Now accepting new patients! Call (248) 557-8120 to book your visit.

Samantha’s Lingering Jaw Ache

Samantha, a busy marketing professional, often found herself clenching her jaw during the day. This habit, she thought, was just a side effect of her demanding job. She’d brush it off, attributing the dull ache that sometimes stretched into her temples to long hours and too much coffee.

Lately, however, the ache had intensified. She woke up most mornings with a tight, sore jaw, feeling as though she’d been chewing gum all night. Her husband, Logan, had even mentioned hearing a faint grinding sound coming from her side of the bed. It was becoming more than just an annoyance; it was impacting her energy and even her concentration.

One morning, after a particularly restless night, Samantha noticed a small chip on one of her front teeth. This was the final straw. She realized this wasn't just stress-related; something more serious was happening with her teeth and jaw, and she knew she needed to address it before further damage occurred.

The Chipped Tooth and a Worried Call

Seeing the chipped tooth in the mirror sent a pang of anxiety through Samantha. "How could this have happened?" she wondered aloud, tracing the tiny imperfection with her tongue. She’d always prided herself on her oral hygiene, making sure to keep up with her regular dental cleanings and comprehensive exams.

Her mind immediately went to the grinding Logan had mentioned. Could that be the culprit? She remembered an old article about teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, and how it could wear down teeth and cause jaw pain. The pieces started to fit together, creating a worrying picture.

Determined to get answers and prevent further damage, Samantha decided it was time to talk to a professional. She thought of Fortson Dentistry, where she'd had excellent experiences before. Resolving to call them that day, she made a mental note to ask about solutions for teeth grinding and protecting her smile. Addressing this quickly felt paramount.

Understanding Bruxism with Dr. Cory Fortson

During her appointment, Samantha explained her symptoms to Dr. Cory Fortson, including the jaw pain, morning headaches, and the recent chipped tooth. Dr. Fortson listened attentively, nodding with understanding. He quickly identified her concerns as typical indicators of bruxism, a common condition.

Dr. Fortson then performed a thorough comprehensive exam, checking her bite and looking for signs of wear on her teeth. He explained that bruxism often occurs unconsciously during sleep, making it difficult to stop without intervention. "Your teeth are designed to last a lifetime," he emphasized, "but constant grinding can put immense pressure on them."

He further clarified that bruxism isn't just about teeth, but also affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can lead to jaw pain and headaches. He assured Samantha that she wasn’t alone in this experience and that there were effective solutions available to protect her teeth and alleviate her discomfort.

The Custom Night Guard Solution

After his examination, Dr. Fortson recommended a custom night guard. He explained that unlike over-the-counter options, a custom night guard is precisely fitted to her unique dental anatomy. "It acts as a protective barrier," he described, illustrating how it would prevent her upper and lower teeth from grinding against each other.

Samantha had heard of night guards but imagined them as bulky and uncomfortable. Dr. Fortson, however, assured her that custom night guards from Fortson Dentistry are made from high-quality materials designed for comfort and durability. "Comfort is key for consistent use," he stressed, knowing that an uncomfortable guard would likely end up in a drawer.

He detailed the process, starting with taking precise impressions of her teeth. These impressions would then be sent to a lab where her custom night guard would be expertly fabricated. This personalized approach sounded much better than the generic guards she had envisioned, offering real hope for relief from her symptoms.

The Clarity of Complete Protection

Isn't it time you felt truly secure about your smile, whether you're sleeping or playing? We invite you to discover how simple and effective personalized dental protection can be. Let us help you find the right custom solution for your unique needs.

+1 (248) 557-8120Book Appointment

Preparing for Samantha's New Guard

The next step for Samantha was getting her dental impressions. The team at Fortson Dentistry made the process quick and comfortable. They used a soft, moldable material that captured every detail of her teeth, ensuring a perfect fit for her upcoming night guard.

While the impressions were being taken, Dr. Fortson explained more about what to expect. He mentioned that some patients might feel a little awkward at first wearing the guard, but that most adjust quickly. "Think of it like a new pair of shoes," he analogized, "it takes a little getting used to, but soon it feels perfectly natural."

He also highlighted the long-term benefits beyond just protecting her teeth from further chipping and wear. The custom night guard would also help relax her jaw muscles, reducing her morning headaches and general jaw soreness. Samantha felt a growing sense of relief, knowing that true comfort was within reach.

Brian's Sports Protection Story

Not long after Samantha's appointment, her teenage son, Brian, got involved in his school's soccer team. Brian was enthusiastic, but Samantha, remembering her own dental scare, worried about his teeth during practices and games. Collisions can happen unexpectedly on the field, and she knew the potential for dental injuries was high.

She brought Brian in for his routine dental cleaning and mentioned her concerns to Dr. Fortson. Dr. Fortson immediately understood. He explained that just as custom night guards protect against grinding, custom sports mouthguards offer superior protection against impact injuries, far surpassing boil-and-bite versions.

