Night guards typically consist of a custom-made, removable dental appliance that is worn over the teeth during sleep. They are designed to fit comfortably in your mouth and provide a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth.



To wear a night guard, you simply insert it over your teeth before going to bed. It should fit snugly but comfortably in your mouth, covering the chewing surfaces of your teeth. Removal is similarly straightforward, with a gentle pull or slide to release the night guard from your teeth.

Typically, night guards are worn to:

• Prevent damage: Grinding teeth can cause them to crack, chip and eventually become loose. Wearing a night guard can help you avoid potential damage and keep your teeth healthy.
• Alleviate pain and discomfort: Nighttime teeth grinding can cause you to wake up with a headache and in pain. Wearing a night guard every night can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with teeth grinding or clenching.
• Protect dental restorations: If you have dental restorations such as crowns, bridges or veneers, night guards can help protect them from the excessive forces of teeth grinding. The night guard acts as a protective shield, preventing direct contact between the natural teeth and the restorations, thus extending their lifespan and maintaining their integrity.

Night guards are designed to be comfortable to wear. No two people have identical teeth and bites, which is why night guards should ideally be custom-made to fit your mouth.



There can be an initial adjustment period as you get used to wearing the appliance. You may initially experience minor discomfort or a sense of foreignness in the mouth. However, with regular use, you’ll adapt to wearing the night guard and find it comfortable.

Dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace missing teeth and restore oral functionality and aesthetics. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and are designed to resemble natural teeth.

A person may need either partial dentures (used when some natural teeth remain in the arch) or full dentures (when all teeth are missing) depending on their unique situation.



Dentures are inserted into the mouth using a gentle pressing motion. They rest on the gums and are held in place by suction, denture adhesives or attachments to natural teeth or dental implants. Removal is achieved by applying gentle pressure to the denture and releasing the suction.

A dentist may recommend dentures for several reasons, including:

• Missing teeth: Dentures are commonly used to replace missing teeth. When multiple teeth are missing, dentures provide a way to restore the aesthetics and functionality of the smile.
• Chewing and speaking: Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew food properly and may affect speech clarity. Dentures help individuals regain the ability to chew a wide range of foods and articulate words more clearly.
• Aesthetics: Dentures improve the appearance of the smile by filling in gaps left by missing teeth. They restore the natural shape of the face, restoring a more youthful appearance and boosting self-confidence.
• Jaw and bite alignment: Missing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to shift and lead to changes in bite alignment. Dentures help maintain proper alignment, preventing problems such as misalignment and excessive wear on the remaining natural teeth.

Dentures aren’t the only device used to replace missing teeth, and alternative solutions include crowns, implants and bridges. However, there are several scenarios in which dentists or patients may prefer dentures as a tooth replacement option.

• Affordability: Dentures are generally more affordable compared to alternatives such as dental implants. Dentures offer a cost-effective solution for individuals with budget constraints or those seeking a more economical option.
• Non-invasive: Dentures are a non-surgical treatment option. Unlike dental implants, which require surgery for implant placement, dentures do not involve any invasive procedures. This can be appealing for individuals who prefer a non-invasive approach to tooth replacement.
• Adjustability and reversibility: Dentures can be adjusted and modified as needed to maintain a proper fit and function. If any changes occur in the mouth over time, such as further tooth loss or gum tissue changes, dentures can be easily adjusted or relined. Dentures can also be removed for cleaning or at night for comfort.

Our dentists offer comprehensive dental services at our six locations in and around Houston. To schedule your appointment, call us at (713) 778-1300.