Sleep Better. Protect Your Smile.
Custom Nightguards
in Bunbury
for Teeth Grinding
Eversmile Dental offers custom nightguards in Bunbury designed to reduce the effects of teeth grinding during sleep. Each nightguard is made to fit your bite precisely and comfortably.
What Is a Nightguard for Teeth?
Common Signs You Might
Need a Nightguard
- Morning Jaw Pain
You may wake up with a sore jaw caused by grinding or clenching your teeth during sleep. This ongoing pressure strains your jaw muscles and can lead to tightness, discomfort, or limited jaw movement.
- Frequent Headaches
Grinding your teeth during sleep places strain on your facial muscles. This repeated pressure often leads to tension headaches, particularly upon waking. You may notice dull, consistent discomfort around your temples or forehead.
- Worn-Down Teeth
You may notice flattened or chipped tooth surfaces. This often happens when you grind or clench your teeth during sleep. Repeated pressure over time can wear down enamel and affect your bite and comfort.
- Tooth Sensitivity
You might notice sharp discomfort when eating or drinking cold or hot foods, especially if the enamel has worn down. Bruxism can gradually weaken your enamel, exposing sensitive areas of your teeth to temperature.
Discover the Long-Lasting Benefits of Custom Nightguards
- Tooth Protection
Custom nightguards are made to cushion the effects of grinding during sleep. They can help reduce the likelihood of enamel wear or minor tooth surface damage. Wearing a well-fitted nightguard can help evenly distribute pressure across your teeth.
- Jaw Relief
They are designed to relieve pressure on jaw joints and facial muscles during clenching or grinding. This may assist in easing discomfort, stiffness, or fatigue related to jaw strain.
- Better Sleep
Nightguards may help reduce the effects of nighttime grinding, lessening pressure on the jaw and making it feel more relaxed. They limit teeth contact, which may support comfort and help reduce morning tension or soreness.
- Personal Comfort
Nightguards are custom-made to follow the exact shape of your bite. This creates a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place. Patients often report that a custom-made fit feels more comfortable to wear regularly.
Start with a Dental Consultation in Bunbury
Are you ready to prioritise your oral health? Book a consultation with our friendly team to discuss your needs and explore suitable treatment options.
Why Choose Eversmile Dental
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- Proudly Bunbury Locals
- We don’t just work in Bunbury—we call it home. We raise our kids here, support local schools, and shop at the same weekend markets. We’re part of the fabric of this town, and we’re deeply connected with the people we serve. When you visit Eversmile Dental, you’ll be cared for by dentists who are part of the Bunbury community.
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- Serving Since 2006
- Founded by Dr. Daniel Tham in 2006, Eversmile Dental has been part of Bunbury for nearly two decades, providing care for local families. We’re proud of our history and even more excited about where we’re heading as we continue caring for generations of local families.
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- Dental Care for All Ages
- From a toddler’s first visit to helping grandparents maintain healthy gums, we tailor care for every age. We offer flexible appointment options and a supportive approach to make family visits easier. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where dental care feels familiar and approachable.
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- Personalised Care Plans for Your Needs
- You’re not just a number. At Eversmile Dental, we listen carefully, explain your options clearly, and work with you to create a plan that aligns with your goals. Whether you’re nervous, curious, or just want a second opinion, we’ll guide you with open communication and informed choices.
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- Our Commitment to Professional Standards
- Honesty, integrity, and professional responsibility guide our care at Eversmile Dental. We clearly explain your treatment options and give you the opportunity to make informed choices without pressure. Our focus is on clear communication, professional advice, and delivering dental care in accordance with recognised standards.
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- Modern Technology for Accuracy in Diagnosis and Treatment
- We’ve invested in modern dental technology, like 3D scanners, CBCT imaging, and EMS Airflow. Why? These tools assist with diagnosis and treatment planning in dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some people experience teeth grinding, but aren’t sure where to start. This section covers key details to help you understand how nightguards work.
Is a nightguard good for your teeth?