He showed them examples of different types of sports mouthguards, emphasizing how a custom-fitted one would stay securely in place and provide optimal cushioning. Brian, initially skeptical, was convinced when Dr. Fortson explained how a proper fit wouldn’t interfere with his breathing or speaking. Protecting his smile without hindering his performance was a clear win.

The Advantages of Custom Fit

Dr. Fortson highlighted the key difference between generic mouthguards and custom-fitted options: the level of protection and comfort. He explained that boil-and-bite mouthguards, while accessible, offer an inconsistent fit and often fall out or feel bulky, making them less likely to be worn. "A poorly fitting guard does no good," he stated plainly.

For both Samantha's night guard and Brian's sports mouthguard, the custom approach meant superior impact absorption and stability. The precise fit ensures that the force of a blow (for sports) or the pressure from grinding (for bruxism) is evenly distributed, significantly reducing the risk of injury or wear.

Furthermore, a well-fitting device is simply more comfortable. This increased comfort directly translates to higher compliance – meaning Samantha would consistently wear her night guard, and Brian would be more likely to keep his sports mouthguard in during play. This consistent protection was truly invaluable.

A Protected and Confident Smile

After a couple of weeks, Samantha’s custom night guard was ready. The first night she wore it, she was surprised by how comfortable it felt. Waking up the next morning, her jaw felt noticeably less tense, and the dull ache was gone. The relief was immediate and profound. Over time, she noticed her headaches diminished, and she felt more rested.

Brian also embraced his new custom sports mouthguard. He found it easy to wear during games, allowing him to communicate with teammates without impediment. Samantha had peace of mind knowing his teeth were safe from impacts. Their smiles were now effectively protected, whether from grinding or from athletic activity.

Samantha was incredibly grateful to Dr. Cory Fortson and the Fortson Dentistry team. Their expertise in providing personalized solutions for both her bruxism and Brian’s sports protection needs had truly made a difference. They now understood the lasting benefits of custom night guards and sports mouthguards for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q1: How much do custom night guards cost?
A1: The cost of a custom night guard can vary depending on material and specific needs. We’ll provide a detailed estimate during your consultation, and our team can also discuss payment options and any insurance coverage you may have.


2. Q2: Will wearing a night guard be uncomfortable or interfere with my sleep?
A2: Initially, it might feel a little different, but most patients adjust quickly to their custom night guard. Because it’s precisely molded to your teeth, it’s designed for maximum comfort and minimal interference with your sleep.


3. Q3: How long does it take to get a custom night guard or sports mouthguard?
A3: After your initial impression appointment, it typically takes about two weeks for your custom night guard or sports mouthguard to be fabricated in the lab and returned to our office for fitting.


4. Q4: Can a night guard fix my jaw pain or headaches completely?
A4: A custom night guard can significantly alleviate jaw pain and headaches caused by bruxism by distributing pressure and relaxing jaw muscles. While it’s highly effective, we’ll discuss all potential causes of your pain during your comprehensive exam to ensure the best treatment plan.


5. Q5: Are custom sports mouthguards really better than store-bought ones?
A5: Absolutely. Custom sports mouthguards offer superior protection because they are precisely fitted to your mouth, ensuring better retention, comfort, and shock absorption compared to generic boil-and-bite options. This means greater safety for your teeth.


6. Q6: Does my dental insurance cover night guards or sports mouthguards?
A6: Many dental insurance plans offer some coverage for night guards, especially if they are prescribed for conditions like bruxism. Sports mouthguard coverage can vary. We recommend checking with your specific provider, and our front desk team is happy to assist you with any questions.

Latest Blog Posts

Stay Informed with Expert Insights & Tips About Dental Care

+1 (248) 557-8120view more blog posts

Emergency Dentist in Lathrup Village, MI

Unexpected dental pain? Dr. Cory Fortson offers swift, compassionate emergency dental care in Lathrup Village. Get relief when you need it most!

4.13.2026
READ MORE

Understanding Dental Implants Cost in Lathrup Village

Uncover the true cost of dental implants in Lathrup Village with Fortson Dentistry. Learn about pricing and payment options!

3.12.2026
READ MORE

What Does A Cavity Look Like As It Starts To Form

Wondering what a cavity actually looks like before it hurts? Learn the subtle signs, real patient experience, and why early detection can save your smile.

2.9.2026
READ MORE

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

New Patient Specials
- $150 -
New Patient Exam, X-rays

New patients only. The cost of a New Patient Appointment will be $150. Cannot be combined with any other offer or insurance. Limited time offer. Call (248) 557-8120 for details.

Thank you for booking your appointment!

We’ve received your request and will contact you soon to confirm the details. We look forward to seeing you at Fortson Dentistry South Lathrup.

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Our Location