Night Guards & TMJ Care in Ashland, OH
Ashland Dental Arts makes custom night guards for teeth grinding and clenching and evaluates jaw joint discomfort in Ashland, OH.
Signs you may be grinding or clenching
Many people who grind or clench their teeth do so at night without realizing it. Common signs include waking up with soreness in your jaw, temples, or the sides of your face; morning headaches that tend to ease as the day goes on; teeth that look flatter, shorter, or more worn than they used to; chipped or cracked teeth with no obvious cause; and a partner telling you they hear grinding sounds while you sleep. If any of these sound familiar, a dental exam can help determine whether grinding is affecting your teeth.
How a custom night guard helps
A night guard is a removable appliance worn over your teeth while you sleep. It creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth so that the force of grinding or clenching is absorbed by the guard rather than your tooth enamel. This helps prevent further wear, reduces the strain on your jaw muscles and joints, and can ease the morning soreness and headaches that often accompany grinding. A night guard does not stop you from grinding, but it protects your teeth from the damage grinding causes.
Custom vs. store-bought night guards
Over-the-counter night guards are available at most pharmacies, but they are made to a generic size rather than to the shape of your teeth. A guard that does not fit well can shift around while you sleep, feel uncomfortable, and be less effective at protecting your teeth. A custom night guard is made from impressions of your own teeth, so it fits precisely, stays in place, and is far more comfortable to wear. Patients who have tried both almost always find the custom guard easier to use consistently.
Jaw joint (TMJ) discomfort: what we check
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint is irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain in the jaw, face, or ear area, clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth, and difficulty opening your mouth fully. We evaluate jaw joint discomfort as part of a dental exam and discuss what options may help. Some cases of jaw discomfort respond well to a night guard; others involve factors that require additional care. We will be straightforward about what we can address at our office and when a referral may be appropriate.
Getting your night guard
Getting a custom night guard typically takes two visits. At the first visit we take impressions of your teeth, which are sent to a dental lab to fabricate your guard. At the second visit we check the fit and make any adjustments needed. We will also show you how to insert and remove the guard and answer any questions you have before you leave.
Caring for your night guard
Rinse your night guard with cool water before and after each use. Clean it regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Store it in the case we provide when you are not wearing it. Keep it away from heat, which can warp the material. Bring your night guard to your regular checkups so we can check it for wear. A well-cared-for night guard will last considerably longer than one that is not maintained.
Cost, insurance and financing
The cost of a custom night guard depends on the type of guard and your insurance coverage. Some plans cover a portion of the cost when there is documented evidence of grinding or clenching. We are in-network with many PPO plans including Aetna, Blue Cross, Delta Dental, Devoted Healthcare, Connection Dental, GEHA, Guardian, Humana, Medical Mutual, MetLife, Physicians Mutual, Superior Dental (SDC), and United Concordia. We also accept many Medicare Advantage dental plans; call (419) 496-0132 to check yours. We accept most PPO dental plans. If your plan is not listed, call us and we will check your benefits. Financing is available through CareCredit and Sunbit. If you do not have insurance, ask about our in-office dental discount plan.
Serving Ashland and nearby communities: Mansfield, Loudonville, West Salem, Jeromesville, Hayesville, Polk, Savannah, Nova, Perrysville, Sullivan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you make custom night guards in Ashland, OH?
Yes. We make custom-fitted night guards at our office at 926 Katherine Ave, Suite 2, Ashland, OH 44805. Call (419) 496-0132 to schedule a consultation.
How do I know if I need a night guard?
Common signs include waking up with jaw soreness or headaches, noticing that your teeth look worn or chipped, or being told by a partner that you grind your teeth at night. A dental exam can confirm whether grinding or clenching is affecting your teeth. Call (419) 496-0132 to schedule.
Is a custom night guard better than a store-bought one?
Yes. A custom night guard is made from impressions of your own teeth, so it fits precisely and stays in place while you sleep. Store-bought guards are made to a generic size and are often bulky, uncomfortable, and less effective. A guard that does not fit well is less likely to be worn consistently.
Can you help with jaw pain?
We evaluate jaw joint discomfort and can discuss options that may help, including a custom night guard. We do not promise to cure TMJ disorders, as jaw joint conditions vary widely and some require care beyond what a night guard provides. We will be straightforward about what we can and cannot address at our office.
How much does a night guard cost in Ashland, OH?
The cost depends on the type of guard and your insurance coverage. We provide a detailed estimate before treatment begins. Financing is available through CareCredit and Sunbit. If you do not have insurance, ask about our in-office dental discount plan. Call (419) 496-0132 for more information.
Does insurance cover night guards?
Some dental plans cover a portion of the cost of a custom night guard, particularly when there is documented evidence of grinding or clenching. We will check your benefits before treatment begins and let you know what to expect.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Amir Guirguis, DDS — Updated November 2026
Ready to Schedule Your Visit?
New patients are always welcome. Call us or request an appointment online.