Evaluation
Dr. Shah examines your teeth for wear, assesses your bite, and discusses your grinding symptoms and sleep habits.
Night Guards in Lake Mary, FL
Stop Grinding. Start Protecting.
Treatment Time:2 visits (impressions + fitting)
Wear Schedule:Nightly while sleeping
Custom Fit:Precision lab-fabricated appliance
Durability:3–5 years with proper care
The Problem
Bruxism Is Destroying Your Teeth — Often Without You Knowing
Grinding While You Sleep Has Consequences
Bruxism affects an estimated 10–15% of adults, and most people have no idea they grind their teeth until a partner tells them — or until significant damage is already done. The pressure exerted during grinding can be up to 10 times greater than normal chewing force, wearing down enamel, cracking teeth, and straining the jaw muscles and TMJ. Morning headaches, jaw soreness, tooth sensitivity, and flattened biting surfaces are classic warning signs that grinding is happening while you sleep. Left untreated, bruxism can lead to cracked teeth, failed restorations, receding gums, and chronic TMJ dysfunction — all of which require costly, time-consuming dental work to repair.
A custom-fabricated night guard from Enclave Dental creates a precision barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the forces of grinding and clenching so your enamel and restorations stay intact. Unlike store-bought boil-and-bite guards that fit poorly and can worsen jaw positioning, Dr. Shah's lab-crafted appliances are made from dental-grade materials precisely calibrated to your bite. The guard redistributes grinding pressure evenly, reduces muscle tension in the jaw, and protects existing crowns, veneers, and fillings from premature wear. Most patients report noticeably less jaw soreness and better sleep quality within the first few nights of use.
Understanding Your Treatment
What Is a Custom Night Guard?
Lab-Fabricated Bruxism Protection
A custom night guard is a removable dental appliance worn over the upper or lower teeth during sleep. It is fabricated from hard or semi-rigid dental-grade acrylic based on precise impressions of your teeth, ensuring a snug, stable fit that over-the-counter alternatives cannot replicate. The device works by placing a physical barrier between the opposing arches, preventing direct tooth-on-tooth contact during grinding or clenching episodes.
Bruxism activates the masseter and temporalis muscles — the same powerful muscles used for chewing — at forces far beyond what teeth are designed to withstand during sustained, repetitive contact. Over time, this overloads enamel, micro-fractures teeth, and taxes the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). A properly fitted night guard dissipates that force across the entire arch rather than concentrating it on individual teeth, effectively neutralizing the structural damage while also reducing muscular fatigue. For patients with existing crowns, veneers, or implants, the guard provides an additional layer of protection against premature failure of those restorations.
Treatment Timeline
First Visit
Impressions taken; ~20 minutes
Lab Fabrication
1–2 weeks
Delivery Visit
Fitting and bite adjustment; ~30 minutes
First Relief
Most patients notice reduced soreness within 1–2 weeks of consistent nightly wear
Why Night Guards Work 
Benefits of a Custom Night Guard
Protection You Can Feel
- 01
Precise Fit
Lab-fabricated from your exact impressions for comfortable, stable all-night wear
- 02
Lasting Protection
Durable dental-grade material protects enamel and restorations for 3–5 years
- 03
Jaw Pain Relief
Reduces masseter muscle tension and TMJ stress, easing morning soreness
- 04
Better Sleep Quality
Patients report less disrupted sleep once grinding is cushioned and controlled
- 05
Restoration Preservation
Extends the life of crowns, veneers, and fillings by shielding them from grinding forces
Night Guards vs. Alternatives
Choosing the Right Protection
| Treatment | Fit Accuracy | Protection Level | Comfort | Durability | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Custom Night Guard | Precision lab fit | Maximum — full arch coverage | High — calibrated to your bite | 3–5 years | Moderate (often covered by insurance) | Consistent grinders, TMJ pain, restoration protection |
| Over-the-Counter Night Guard | Generic boil-and-bite | Low — poor seal, shifts during sleep | Low — bulky, may worsen jaw position | 6–12 months | Low ($20–$80) | Occasional mild grinding only |
| Botox for Bruxism | N/A — injection-based | High — reduces muscle force | No appliance required | 3–6 months per treatment | Moderate–High (usually not covered) | Severe muscular grinding, failed appliance tolerance |
Is This Right for You?
