The short answer
A custom mouth guard is made from precise impressions of your teeth so it fits snugly, stays in place and lets you breathe and talk normally. Night guards protect against clenching and grinding (bruxism), while sports guards cushion impacts during football, soccer, basketball and martial arts. Ours are typically ready in about one to two weeks.
- Types
- Night guard, sports guard
- Fit
- Custom from digital/physical impressions
- Turnaround
- About 1–2 weeks
- Signs you grind
- Jaw soreness, flat teeth, headaches
Who custom mouth guards is right for
- People who wake with jaw pain or morning headaches
- Teeth that look flat, chipped or worn
- Student athletes in contact sports
- Patients with veneers, crowns or implants to protect
What to expect, step by step
Evaluate
We check for wear, jaw joint sounds and muscle tenderness.
Impressions
Accurate impressions capture your exact bite.
Fabricate
A dental lab crafts the guard to your specs.
Fit
We adjust it so your bite feels even and comfortable.
Do I need a night guard for teeth grinding?
Most grinding happens during sleep, so many people don’t know they do it. Flattened teeth, tiny chips, receding gums, morning headaches or a partner hearing grinding are classic clues.
A night guard won’t stop the habit, but it absorbs the force, protects your enamel and dental work, and often relaxes jaw muscles. If you also have TMJ symptoms, Dr. Shahinyan can design a guard as part of a broader TMJ plan.
Are custom sports guards worth it?
Store-bought guards are bulky and kids tend to chew or remove them. A custom guard is thinner, more comfortable and stays put — which means it actually gets worn during the game.
Custom guard vs. store-bought
| Factor | Custom from our office | Boil-and-bite |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Precise to your teeth | Approximate |
| Comfort | Thin, easy to talk & breathe | Bulky |
| Durability | Years with care | Months |
| Bite balanced | Yes | No |
Custom Mouth Guards cost in Montebello
Some PPO plans cover night guards for documented grinding. We quote self-pay pricing up front and offer financing for qualifying patients.
Most major PPO plans and Denti-Cal accepted. Cash and card patients welcome, with financing for qualifying patients. See insurance & financing.
Custom Mouth Guards FAQs
How do I clean my night guard?
Rinse it after use, brush gently with a soft brush and cool water, and store it dry in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp it.
Can a night guard help TMJ pain?
Often, yes. It reduces clenching force and helps muscles relax. We may combine it with other TMJ therapies.
Can my child wear a sports guard with braces?
Yes. We can make a guard designed to accommodate orthodontic brackets.
How long does a custom night guard last?
With proper care, several years. Bring it to every checkup so we can inspect it.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lina Shahinyan, DDS, MS· Source: ADA MouthHealthy — Mouthguards
