Preventive Dentistry
Custom Night Guards & Sports Guards in Los Angeles
Against grinding at night, and impact on the field.
Teeth are hard to damage and expensive to repair, and the two most common ways to break them are unconscious grinding and a stray elbow. Custom-fitted guards from Smile LA Downtown Modern Dentistry are made for maximum protection and comfort, which is what makes people actually wear them.
At night
Night guards, against bruxism
Waking with jaw pain or headaches, or noticing your teeth wearing flat? You may be grinding or clenching in your sleep — bruxism — and the difficulty with it is that it happens while you are unconscious, so the damage is usually well advanced before anyone connects it to a cause. Left alone it leads to tooth fractures, gum recession and eventually tooth loss. A night guard does not stop the grinding; it puts a replaceable surface between your teeth so the force lands on that instead of on enamel. Unlike a generic store-bought one, ours is made to your mouth, and that is what decides whether it protects properly and whether you keep wearing it past the first week.
- Prevents tooth damage Protects against grinding and clenching, reducing the risk of fractures and wear.
- Relieves jaw pain Helps the jaw muscles relax, easing tension and discomfort.
- Improves sleep quality Minimizes the disturbance bruxism causes, so the night is more restful.
- Durable High-quality materials built to withstand regular use and last.
On the field
Sports guards, against impact
Professional or recreational, a custom sports guard protects teeth and gums from injury. They are recommended for anyone in a contact sport — football, basketball, hockey, martial arts — where the risk of dental injury is high. Ours fit securely while still letting you breathe easily during activity, which over-the-counter options generally do not.
- Prevents dental injuries Shields the teeth from impact, reducing broken teeth, cut lips and other oral injuries.
- Comfortable fit Custom-designed to your mouth, so it stays put during intense activity.
- Breathable and durable Premium materials that allow easy breathing and last.
- Suits all ages Children, teens and adults — peace of mind for athletes and parents both.
How a custom guard is made
- Consultation and assessment Dr. Kourosh Yousefzadeh and Dr. Razmik Galustian assess what you need it for — bruxism or sport — and recommend the right type.
- Custom impressions Precise impressions of your teeth, which is what makes the fit exact.
- Fabrication Crafted in a dental lab from high-quality materials.
- Fitting and instructions We check it sits comfortably and show you how to look after it.
If you have sleep apnea
A custom-fitted night guard may also help manage the symptoms. See sleep apnea treatment.
Night Guards & Sports Guards FAQ
- What is a night guard?
- A protective device worn over your teeth while you sleep, to prevent damage from grinding or clenching.
- How do I know if I need one?
- If you wake with jaw pain or headaches, or notice your teeth wearing down, you may need a night guard to protect them.
- What is the difference between a night guard and a sports guard?
- A night guard is worn during sleep to prevent teeth grinding. A sports guard protects the teeth from impact during physical activity.
- How is a custom night guard made?
- By taking impressions of your teeth, which are then used to create a guard that fits perfectly.
- Can a night guard help with snoring?
- Some night guards can reduce snoring by positioning the jaw so the airway stays open during sleep.
- How do I care for it?
- Clean it daily with a toothbrush and mild soap, and store it in a ventilated case when it is not in use.
- How often should it be replaced?
- Every few years, or sooner if it becomes worn or damaged.
