What Is a Night Guard?

A Simple, Comfortable Solution for Teeth Grinding & Jaw Pain Relief

A night guard, also known as a sleeping mouth guard, is a custom-made oral appliance worn during sleep to protect your teeth from grinding (bruxism) and clenching. At Fortson Dentistry, we create personalized night guards designed for a comfortable fit and maximum protection. These guards help prevent tooth wear, jaw soreness, headaches, and long-term damage to your bite.

Unlike over-the-counter mouth guards, a professionally crafted night guard is precisely molded to your teeth, ensuring better comfort and effectiveness. Whether you struggle with nighttime grinding or wake up with facial pain, a night guard offers relief and protects your smile from damage while you sleep.

Book Appointment+1 (248) 557-8120
Smiling female patient inserting a clear removable aligner tray onto her upper teeth during an Invisalign treatment session for orthodontic correction

Why Do I Need a Night Guard?

Protect Your Smile from the Hidden Damage of Nighttime Grinding

Teeth grinding often happens unconsciously during sleep, making it difficult to control without help. Over time, this habit can wear down tooth enamel, cause painful jaw tension, and even lead to cracked or broken teeth. A custom night guard cushions your bite, absorbs the pressure of grinding, and keeps your teeth safe.

Beyond protecting your teeth, night guards help alleviate common symptoms like headaches, earaches, and TMJ discomfort. If you wake up with sore jaw muscles or have been told you grind your teeth, it’s time to discuss a night guard with your General Dentistry provider at Fortson Dentistry.

Book Appointment+1 (248) 557-8120
Close-up of a woman holding a clear aligner between her fingers and smiling, demonstrating Invisalign orthodontic treatment

Why Choose Fortson Dentistry for Night Guards?

Customized Comfort

Unlike store-bought options, our night guards are crafted to fit your unique bite for maximum comfort and protection.

Experienced Dental Professionals

Led by Dr. Cory Fortson, our team has the expertise to diagnose and treat bruxism effectively.

State-of-the-Art Materials

We use durable, medical-grade materials that are long-lasting, easy to clean, and comfortable to wear overnight.

Convenient Lathrup Village Location

Located at 27347 Southfield Rd in Lathrup Village, MI, we offer flexible appointment times to fit your busy life.

Book Appointment+1 (248) 557-8120
Happy female patient holding a toothbrush and looking in the mirror, smiling after receiving a dental hygiene consultation

Benefits of Night Guards

Comfortable Protection for Long-Term Oral Health
Prevents tooth wear and damage: Protects your enamel from nightly grinding and clenching.
Reduces jaw and facial pain: Relieves pressure on jaw joints and muscles.
Improves sleep quality: Less discomfort means more restful sleep.
Minimizes headaches and TMJ symptoms: Helps prevent chronic pain related to bruxism.
Custom-fit for comfort: Designed specifically for your mouth to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Book Appointment+1 (248) 557-8120

What People Are Saying

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Dr. C. Fortson is the best. He genuinely cares, immediately responds and followed up with me post surgery. His authentic compassion is unmatched!

Melanie Stinson

We were there today and Dr. Waller serviced us both professionally and courteously! Staff is great and never a long wait time! Highly recommend this dental practice!

LaVerne Reinhardt

Dr. Waller and Crystal the hygienist are amazing. They are gentle in your mouth and very informative. There aren’t any long wait times in the lobby.

Regina Johnson

This location created an immediate opening for a requested CT scan from the dual consultation of Dr’s Fortson & Thompson. The staff was very courteous, pleasant & professional.

Chas Gilbert

The experience was real nice. She did not hurt me at all. There was a small pain but once she doped me up with the numbing shot it did the trick. She was very gentle with me.

Ashanti Vaughn

Great first visit. Sarah was awesome made me feel comfortable. Very professional and easy. Helping me get my smile together.

Veno Bee

The office staff is friendly. My dental health is great. Can't ask for much more than that!

