South Houston Occlusal Guard/Night Guard — Matouk Family Dentistry
Protect Your Smile with Custom South Houston Night Guards and Dental Splints
Looking for South Houston occlusal guard? An occlusal guard or night guard might be exactly what you need. Many patients grind or clench their teeth at night without realizing it—leading to headaches, cracked teeth, and long-term jaw issues like TMD.
At Matouk Family Dentistry, we understand how frustrating this can be. That’s why we offer custom-fit night guards and occlusal splint therapy designed specifically for your bite. No messy impressions here—we use a digital scanner for a faster, cleaner, and more precise fit.
Dr. Christina Matouk, a top-rated dentist, takes a thoughtful, one-on-one approach to care, so your guard actually works the way it should. Relief is possible—and it starts with one easy appointment. Call today and protect your smile before the damage gets worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an occlusal guard, and why might you need one?
An occlusal guard is a removable appliance worn over the teeth, typically at night, to protect against nighttime grinding or clenching. Many people experience teeth grinding without realizing it, leading to worn enamel, jaw discomfort, or even cracked teeth. This device, also known as a dental occlusal appliance, helps relieve stress on the temporomandibular joint and preserves the integrity of your bite. You might need one if you:
- Wake up with headaches or sore jaw muscles
- Notice chipped or flattened teeth
- Experience clicking or popping in the jaw
- Have been diagnosed with TMD or bruxism
Our dental clinic uses precise digital scans to create a custom-fitted night guard that fits comfortably and protects your smile during sleep.
What is the difference between a night guard and a bite splint?
While both help manage teeth grinding and jaw tension, a night guard and bite splint serve slightly different purposes:
- A night guard is primarily designed to prevent enamel wear from nighttime grinding and clenching.
- A bite splint, also called an occlusal splint, is often used as part of occlusal splint therapy for patients with jaw misalignment or TMD.
Night guard treatment focuses on cushioning teeth, while bite guard treatment may include adjusting jaw position. Our dental office offers both options and recommends the right device based on your bite, symptoms, and clinical findings. Every custom-fitted mouth guard we provide is created using a digital scan for precise comfort and long-term protection.
What are the benefits of mouth guard/bite splints?
Mouth guards and bite splints offer long-term protection and comfort, especially for patients dealing with bruxism, TMD, or frequent headaches. Here’s what they can do:
- Protect teeth from wear, cracks, and chipping
- Reduce jaw pain and muscle tension
- Prevent morning headaches and facial soreness
- Improve sleep quality by relieving pressure on the jaw
- Prevent costly dental repairs over time
A custom guard made by a qualified dentist offers better protection than over-the-counter options. Our dental clinic crafts custom-fitted night guards and dental splints with precision to ensure you get the most out of your investment.
Is it worth getting dental guards from a dentist?
Yes, absolutely. A dental guard from a dentist is specifically tailored to your bite and oral health needs. Unlike generic guards bought online or at a pharmacy, a custom-fitted mouth guard made in a dental office:
- Fits securely and comfortably
- Lasts longer due to higher-quality materials
- Offers better protection for teeth grinding and TMD
- Reduces the risk of gum irritation or misalignment
- Can be adjusted as needed over time
When it comes to bite guard treatment or occlusal splint therapy, precision matters. Dr. Matouk’s experience and use of digital scans ensure each occlusal guard we provide is accurate, effective, and comfortable for nightly use.
How much does an occlusal guard cost?
The cost of an occlusal guard varies based on factors like material, customization, and whether your insurance covers part of the treatment. At our dental office, the average price ranges between $1,200 to $1,500. While store-bought guards may seem cheaper, they often lack durability and proper fit. With a professionally made custom guard, you get:
- High-grade material
- Accurate fit using digital scans
- Longer-lasting appliance
- Professional care and adjustments
Some insurance plans partially cover night guard treatment or bite guard treatment, so it’s worth checking with your provider. We’re happy to help you understand your options at our South Houston dental clinic.
Is it good to sleep with a teeth guard?
Yes, sleeping with a teeth guard is beneficial—especially if you suffer from nighttime grinding, jaw soreness, or TMD symptoms. A custom-fitted night guard protects your enamel and reduces strain on your jaw muscles during sleep. Here’s why dentists recommend it:
- Prevents long-term tooth damage
- Alleviates tension in the jaw
- Promotes better sleep
- Reduces the risk of costly future dental work
- Helps with bite alignment in some cases
Wearing a mouth guard every night can significantly improve oral health and comfort. Our dental clinic offers custom-fitted bite guards and occlusal splints that are easy to wear and built for real results.
Your Trusted Local Dentist for Occlusal Splint Therapy in Harris County
We provide custom occlusal guards and dental splints for patients dealing with clenching, grinding, and jaw tension. Whether you’re managing TMD symptoms or looking to protect dental work, our dental office offers personalized Bite Guard treatment plans for all ages.
Comprehensive Dental Exam
Every occlusal splint therapy begins with a complete dental evaluation. Dr. Matouk examines your teeth, jaw movement, and bite alignment to understand your specific needs. This step helps us recommend the right dental guard to protect your smile and relieve tension caused by bruxism or bite imbalance.
Bruxism and TMD Diagnosis
We identify the signs of bruxism and Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction through a detailed clinical assessment. Jaw clicking, headaches, and worn enamel are common indicators. Our goal is to pinpoint the root cause and determine whether a mouth guard, occlusal splint, or bite splint is the right solution for long-term relief.
Custom Night Guard Fitting (Occlusal Guard)
Dr. Matouk designs each occlusal guard to match the exact contour of your bite. We ensure the night guard fits snugly and comfortably so you can wear it nightly without irritation. These guards are durable and built to reduce stress on the jaw and prevent damage from grinding or clenching.
Digital Impressions or Intraoral Scanning
Forget the messy trays. Our dental clinic uses an advanced intraoral scanner to capture a precise digital model of your teeth. This modern technique allows us to fabricate highly accurate dental splints and mouth guards without the discomfort of traditional impressions.
Occlusal Adjustment / Bite Equilibration
Sometimes a slight imbalance in your bite can lead to muscle strain or joint discomfort. Dr. Matouk performs careful occlusal adjustments to fine-tune how your teeth meet. This step complements your Bite Guard treatment and helps reduce pressure points that worsen TMD symptoms.
Guard Delivery & Fit Check Appointment
Once your occlusal guard is ready, we’ll check its fit in our dental office and make any necessary adjustments. You’ll leave with a comfortable, protective solution designed to support your oral health. We also provide tips on care and maintenance to ensure your bite splint lasts.
Schedule Your Occlusal Guard Fitting Today with a Highly-Rated Greater Houston Dentist
If grinding, jaw pain, or morning headaches are part of your daily life, it’s time to find relief. At Matouk Family Dentistry, we create high-quality occlusal guards using digital scanning for comfort and precision. Dr. Christina Matouk is a trusted dentist serving South Houston, Friendswood, Pearland, Pasadena, and nearby areas.
With personalized care, warranty-backed appliances, and emergency support, we’re here to protect your smile every step of the way. Don’t wait—call us at (281) 484-3675, fill out our contact form, or visit our website to learn more about our Occlusal Splint therapy and Bite Guard treatment options.