Night guards, also known as occlusal splints or bite guards, are custom-made dental appliances designed to protect teeth and jaw joints from the harmful effects of teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching. At A1 Aesthetics, we specialise in fabricating high-quality, durable night guards tailored to provide comfort, protection, and long-term relief for patients.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a removable dental device that fits over the upper or lower teeth, forming a protective barrier. It prevents direct contact between teeth, reducing wear, chipping, and strain caused by grinding or clenching during sleep.
Unlike over-the-counter options, our custom-made night guards are created from impressions or digital scans to ensure an exact fit, superior comfort, and long-lasting durability.
Why Are Night Guards Needed?
Bruxism affects a significant number of adults and even children. Many people are unaware they grind or clench their teeth until they experience symptoms or their dentist notices the signs. Left untreated, it can cause:
Excessive tooth wear, fractures, or sensitivity
Headaches and facial pain
Jaw joint (TMJ) problems, such as clicking or stiffness
Gum recession and tooth mobility in severe cases
Poor sleep quality due to clenching and tension
Night guards are a simple but effective solution to prevent long-term damage and improve quality of life.
Benefits of a Custom Night Guard
Choosing a professionally fabricated night guard offers several advantages:
Tooth Protection – Prevents enamel wear, chips, and cracks caused by grinding.
Jaw Relief – Reduces strain on jaw joints and muscles, minimising TMJ discomfort.
Better Sleep – Helps patients sleep more comfortably without clenching tension.
Durability – Made from high-quality acrylic or thermoplastic materials for long-lasting use.
Custom Fit – Designed for comfort and retention, avoiding irritation common with generic guards.
Cost-Effective – Prevents costly restorative treatments like crowns, bridges, or implants by preserving natural teeth.
Types of Night Guards
At A1 Aesthetics, we provide different options to suit patient needs:
Soft Night Guards – Flexible and comfortable, ideal for mild grinding or first-time users.
Hard Night Guards – Rigid and durable, suitable for heavy grinding or severe bruxism cases.
Dual-Laminate Night Guards – Combine a soft inner layer for comfort with a hard outer layer for strength.
Dentists can prescribe the most appropriate type depending on the severity of the patient’s condition.
The Process of Getting a Night Guard
Assessment – The dentist evaluates symptoms and recommends a suitable night guard.
Impressions/Scans – Accurate moulds or digital scans are taken of the patient’s teeth.
Laboratory Fabrication – Our technicians craft the night guard using high-quality materials.
Fitting & Adjustments – The dentist ensures a precise fit and makes adjustments if required.
Caring for a Night Guard
With proper care, a night guard can last several years. Patients should:
Rinse before and after each use
Brush gently with a soft toothbrush (no toothpaste)
Store in a ventilated case when not in use
Avoid hot water, which can warp the material
Bring it to dental check-ups for cleaning and inspection
Why Choose A1 Aesthetics?
With over 30 years of expertise, A1 Aesthetics is trusted by dentists for precision-crafted night guards. Our team ensures:
Comfortable, accurate, and long-lasting appliances
Quick turnaround and reliable service
DAMAS-authorised quality assurance
Support for both NHS and private practices
Night guards are a small investment that make a big difference in protecting smiles, improving sleep, and preventing long-term dental issues. At A1 Aesthetics, we are committed to helping dentists provide their patients with the protection and comfort they deserve.