Protect Your Teeth From Grinding and Impact

Custom mouth guard fabrication provided by Gabrielle Dental in Valley Cottage, New York.

If you clench your jaw at night or play contact sports, a custom-fitted mouth guard protects your teeth from cracking, chipping, or wearing down. You might wake up with jaw soreness in Valley Cottage, notice flattened tooth surfaces, or need reliable protection for lacrosse or hockey. Gabrielle Dental creates guards using digital impressions that capture the exact shape of your teeth, ensuring a snug fit that stays in place without causing discomfort or restricting breathing.

The guard is fabricated from durable material designed to absorb force and distribute pressure across the entire surface. Night guards for bruxism are slightly thinner and focus on cushioning the bite, while sports guards are thicker to handle sudden impacts. You receive the finished guard within a short timeframe, and adjustments are made during a brief fitting appointment if needed.

If you need a guard made or replaced in Valley Cottage, contact Gabrielle Dental to schedule an impression appointment.

Why Custom Fit Matters for Comfort and Function

The team in Valley Cottage takes a digital scan of your teeth, which is used to design a guard that fits your bite without gaps or pressure points. In-house 3D printing is available for select appliances, allowing faster turnaround. The material is trimmed and polished so the edges do not irritate your gums or cheeks during wear.

Once you start wearing the guard, you will notice less jaw tension in the morning and reduced sensitivity in teeth that were wearing thin. For athletes, the guard stays in place during quick movements and does not interfere with breathing or speaking. The fit is tight enough to protect but loose enough to remove easily when needed.

Custom guards last longer than over-the-counter options because they are made from higher-grade materials and fit without shifting. You clean the guard daily with a soft brush and store it in a ventilated case. If you notice cracks, thinning, or a loose fit over time, replacement is straightforward and follows the same process.

Common Questions About Guard Use and Care

People often want to know how long a guard lasts, whether it will feel bulky, and if they can talk while wearing it. These answers cover the practical details that come up most.

How long does a custom mouth guard last?
Night guards typically last three to five years with proper care, while sports guards may need replacement sooner depending on frequency of use and impact. You bring it to checkups so the dentist can inspect for wear.
Will I be able to breathe normally while wearing the guard?
Yes. Custom guards are designed to allow normal airflow and do not block your airway. Most people adjust within a few nights and stop noticing it during sleep.
Can I wear a mouth guard if I have braces?
Special guards can be made to fit over braces for sports protection. These guards are bulkier but necessary to prevent brackets from cutting into your lips or cheeks during impact.
How do I clean my mouth guard?
Rinse it with cool water after each use and brush it gently with a toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material, and store it in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup.
What is the difference between a night guard and a sports guard?
Night guards are thinner and designed to cushion grinding forces, while sports guards are thicker and built to absorb sudden impacts. Both are custom-fitted at Gabrielle Dental in Valley Cottage for accuracy and comfort.

If you are grinding your teeth at night or need a guard for sports, Gabrielle Dental can create a custom appliance that fits comfortably and protects effectively. Learn more by scheduling a fitting appointment in Valley Cottage.