When it may help
A guard may be considered when grinding or clenching is damaging teeth. Jaw soreness or morning headaches can have several causes, so an examination comes before choosing an appliance.
Comfort & repair · Los Gatos

The essentials
Grinding and clenching can wear or damage teeth. A custom night guard separates the teeth to help protect them. An exam helps determine whether a guard is appropriate and whether your symptoms need other evaluation.
Plan your visit
Why it helps
What to expect
Here’s how it usually goes with our team. We explain each step as we go, with time for every question.
Plan your visit
A guard may be considered when grinding or clenching is damaging teeth. Jaw soreness or morning headaches can have several causes, so an examination comes before choosing an appliance.
Ask whether monitoring, changes to daytime clenching habits, or evaluation of other contributing factors would be appropriate. A guard is one option in a broader plan, rather than a guaranteed cure for grinding or jaw pain.
Bring any existing guard and describe when symptoms occur. The visit includes a discussion of your symptoms and an examination. If a custom guard is recommended, ask about impressions, fitting, adjustments, and the expected timeline before proceeding.
Preparing for your first visitAsk for cleaning and storage instructions specific to your appliance. Bring it to follow-up visits and contact the office if it no longer fits comfortably or shows damage.
Its main purpose is to separate and protect the teeth. Grinding may continue, and your dentist may discuss other ways to manage contributing factors.
Fit and design differ. Bring any appliance you use so the dentist can assess it and explain whether a custom option would be appropriate.
Ask for an estimate after the recommended appliance and follow-up plan are clear. Insurance benefits depend on your specific plan; the office can help identify what to confirm with your insurer.
General information helps you prepare questions. Your examination and treatment plan determine the right approach for you.
Patient reviews
Real experiences from our patients, shared on Google.
5.0 on Google · 82 Google reviews
“It has been such a pleasure meeting Dr. Chuang and getting an actual treatment plan to help with my TMJ. He constructed a custom dental orthotic for me to wear at night and also taught me some simple massages and exercises to help with my pain. After being given the run around and negligent care from other dentists and health professionals for years, it is truly a relief to find a caring professional who is so knowledgeable about TMJ!”
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