Dental Night Guards in Somerville, MA
Protect Your Smile While You Sleep
At Anthony P. Parrella, DMD, we offer custom-fitted night guards designed to protect your teeth from nighttime grinding (bruxism), clenching, and the damage they cause. Made with comfort and durability in mind, our night guards help preserve your smile, reduce jaw pain, and support better sleep.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard—also known as an occlusal guard or bite splint—is a removable oral appliance worn over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. It acts as a protective barrier between the teeth, absorbing the pressure of grinding and clenching to prevent wear, fractures, and jaw discomfort.
Unlike over-the-counter guards, our custom-made night guards are molded to fit your unique bite, offering a more secure, comfortable, and effective solution.
Why You Might Need a Night Guard
Nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism) is a common condition, often related to stress, bite imbalance, or sleep disorders. Many people are unaware they grind their teeth until noticeable symptoms or damage appear.
Signs You May Need a Night Guard:
- Waking up with jaw pain or headaches
- Chipped, worn, or flattened teeth
- Tooth sensitivity without decay
- Tight or sore jaw muscles
- Clicking or popping of the jaw (TMJ symptoms)
- Cracked or broken dental restorations
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, a night guard could be a simple, non-invasive way to protect your smile.
Benefits of Wearing a Night Guard
Wearing a custom night guard can deliver several important benefits:
- Prevents premature wear, fractures, and enamel erosion
- Reduces jaw tension, headaches, and TMJ discomfort
- Protects crowns, veneers, and other restorations
- Minimizes risk of future dental work caused by grinding
- Helps promote better, more restful sleep
- Can improve overall bite alignment over time
What to Expect
Getting your night guard is a simple, comfortable process that typically requires two short visits:
- Initial Exam & Impressions: Dr. Parrella will examine your teeth and jaw, discuss your symptoms, and take precise impressions or digital scans of your bite.
- Custom Fabrication: Your impressions are sent to a trusted dental lab where your guard is created using high-quality, BPA-free materials designed for durability and comfort.
- Fitting & Instructions: Once your guard is ready, we’ll ensure a proper fit, make any necessary adjustments, and provide you with easy care and usage instructions.
Care & Maintenance
To ensure your night guard lasts and stays hygienic:
- Rinse it with cool water after each use
- Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner
- Store it in a ventilated case when not in use
- Avoid exposing it to heat (which can cause warping)
- Bring it to your dental checkups for inspection and cleaning
With proper care, most night guards last 3–5 years or longer.
Protect Your Smile from Nighttime Damage
If you’re waking up with jaw pain or noticing wear on your teeth, it may be time to explore your options. A custom night guard can provide the comfort and protection you need—without complicated or invasive treatments.
We’ll confirm your visit and answer any questions.
Let’s Connect — We’d Love to Hear from You
Whether you have a question, need to reschedule, or are ready to book your first visit, our friendly team is here to help. Reach out anytime — we're happy to assist you.
Phone: (617) 625‑3022
Email: office@drparrella.com