Dental Guards & Appliances in North Langley
Custom dental appliances can help protect your teeth, support your bite, and improve comfort in everyday life. At AltaVia Dental, we offer custom-made dental guards and appliances designed around your individual needs, including night guards, retainers, sports mouth guards, and appliances that may be used as part of TMJ or TMD care.
Because these appliances are created specifically for your mouth, they are generally more comfortable, secure, and durable than many over-the-counter alternatives.
Grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep can place significant pressure on your teeth, jaw muscles, and jaw joints. Over time, this may contribute to tooth wear, chips or fractures, headaches, jaw discomfort, or sensitivity.
A custom night guard creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth and can help reduce the effects of grinding and clenching while you sleep.
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth and can happen during the day or while sleeping. Some patients are unaware they are doing it until their dentist notices signs of wear during an examination.
Possible signs of bruxism include:
- Flattened or worn tooth surfaces
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Jaw tightness or tenderness
- Morning headaches
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tired or sore facial muscles
- Changes in the way the teeth fit together
If we notice signs of grinding or clenching, we can assess your bite and discuss whether a custom night guard may be appropriate.
Retainers help maintain the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. Because teeth can gradually shift over time, consistent retainer use can help protect the results of your treatment.
If your existing retainer is damaged, worn, lost, or no longer fits properly, our team can assess your teeth and discuss replacement options.
A properly fitted sports mouth guard can help protect the teeth, lips, cheeks, and other oral tissues during athletic activity.
Custom sports mouth guards are designed specifically for your teeth, providing a secure and comfortable fit without the bulk that can come with some store-bought options.
They may be recommended for children, teenagers, and adults participating in contact or impact sports.
The temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, connect your lower jaw to your skull and allow your jaw to move when you speak, chew, and yawn.
Problems affecting these joints and the surrounding muscles are often referred to as temporomandibular disorders, or TMD.
Symptoms may include jaw discomfort, clicking or popping, muscle tension, headaches, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth comfortably. Depending on the cause of your symptoms, a custom dental appliance may be one part of your treatment plan. Your dentist will assess your teeth, bite, jaw joints, and symptoms before recommending the most appropriate approach.
Custom Dental Appliances at AltaVia Dental
Dental appliances should do more than simply fit — they should feel comfortable, function properly, and support your long-term oral health.
At AltaVia Dental, we take the time to assess your individual needs and create custom solutions designed to protect your teeth and help you feel more comfortable.
If you are experiencing tooth grinding, jaw discomfort, need a new retainer, or are looking for a custom sports mouth guard, our North Langley dental team would be happy to help.