is often a foundational part of TMJ treatment. For many patients, it significantly reduces morning jaw pain, headaches, and tooth wear. It is most effective when combined with a full evaluation.
How do I clean and care for my night guard?
Rinse your guard with cool water after each use. Clean it weekly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Store it in its protective case away from heat. Never use hot water as it can warp the material.
Can I get a night guard the same week?
The initial evaluation and impression appointment is typically available same-week at our Scottsdale office. The guard itself requires lab fabrication time of 1 to 2 weeks.
Related Services
Other TMJ Treatments We Offer
Search
TMJ Exam and Evaluation
Start with an accurate diagnosis
Needle
Masseter Botox for jaw muscle tension
Masseter Botox for jaw muscle tension
Grind
Bruxism Treatment
Comprehensive clenching solutions
Sleep
Sleep Apnea Appliance
Airway and sleep bruxism treatment
Run
Physical Therapy Referral
Scottsdale PT partner network
List
TMJ Treatment Overview
All treatment options explained
Ready for a Night Guard That Actually Fits?
Custom occlusal splints fitted at our North Scottsdale office. Same-week evaluation appointments available.