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Night Guard?
Signs You May Need One
If you wake up with a sore jaw, dull headaches, or are noticing wear on your teeth, a custom night guard from Dr. Shah at Enclave Dental may be exactly what you need to protect your smile.
Ideal Candidates for a Custom Night Guard
- Adults diagnosed with bruxism (teeth grinding) or jaw clenching
- Patients experiencing morning jaw soreness, facial muscle fatigue, or tension headaches
- Individuals with visible enamel wear, flattened tooth surfaces, or chipped edges
- Patients with existing crowns, veneers, bridges, or implants who want to protect their investment
- Those with TMJ discomfort, clicking, or limited jaw range of motion related to grinding
- Patients in the Sanford, Longwood, Altamonte Springs, Heathrow, Winter Springs, or Casselberry area seeking a dentist near Lake Mary
Who Should Discuss Alternatives First
- Patients with severe TMJ structural disorder that may require specialist evaluation before an appliance
- Children and teens with primary or mixed dentition (a different pediatric appliance may be indicated)
- Patients whose grinding is primarily stress-related and who may also benefit from behavioral or botox approaches alongside the guard
Dr. Shah will review your dental and medical history, evaluate your bite, and examine wear patterns to confirm that a custom night guard is the right protective solution for your situation.
Your Experience
Your Night Guard Process at Enclave Dental
Impressions
Dr. Shah takes precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth, which are sent to our dental lab for fabrication.
Lab Fabrication
Your custom guard is crafted from dental-grade material over 1–2 weeks, shaped exactly to your arch.
Fitting & Adjustment
Dr. Shah seats the guard, checks your bite, and makes any chairside adjustments for comfort and proper occlusion.
Care Instructions
Dr. Shah walks you through cleaning, storage, and what to expect during the first few nights of wear.
Safety & Comfort
Side Effects & Safety Considerations
What to Know Before You Start
Custom night guards are one of the safest protective dental appliances available, with a well-established safety record across decades of clinical use. Most patients experience only minor, temporary adjustment effects.Common Initial Sensations (Usually Resolve Within 1–2 Weeks):
- Increased salivation during the first several nights of wear
- Mild initial discomfort as the jaw muscles and bite adapt to the new appliance
- A temporary feeling of the bite feeling slightly different when the guard is removed in the morning
Less Common Considerations:
- If the guard is not properly adjusted to your bite, it may place uneven pressure on the TMJ — this is why chairside adjustment by Dr. Shah at delivery is essential
- An ill-fitting guard (such as an over-the-counter type) can potentially worsen jaw positioning over time; this is why custom fabrication matters
- Patients with existing TMJ structural disorders should be evaluated by a specialist in addition to using a guard
Maintenance & Safety Notes:
- Clean your guard daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap — never hot water (which can warp the material)
- Store in the vented case provided to prevent warping and bacterial buildup
- If your guard cracks, fits loosely, or causes persistent discomfort, contact Enclave Dental promptly for evaluation
- Guards should be checked annually and typically replaced every 3–5 years depending on grinding severity
Night Guard Cost in Lake Mary, FL
What to Expect at Enclave Dental
The cost of a custom night guard at Enclave Dental in Lake Mary, FL typically ranges from $300–$700, depending on the type of appliance prescribed (hard, soft, or dual-laminate) and the complexity of your bite. This compares to over-the-counter alternatives that cost $20–$80 but offer significantly less protection, durability, and comfort.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Night Guards?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of a custom night guard when bruxism is documented as a clinical diagnosis — often under the dental or medical benefit. Coverage typically ranges from 50–80% of the allowed amount after your deductible, depending on your specific plan. Our front desk team will verify your benefits before your appointment and provide a clear cost estimate so there are no surprises.
