Night guards in San Antonio, TX help protect your teeth from grinding, clenching, and the long-term damage caused by stress on your jaw. At Fountain of Youth Dental, Dr. Chris Cappetta uses custom-fitted night guards to provide comfort and protection for patients across Shavano Park, Oak Hills, Leon Valley, and Stone Oak. With over 35 years of experience and advanced training in restorative and preventive care, Dr. Cappetta designs night guards that fit perfectly, allowing you to sleep comfortably while protecting your teeth.
If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity, a custom night guard can help you prevent serious dental problems and preserve your natural smile.
Why You Might Need a Night Guard
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, often happens during sleep and may go unnoticed until symptoms develop. The constant pressure wears down enamel, causes jaw discomfort, and can even lead to cracked teeth.
A night guard acts as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, reducing pressure and preventing damage. Patients from Shavano Park and Leon Valley often report better sleep and fewer headaches once they start using their custom device.
Signs You May Be Grinding Your Teeth
You might not realize you grind your teeth at night, but there are warning signs to watch for. Identifying these early helps you get relief before lasting damage occurs.
- Jaw or facial pain upon waking
- Flattened, chipped, or worn-down teeth
- Frequent morning headaches
- Tightness in the jaw or neck
- Increased tooth sensitivity
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, Dr. Cappetta can evaluate your bite and determine whether a night guard can help protect your teeth.
Benefits of Custom Night Guards
Custom night guards are designed specifically for your mouth, offering a precise fit and better protection than store-bought options.
- Prevents enamel wear and tooth fractures
- Reduces jaw tension and morning discomfort
- Helps prevent TMJ issues from grinding stress
- Improves sleep quality by reducing strain
- Lasts longer and fits comfortably
Patients in Oak Hills and Stone Oak appreciate the comfort and durability of Dr. Cappetta’s night guards. Each appliance is made from high-quality materials for a perfect balance of strength and flexibility.
Custom Night Guards vs. Over-the-Counter Guards
| Type | Fit | Durability | Comfort | Effectiveness |
| Custom Night Guard | Made from precise dental impressions | Lasts several years | Excellent comfort | Maximum protection |
| Boil-and-Bite Guard | Semi-custom | Short-term use | Moderate comfort | Partial protection |
| Stock Guard | One-size-fits-all | Least durable | Poor comfort | Minimal protection |
Custom night guards offer the best protection for long-term use. Dr. Cappetta takes precise impressions to ensure your guard fits comfortably and stays secure while you sleep.
How a Custom Night Guard Is Made
Creating your night guard is simple and efficient. During your first visit, Dr. Cappetta takes detailed impressions or digital scans of your teeth. These are sent to a professional lab where your custom guard is crafted for an exact fit.
Once it’s ready, you’ll return for a fitting appointment to ensure it feels comfortable and functions properly. Adjustments can be made on the spot to guarantee a snug, effective fit. The process is quick, and patients from Leon Valley and Shavano Park often receive their night guards within one to two weeks.
Caring for Your Night Guard
Taking care of your custom appliance helps it last longer and stay clean. Follow these simple steps to keep your night guard in great condition.
- Rinse your night guard with warm water after each use
- Clean it daily using mild soap or denture cleaner
- Store it in a ventilated case
- Bring it to your dental visits for inspection
Patients in Oak Hills and Stone Oak who follow these care tips often enjoy their night guards for many years. Proper care prevents buildup and keeps the appliance fresh and comfortable.
Night Guards and TMJ Relief
Night guards not only protect teeth but also reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This helps relieve symptoms like jaw clicking, pain, and stiffness. By keeping your bite in a neutral position, night guards can minimize strain on facial muscles and joints.
Dr. Cappetta designs guards that target both bruxism and TMJ discomfort, offering a preventive solution that improves your overall quality of life. Many patients report better sleep, reduced jaw pain, and fewer morning headaches after consistent use.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you think you might be grinding your teeth or have jaw pain, it’s time to protect your smile. Fountain of Youth Dental offers custom night guards for patients from Shavano Park, Oak Hills, Leon Valley, and Stone Oak.
Dr. Chris Cappetta’s advanced training and personalized care ensure every patient receives a comfortable, durable solution that fits perfectly. Schedule your consultation today to find out how a custom night guard can protect your teeth and improve your sleep.