Yes, a nightguard may help protect your teeth when it is custom-made and fitted by your dentist. Below, we explain how a nightguard can support your oral health:
- Protects Your Tooth Enamel:
A custom nightguard fits over your teeth to help reduce contact with your teeth during nighttime grinding. It may help reduce enamel wear during sleep and support your ongoing oral health. - May Reduce Stress on Teeth:
Teeth grinding can put excessive pressure on your teeth, causing small cracks or chips in the enamel. A nightguard cushions this pressure and may help lessen the effects of grinding over time. - Reduces Jaw Muscle Strain:
When your jaw muscles are clenched all night, they can become sore or fatigued. Wearing a nightguard can help ease jaw muscle tension during sleep. - Helps Protect Existing Dental Work:
If you have fillings, crowns, or veneers, a nightguard may provide an extra layer of cushioning from nighttime grinding or clenching. This may help maintain your dental restorations. - May Help Ease Headaches and Morning Discomfort:
Teeth grinding can cause headaches, neck pain, and morning jaw pain. A properly fitted nightguard may help ease these symptoms by reducing pressure during sleep.
We provide occlusal splints in Bunbury designed to cushion the effects of teeth grinding and promote jaw comfort during sleep. If you think you might benefit from one, we’re here to help with honest advice and personalised care. Individual results may vary, and your dentist can help determine a suitable approach based on your oral health.
Should I wear my nightguard every night?
Yes, we usually advise wearing your nightguard nightly to help lessen the effects of grinding and clenching during sleep. Regular use may help decrease tooth wear, jaw discomfort, and morning headaches. Skipping nights can allow damage to build up again, especially if symptoms are already present. Wearing it consistently may help reduce grinding-related symptoms and support oral health over time; however, individual results may vary.
Even if you don’t notice symptoms every night, grinding can still happen without you realising. A custom-fitted nightguard works effectively when used regularly and as directed. If your nightguard feels uncomfortable, please contact us so we can adjust it to fit more comfortably. We’ll help you protect your teeth and maintain their strength and appearance for the long term.
Do nightguards prevent grinding?
Nightguards do not prevent teeth grinding, but they help lessen the impact of clenching or grinding during sleep. At Eversmile Dental, we custom-fit nightguards to provide cushioning and help reduce jaw pressure. This may help reduce the risk of enamel wear, minor chips, and jaw discomfort, which are commonly associated with grinding.
We also monitor your symptoms over time and adjust your nightguard as needed to support comfort and protection. Some patients report fewer headaches and jaw pain after consistently wearing their nightguard. Managing stress and improving sleep can further reduce grinding, and we may suggest other options if needed. Every treatment plan is tailored to suit your dental needs.
Do nightguards help with jaw pain?
Some people find that a custom-fitted nightguard can help ease jaw discomfort caused by teeth grinding or clenching during sleep. Below are general reasons why nightguards are commonly considered part of a dental approach to managing these symptoms.
- Reduces Pressure on the Jaw Joints:
Custom-fitted nightguards create a protective layer between your upper and lower teeth, assist in reducing pressure on the temporomandibular joints. They are not designed to stop grinding, but may help reduce its effects. - Protects Against Tooth Wear and Muscle Strain:
Nightguards cushion the teeth to limit enamel wear caused by grinding. They may help ease jaw muscle tension often linked with soreness. - Encourages a More Relaxed Jaw Position:
A properly fitted nightguard is designed to support a more comfortable jaw position during sleep. This may help reduce tension-related pain. - May Help Prevent Headaches Linked to Clenching:
Some individuals who clench their jaw at night report fewer tension headaches with regular nightguard use. The nightguard helps reduce muscle strain from overnight clenching. - Supports an Ongoing Management Plan:
Nightguards do not address the root cause of jaw pain, but they can help manage symptoms associated with grinding and clenching. They are often part of a dental plan that includes professional assessment, regular monitoring, and tailored care.
If you’re experiencing jaw discomfort, a dentist can assess your symptoms during a consultation to determine the cause. We will recommend an appropriate device for teeth grinding protection for Bunbury patients based on your symptoms and oral health needs.