Helena Parker

All of the staff are like family now because they actually get to know their patients.! I also appreciate how patient they are with my children! Seriously the best dentist office!

Kayla Bullard

My hygienist, Keisha, is absolutely the best. She is thorough yet very gentle and when I’m in her chair she takes great care of me!

Carla Stamps

Dr. Waller and Crystal the hygienist are amazing. They are gentle in your mouth and very informative. There aren’t any long wait times in the lobby.

Regina Johnson

I'm comfortable when I go to Fortson Dentistry my dentist is precise about her patients an make sure that her work was complete 5 stars

Phyllis Norman

My experience was very good. My hygienist Keisha was gentle and one of the best hygienist I've had. I intend to refer others.

Karen Williams

Fortson Dentistry is the best dental group I have ever had. Always professional, kind and caring. They provide great service

MBC MUSIC

Great service. Staff members are knowledgeable and always so patient with the kids. My kids love their dentist.

Sonja Gordon

I had a great time with Dr. Catherine El Hadi. She’s so nice and amazing. Dr. Crystal was so cool as well

Brooklyn Tripp

The dental hygienist Ms. Jennifer was really kind and great with my kids. She answered all the questions I had, and she took her time with their cleaning.

Tracy Houston

Keisha is my family’s dental hygienist and she is awesome. Dr. Lambeth-Greer, Dr. Katherine & front desk staff Ms. Dana are all special ladies & make coming to the dentist a nice trip.

Shanna Blue

Very Friendly Reception throughout the practice. I have anxiety attacks when it comes to the dentist. I felt SOMEWHAT relaxed.

Wanda

Awesome experience. Everyone was delightful from the front desk to the dental hygienist. The Dentist was very friendly. Will refer family and friends

Chanelle Pettress

Been going to Fortson for years and have always loved them. The staff (shoutout Sarah, Crystal, and Dr Waller) is always personable, friendly, and professional.

Celica Lasanta

Night Guards FAQs for Fortson Dentistry in Lathrup MI

What is a night guard and how does it work?

A night guard is a custom-fitted oral appliance worn while sleeping to protect teeth from grinding (bruxism) and clenching. At Fortson Dentistry in Lathrup MI, we provide high-quality custom night guards that help prevent tooth damage, jaw pain, and TMJ disorders.

Who needs a night guard?

You may need a night guard if you experience:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching while sleeping (bruxism).
  • Jaw pain, headaches, or facial soreness in the morning.
  • Tooth wear, fractures, or sensitivity from grinding.
  • Clicking or popping in the jaw (signs of TMJ disorder).

    • What are the benefits of wearing a night guard?

  • Prevents tooth damage – Protects enamel from excessive wear.
  • Reduces jaw pain – Relieves pressure on the jaw joint (TMJ).
  • Minimizes headaches and facial pain – Decreases tension caused by grinding.
  • Improves sleep quality – Reduces discomfort that may disrupt sleep.

    • How long do night guards last?

    With proper care, a custom night guard can last several years, but it may need replacement if it becomes worn, cracked, or loose. Regular dental check-ups at Fortson Dentistry in Lathrup MI help ensure your night guard remains in good condition.

    Can I wear my night guard for daytime teeth grinding?

    Yes, if you grind or clench your teeth during the day, a thin, lightweight day guard can be made specifically for daytime use.

    Insurance & Flexible Financing at Fortson Dentistry

    Cost shouldn’t keep you from a healthy smile. We welcome Delta Dental® and most major PPO plans and offer flexible financing through CareCredit® and Cherry™, so treatment fits your budget, not the other way around.

    We Accept Your Insurance
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    Now offering payment plans with

    Payment options through Cherry Technologies, Inc. are issued by Cross River Bank, member FDIC. See www.withcherry.com/terms for details.

    Fortson Dentistry is proud to accept
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    Questions? Call us or book online and our team will help you every step of the way.

    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.

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