Custom night guards and retainers
Grinding, clenching, or just finished with braces? A custom-fit guard or retainer protects your teeth around the clock. At Oakland Dental Associates we take precise impressions and have your appliance crafted in our in-house lab — so it fits perfectly and lasts.
Night guards for grinding and clenching
If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth, you may be grinding or clenching in your sleep — a condition called bruxism. A custom night guard cushions your teeth and distributes the force, protecting your enamel and reducing jaw strain. Unlike store-bought guards, ours are made from impressions of your teeth for a precise, comfortable fit.
- ✓Custom-fitted to your bite
- ✓Durable, lab-fabricated materials
- ✓Protects against enamel wear and fractures
- ✓Reduces jaw pain and morning headaches
Retainers
After orthodontic treatment, a retainer keeps your teeth from shifting back to their old positions. We make both clear and traditional retainers in our lab. If you've lost or broken a retainer, we can replace it quickly — don't wait, because teeth can start moving within weeks.
Sports guards
If you or your child plays contact sports, a custom sports guard offers far better protection than a boil-and-bite from the store. We mold it to fit securely so it stays in place during play and doesn't interfere with breathing or speaking.
Insurance and Denti-Cal
Many PPO plans cover a portion of custom night guards. Denti-Cal (Medi-Cal Dental) may cover guards when medically necessary. We'll check your benefits and let you know before we start. We also accept CareCredit, credit cards, and cash.
Caring for your guard or retainer
A little care makes an appliance last years. Rinse it with cool water every time you take it out and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush — no toothpaste, which scratches the surface, and never hot water, which can warp it. Let it dry and keep it in its case; guards left on a nightstand get chewed by pets and stepped on. Bring it to your regular checkups so we can check the fit and look for cracks or wear.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I need a night guard?+
Common signs include waking with jaw pain or headaches, noticing worn or flattened teeth, or a partner hearing you grind at night. We can check for wear patterns during a regular exam.
How long does a custom night guard last?+
With proper care, a custom night guard typically lasts two to five years. Heavy grinders may need a replacement sooner. We'll check its condition at your regular visits.
Can I get a replacement retainer if I lost mine?+
Yes. We can make a new retainer from a fresh impression, usually within a few days. Come in as soon as possible — teeth can begin shifting quickly without a retainer.
Are over-the-counter night guards just as good?+
Store-bought guards are one-size-fits-all and tend to be bulky, uncomfortable, and less effective. A custom guard is made from your exact bite, so it fits better, lasts longer, and provides more reliable protection.
Protect your teeth — ask us about a custom guard or retainer.
We'd love to hear from you.
Give the office a ring and a real person will pick up — questions about treatment, insurance or scheduling are always welcome. Prefer to write? Send us a message and we'll get back to you.
Three easy ways to reach us
- (510) 532-8972
Call the office
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Alternate line: (510) 532-8995
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2648 International Blvd, Ste 602, Oakland, CA 94601 · Mon – Fri · 9am – 5pm