Financing Options
Enclave Dental offers flexible payment options, including Cherry, Sunbit, and CareCredit financing, for patients without insurance coverage or with out-of-pocket balances. Ask our team about financing arrangements at the time of your consultation.
The Cost of Not Getting a Night Guard
Consider that a single cracked tooth requiring a crown costs $1,000–$1,800, and a failed veneer or implant can run even higher. A custom night guard at a fraction of that cost is one of the most cost-effective preventive investments you can make for your long-term dental health.
To schedule your night guard consultation at Enclave Dental, call (407) 323-1010 or book online. We serve Lake Mary, Sanford, Longwood, Altamonte Springs, Heathrow, Winter Springs, and Casselberry.
Enclave Dental Difference
Why Choose Enclave Dental in Lake Mary
Expert Care, Custom Results
Personalized Fit Assessment
Dr. Shah analyzes your bite and wear patterns to prescribe the right appliance type and thickness
Lab-Quality Materials
Guards are fabricated by a professional dental lab — not boil-and-bite kits — for superior durability and fit
TMJ-Aware Design
Occlusal adjustments are made chairside to ensure the guard doesn't strain your jaw joint
Ongoing Monitoring
Dr. Shah checks your guard at regular cleanings to assess wear and fit over time
Explore More
All Services
More Dental Services in Lake Mary
Preventive Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
Night Guard FAQs
Your Questions Answered
01 How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Common signs include waking up with jaw soreness or headaches, being told by a partner that you grind, noticing flattened or chipped tooth surfaces, increased tooth sensitivity, and clicking or popping in the jaw joint. Dr. Shah can confirm bruxism during a routine exam by identifying wear patterns on your enamel.
02 What causes teeth grinding?
Bruxism is most commonly linked to stress and anxiety, sleep disorders (especially sleep apnea), and certain medications. Bite misalignment, caffeine consumption, and genetic predisposition also play a role. Addressing root causes alongside wearing a night guard gives the best long-term outcome.
03 Can teeth grinding damage my teeth permanently?
Yes. Chronic bruxism can wear enamel down to the dentin layer, cause cracks and fractures, shorten teeth, damage crowns and veneers, and lead to TMJ disorder. Because enamel does not regenerate, the damage is permanent — making early protection with a night guard critical.
04 How much does a custom night guard cost in Lake Mary?
Custom night guards at Enclave Dental typically range from $300–$700 depending on the appliance type. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion when bruxism is diagnosed. Our team will verify your benefits before your appointment and provide a clear estimate.
05 Does insurance cover a night guard?
Many plans cover 50–80% of the cost when bruxism is clinically documented. Coverage may fall under your dental or medical benefit. Some plans require prior authorization. Enclave Dental's team will check your specific benefits and help you maximize your coverage.
06 What is the difference between a night guard and a mouth guard?
A night guard is designed for sleeping — it is thinner, made for all-night wear comfort, and focuses on protecting teeth from grinding forces. A sports mouth guard (mouthguard) is thicker, built to absorb impact during physical activity, and is not suitable for overnight wear. Enclave Dental offers both types.
Location3232 W Lake Mary Blvd, STE 1400
Lake Mary, FL, 32746
Lake Mary, FL, 32746
Emailinfo@enclave.dental
Phone(407) 323-1010
Ready to Start?
Schedule Your Night Guards Consultation
References
- PubMed (PMID: 25917242) - Systematic review confirming occlusal splints reduce bruxism-related tooth wear and myofascial pain in adults with sleep bruxism.
- PubMed (PMID: 20621806) - Study demonstrating that hard acrylic occlusal splints significantly decrease masseter muscle EMG activity during sleep in bruxism patients.
- PubMed (PMID: 33494290) - Review evaluating the effectiveness of various oral appliances for sleep bruxism management, supporting custom-fabricated devices over OTC alternatives.
- PubMed (PMID: 29558553) - Research on prevalence of sleep bruxism in adults (estimated 8–31%) and association with sleep disorders, stress, and anxiety.