Can you still clench or grind with a nightguard?
Yes, it is still possible to clench or grind your teeth while wearing a nightguard. The nightguard doesn’t prevent the action itself—it cushions the effects. It can lessen the impact of clenching or grinding on your teeth and jaw. Many patients report that symptoms like soreness or headaches improve with regular nightguard use.
At our dental clinic, we customise each nightguard to support comfort and, where possible, help reduce pressure. While it won’t prevent grinding, it can help reduce the effects of wear on your teeth and dental work. We’ll also examine the underlying causes of your clenching for long-term management and comfort. We may suggest additional strategies, in addition to the nightguard, to help manage the habit.
Why does my bite feel off after wearing a night guard?
Wearing a nightguard may temporarily alter how your teeth meet during sleep as your mouth adjusts. This is a common experience, particularly in the first few weeks, as your mouth adjusts to wearing the new nightguard. If the nightguard doesn’t fit properly, it may place uneven pressure on certain teeth, making your bite feel slightly different.
We carefully adjust each nightguard to support a balanced, comfortable bite for long-term use. If your bite still feels off, we encourage you to return so we can review the fit. A quick adjustment can usually relieve the issue and restore comfort. Your comfort and oral health are always our priorities.
What is the difference between a night guard and a bite guard?
Many patients ask us about the difference between nightguards and bite guards. While they may look alike, they serve different purposes depending on your dental needs. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the difference between custom nightguards vs. over-the-counter options:
Nightguard:
- A nightguard is worn while you sleep to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching (a condition known as bruxism).
- It is custom-fitted to your bite and designed to reduce overnight wear and tear on your teeth.
- Nightguards are usually made from softer or dual-layer materials to cushion the pressure from grinding.
- They are ideal for patients who wake up with headaches, jaw pain, or signs of worn-down teeth.
- Nightguards may assist in reducing wear on teeth and dental work such as crowns or veneers.
Bite Guard:
- A bite guard is often worn during the day. It helps manage jaw alignment, posture, or clenching-related tension.
- It may be part of a treatment plan for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) concerns or to support proper bite positioning.
- Bite guards can be firmer than nightguards, depending on the purpose, and are typically worn for shorter periods.
- They’re sometimes used for diagnostic purposes to evaluate how your bite affects your jaw muscles and joints.
- Unlike sports mouthguards, bite guards are designed for therapeutic use rather than physical protection.
The right option depends on your symptoms. It also depends on what’s happening with your teeth and jaw function. We’re happy to assess your bite and recommend the option that suits your dental health and comfort.
Are over-the-counter night guards safe?
Over-the-counter nightguards can offer basic protection, but they often don’t fit well and may feel bulky or uncomfortable. Because they’re not custom-made, they may shift during sleep, which can affect their comfort and effectiveness. Some patients report experiencing jaw discomfort or continued grinding when using them. We advise consulting a dentist before regular use.
A custom nightguard is designed to fit your exact bite, helping evenly redistribute pressure across your jaw and teeth. This may offer improved comfort and protection compared to generic options; however, effectiveness varies among individuals. If you’re unsure what’s right for you, our Bunbury dental team can help you weigh your options during a consultation.
How long does a custom night guard last?
A custom nightguard’s lifespan depends on how often you wear it and how severe your grinding habits are. Proper cleaning and care also play a big role in how long your nightguard may continue to support tooth protection over time. We take the time to guide each patient on maintenance and follow-up to get the most from their dental appliance. Here’s what you can expect:
- Lifespan:
Most custom nightguards can last for years with regular use and proper care. However, this can vary depending on individual grinding habits and the frequency of nightguard use. - Heavy Grinding or Clenching May Shorten Its Lifespan:
If you grind your teeth very forcefully, your night guard may wear down more quickly and require replacement sooner. - Nightguard Material:
The type of material used affects durability. Softer nightguards may feel more comfortable, but they can wear out faster than firmer materials designed for long-term protection. - Routine Dental Checkups Help Extend Its Use:
Regular checkups allow us to identify early signs of wear and maintain a comfortable, proper fit for your nightguard. This reduces the need for early replacements and helps keep your nightguard fitting well and functioning as intended. - Proper Care Makes a Big Difference:
Clean your night guard daily using lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush to remove plaque and prevent bacterial buildup. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface and reduce the lifespan of your nightguard over time.
