Custom Nightguard for Teeth Grinding
A custom nightguard helps protect teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching during sleep. It creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing wear on the teeth and helping protect existing restorations. Some patients also notice less jaw muscle fatigue on waking.
Or call us: +65 6904 8482
What is a nightguard?
A nightguard is a custom-fitted appliance made from impressions of your teeth. It fits over either the upper or lower teeth and is worn during sleep. The appliance creates a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from making direct contact during grinding or clenching.
Unlike over-the-counter boil-and-bite guards, a custom nightguard is made from a precise impression of your teeth and fitted specifically to your bite. This gives a more accurate fit, greater comfort for long-term wear, and better protection for the tooth surfaces and any existing restorations.
What a nightguard does
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Helps reduce the forces placed on the teeth during grinding and clenching
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Prevents direct tooth-on-tooth contact during sleep
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Protects existing fillings, crowns, and other restorations from accelerated wear
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May reduce jaw muscle fatigue associated with nighttime clenching in some patients
What a nightguard does not do
A nightguard does not stop the grinding habit itself. It protects the teeth from the effects of grinding. Patients who wear a nightguard consistently generally place less wear on their teeth than patients who continue grinding without protection, but the guard needs to be worn regularly to be effective.
Who should consider a nightguard?
A nightguard is worth considering if any of the following apply.
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Your teeth show visible signs of wear, flattening, or chipping on the biting edges
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You wake with jaw tightness, muscle soreness, or sensitive teeth that improve during the day
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You have been told by a partner that you grind during sleep
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Fillings or crowns are wearing down or breaking more frequently than expected
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You have notches or grooves near the gumline consistent with clenching forces
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You are having restorative work done and want to protect the new restorations
See our teeth grinding page for more on the signs and effects of bruxism.
How is a nightguard made at Penn Pacific Dental Center?
Getting a custom nightguard at Penn Pacific Dental Center involves two straightforward appointments.
First appointment — impressions and assessment
The dentist examines the teeth for signs of wear, assesses the bite, and takes impressions of the upper and lower teeth. The impressions are used to fabricate the nightguard to the precise shape of your teeth. The appointment typically takes around 30 minutes.
Second appointment — fitting and adjustment
Once the nightguard is ready, it is fitted and adjusted at a second appointment. The fit and bite are checked carefully to ensure the appliance sits comfortably and functions as intended. Any adjustments needed are made at the chairside. The appointment typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes.
Wearing and caring for your nightguard
The nightguard is worn every night for it to be effective. It should be rinsed after use and stored in the case provided. It is checked at regular dental visits for wear and fit. Like any appliance worn regularly in the mouth, a nightguard has a natural lifespan. Most patients replace their nightguard every two to three years, whether due to wear from grinding or for hygiene purposes. Patients who grind heavily may need replacement sooner.
Nightguard assessments at Penn Pacific Dental Center
Nightguard assessments at Penn Pacific Dental Center are carried out by our dentists as part of a broader evaluation of grinding patterns, tooth wear, and existing restorations. The type of guard recommended depends on the findings and the goals of treatment.
Dr. Barry Yu
Dr. Barry Yu completed his dental degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and holds an undergraduate degree with Honours in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of California, Davis. He has pursued postgraduate training in endodontics and is licensed to practise in Singapore and in the State of California.
Dr. Chrissie Lam
Dr. Chrissie Lam trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco and holds an undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley. She has been based in Singapore since 2013.
Common questions about nightguards in Singapore
How much does a nightguard cost in Singapore?
The fee for a custom dual layer nightguard at Penn Pacific Dental Center is $750. WhatsApp us or book an appointment if you have any questions before coming in.
Is a custom nightguard better than one from a pharmacy?
A custom nightguard is made from a precise impression of your teeth and fitted to your specific bite. Over-the-counter guards are generic in shape and often bulkier, which can make them uncomfortable to wear consistently. A custom guard is generally more comfortable for long-term nightly use and provides more accurate protection for the tooth surfaces.
How long does a nightguard last?
Like any appliance worn regularly in the mouth, a nightguard has a natural lifespan. Most patients replace their nightguard every two to three years, whether due to wear from grinding or for hygiene purposes. Patients who grind heavily may need replacement sooner. The nightguard is checked at regular dental visits and replaced when needed.
Will I get used to wearing a nightguard?
Most patients adjust within a few nights to a couple of weeks. The first few nights can feel slightly unfamiliar. A well-fitted custom guard is designed to be as comfortable as possible, and most patients find it easy to wear consistently once accustomed to it.
Can a nightguard help with jaw soreness on waking?
A nightguard may help reduce jaw muscle fatigue associated with nighttime clenching in some patients. It reduces the forces placed on the teeth and supporting structures during grinding. Jaw soreness can have multiple contributing factors and does not always resolve with a nightguard alone, but many patients notice an improvement with consistent wear.
Is Penn Pacific Dental Center near Tanjong Pagar MRT?
Yes. The clinic is at 160 Robinson Road, #05-14 SBF Center, a short walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT (East-West Line). It is also accessible from Shenton Way MRT (Thomson-East Coast Line) and Telok Ayer MRT (Downtown Line).
Book a nightguard appointment at Penn Pacific Dental Center
Getting a nightguard takes two short appointments. Penn Pacific Dental Center is at 160 Robinson Road, near Tanjong Pagar MRT. Book an appointment or WhatsApp us and we will arrange a convenient time. First-time patients are welcome.
Or call us: +65 6904 8482