Night Guards in Basingstoke
Do you wake up with jaw pain, tension headaches, or a sore face? Have you noticed that your teeth seem flatter or more sensitive than they used to be? These could all be signs that you’re grinding or clenching your teeth at night - often without even realising it. A night guard, also known as an occlusal splint or bite guard, is a simple yet effective solution we offer to help protect your teeth and ease these symptoms.
At Hampshire Dental Care, we provide custom-made night guards that fit comfortably and work to prevent long-term damage caused by nighttime grinding, also known as bruxism. We take the time to understand your symptoms, assess any wear or tension, and recommend a tailored guard that supports your long-term oral health.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-fitted appliance worn over the teeth while you sleep. It acts as a physical barrier between your upper and lower teeth, helping to absorb the pressure of clenching and grinding. This reduces strain on the jaw muscles, protects the surfaces of your teeth, and can even help relieve related symptoms like facial discomfort, clicking or popping of the jaw, and tension headaches.
We create our night guards using precise digital scans or moulds of your mouth, ensuring a secure, comfortable fit that doesn’t interfere with breathing or sleep. The material is strong but smooth, designed to withstand the force of nightly grinding without feeling bulky.
Because each guard is custom made, it’s far superior to shop-bought versions, which are often loose, uncomfortable, and far less effective.
Why Choose Us for a Night Guard?
When it comes to preventing tooth wear and relieving muscle tension, fit and comfort are everything. At Hampshire Dental Care, we create night guards that are not only accurate and effective, but that patients actually want to wear. We use high-quality materials, take careful impressions, and adjust the fit if needed to make sure your guard feels right.
We don’t just hand you a guard and send you on your way. We’ll talk you through the symptoms you’ve been experiencing, look closely at any existing damage, and monitor how well the appliance is working at your review appointments.
Our team has years of experience identifying and managing bruxism, and we’re always happy to work with you on a solution that’s simple, supportive and tailored to your needs. Many patients tell us they sleep more soundly and feel better rested once they start wearing their guard regularly.
Signs You Might Need a Night Guard
Bruxism often goes unnoticed - until the signs start to show. If you’ve been experiencing any of the following, it’s worth having a chat with us:
- Jaw pain or stiffness in the morning
- Frequent headaches or tension in the temples
- Worn, flattened or chipped teeth
- Tooth sensitivity with no apparent cause
- Tightness or pain in the neck and shoulders
- Clicking or locking in the jaw joint (TMJ issues)
- Unexplained damage to fillings or dental work
Even if you’re not sure, we’re happy to take a look. Prevention is always better than cure, and early intervention with a night guard can stop long-term damage in its tracks.
Benefits of Using a Night Guard
Night guards are a straightforward solution with wide-ranging benefits. Here’s what our patients often notice:
Protects your teeth
Prevents enamel wear, cracks, and fractures caused by grinding forces.
Reduces jaw pain
Relieves the pressure and muscle tension that builds up from unconscious clenching.
Improves sleep
Many people sleep more peacefully once their jaw muscles can fully relax.
Prevents costly repairs
Avoids future dental work by preserving your natural teeth and any existing restorations.
Tailored to you
Custom-fit for comfort and effectiveness - no slipping, rubbing or bulkiness.
Your night guard will be made specifically for your mouth, ensuring the best possible protection without disrupting your sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a night guard uncomfortable to sleep in?
Not at all. Because it’s made to fit your teeth precisely, most patients find it very easy to get used to. We’ll make adjustments if needed to ensure a snug, comfortable fit.
How long does a night guard last?
With proper care, a custom night guard can last several years. If you grind heavily or bite particularly hard, it may need replacing sooner - but we’ll check its condition during your regular check-ups.
Will a night guard stop me grinding altogether?
No - it won’t stop the action, but it will protect your teeth and reduce the strain on your jaw. Some patients also find that wearing the guard helps reduce the habit over time.
Is this the same as a sports mouthguard?
No. Sports mouthguards are thicker and designed to absorb impact from contact sports. Night guards are thinner, smoother and designed for grinding or clenching during sleep.
Can I buy one over the counter?
You can, but they’re usually less effective, less comfortable, and more likely to interfere with sleep. A custom-made night guard from a dentist will always offer better protection and fit.
If you’re waking up with a sore jaw, struggling with frequent headaches, or simply want to protect your teeth from grinding, we’re here to help. Book an appointment at Hampshire Dental Care and let’s talk about whether a custom night guard could improve your comfort, sleep, and long-term dental health.