If you’re wondering whether your nightguard still functions properly, we can assess it at your next appointment. We’ll check the fit and condition to see if it’s still working effectively for your teeth and jaw.
What are the drawbacks of night guards?
Nightguards are a useful dental appliance for managing teeth grinding and jaw tension. It’s still important to understand their possible limitations.
- Initial Adjustment Period:
Some individuals may find their new nightguard uncomfortable during the first few nights of use. This happens because the mouth needs time to adjust to the dental appliance. - Ongoing Cleaning Required:
Nightguards must be cleaned regularly to maintain their freshness and hygiene. If not cleaned, bacteria and odours can build up. - Replacement Over Time:
Nightguards can wear down with regular use, especially if you grind your teeth frequently during sleep. They may need to be replaced every few years to maintain consistent comfort and function. - Not a Treatment for Grinding:
A nightguard won’t prevent you from grinding your teeth, but it may assist in lessening wear and stress on your teeth. The cause of grinding, such as stress or jaw alignment issues, may still need separate attention or treatment. - Risk of Poor Fit if Not Custom-Made:
Over-the-counter nightguards may not fit properly and may feel uncomfortable during sleep. A poor fit could also affect how your bite feels if worn long-term without supervision.
We believe in providing our patients with honest information and helping them make informed decisions about their oral health care. If you’re considering nightguards in Bunbury, we’ll guide you through the pros and cons during your consultation.
How much does a nightguard cost in Bunbury?
When considering occlusal splints in Bunbury, it’s natural to wonder about the cost. Below are key factors that influence the overall cost of having a nightguard made by a dental professional.
- Custom fit and personalisation:
A professionally fitted nightguard requires detailed impressions and a custom design tailored to your bite. This personalised approach can contribute to a higher overall cost. - The type and quality of materials:
Custom nightguards are made from high-quality, dental-grade materials designed for regular use. The quality and type of material selected will impact the overall cost. - Comprehensive dental assessment:
Before prescribing a nightguard, your dentist conducts a thorough examination to evaluate your teeth, jaw, and bite. This level of care and diagnosis contributes to the cost. - Dental laboratory work:
Nightguards are often fabricated by skilled dental technicians. This professional craftsmanship and use of precise dental technology add to the total cost. - Follow-up appointments and adjustments:
After your nightguard is fitted, your dentist may schedule reviews to assess fit and comfort. These follow-up visits and potential refinements are part of the service and can affect the total price. - Location of the dental clinic:
The cost of dental services can vary depending on your location. Clinics in regional areas, such as Bunbury, may have different pricing structures compared to those in major cities. - Dentist’s experience:
The training, experience, and clinical judgment of your dentist also play a role. Dentists with extensive experience managing bruxism may have differing fee structures.
The nightguard cost in Bunbury varies based on your individual needs, the materials used, and the level of customisation required. Consult with your dentist to understand the factors that affect the cost. We’ll explain what’s involved and help you decide if a custom nightguard is the right option for your needs.
What can I use instead of a night guard for grinding?
At Eversmile Dental, we know a nightguard isn’t the only option for managing teeth grinding during sleep. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as reducing caffeine or alcohol may help lower grinding intensity. We also explore muscle relaxation techniques or jaw exercises tailored to your specific needs. Our team will always recommend options that are evidence-based and suited to your dental health.
If your grinding is linked to stress, we may suggest stress management strategies or refer you to a health professional. For certain patients, improving sleep posture or addressing underlying sleep issues can also reduce clenching. We’ll assess your symptoms carefully and provide honest guidance without making unrealistic claims. Our goal is to protect your smile and improve your comfort with the most appropriate approach.
