Mouth Guards in Westlake Village
A hard plastic tray from a drugstore shelf and a guard shaped to the exact contours of your teeth may look similar, but they feel very different at 2 a.m. or in the fourth quarter of a game. Whether you clench your jaw while you sleep or play a sport where a stray elbow or ball is always possible, a properly fitted mouth guard is one of the simplest ways to protect your smile. At 805 Dentistry, we make custom night guards and sports guards for patients of all ages, and many of the families we see come to our Thousand Oaks office from nearby Westlake Village.
A mouth guard is a removable appliance that covers your teeth to absorb pressure or impact. We offer two types, and each one is designed for a different job. A night guard is worn while you sleep. It places a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, so the force of nighttime clenching or grinding lands on the guard instead of your enamel. A sports guard is worn during athletic activity. It is built to cushion blows to the mouth and face, which helps protect your teeth, lips, and gums during contact or fast-moving play.
The main difference comes down to the problem each guard solves. A night guard handles steady, repeated pressure over many hours, so it is usually slimmer and designed for comfort while you rest. A sports guard handles sudden impact, so it focuses on shock absorption and staying securely in place while you breathe, talk, and move. Some patients need both, such as a high school athlete who also grinds at night, and we can help you sort out which makes sense for you.
Custom guards are made from impressions of your own teeth, so they fit closely without needing to be bitten into shape or trimmed at home. Patients often tell us a closer fit makes it easier to keep a guard in, and wearing it consistently is what gives it the chance to do its job. Here is what a custom guard can offer:
- A fit made for your mouth, which helps it stay in place without constant clenching to hold it
- Protection for natural teeth and dental work, including crowns, veneers, and fillings
- Less bulk than many one-size options, which can make speaking and breathing easier
- A design matched to its purpose, whether that is overnight wear or game-day impact
Our office also has an on-site dental lab, which supports the custom work we do for patients. For Westlake Village families juggling school, practices, and work, keeping more of the process under one roof can mean fewer handoffs and a simpler experience.
Do I need a night guard or a sports guard?
You likely need a night guard if you grind or clench while sleeping, and a sports guard if you play an activity with a risk of contact or falls. Signs of nighttime grinding can include waking with a sore jaw, tension headaches, tooth sensitivity, or worn-looking edges on your teeth. Sometimes a partner notices the sound before you do.
Jaw symptoms deserve a closer look. Our practice has a strong focus on TMJ treatment and orofacial pain. If you notice clicking, locking, limited jaw movement, or jaw-related headaches, we can evaluate whether a night guard is the right step or whether a broader TMJ approach would serve you better. Sports guards suit children and adults alike, from young players in their first season to adults in recreational leagues. Because we see patients of all ages, parents in Westlake Village can bring the whole family to one office.
What happens during the fitting process?
The process starts with an exam so we can understand your teeth, bite, and the reason you need a guard. If a night guard is the plan, we look for signs of wear and ask about jaw discomfort. For a sports guard, we talk about the sport you play and any orthodontic or restorative work in your mouth.
Next, we take impressions of your teeth, and your guard is fabricated to match them. When it is ready, you return for a fitting. We check how it seats, how it feels when you close, and whether any adjustments are needed. We also walk you through how to put it in, take it out, and care for it.
How do I care for my mouth guard?
Rinse your guard after each use, brush it gently, and let it dry completely before storing it in a ventilated case. Keep it away from heat, such as a hot car or dishwasher, because high temperatures can warp the material. Bring it to your regular checkups so we can look for wear, cracks, or changes in fit.
Children's mouths change as they grow, so young athletes may need new sports guards over time. If your guard ever feels loose, tight, or uncomfortable, let us know rather than trying to adjust it yourself.
How can I pay for a custom mouth guard?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans and welcome self-pay patients, and financing is available. Coverage for mouth guards varies from plan to plan, so our team can help you understand your benefits before treatment begins. If you live or work in Westlake Village and want a guard made for your smile, contact our office to schedule a visit.