Custom Occlusal & Sports Guards in Murray, Utah
Protect your teeth from nighttime grinding and athletic injuries with precision-made mouthguards.
Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime—but daily wear, nighttime clenching, and sports-related trauma can put them at risk. At Peak Dental Utah, we create custom occlusal and athletic guards that provide superior protection, comfort, and durability compared to store-bought options.
Whether you grind your teeth while you sleep or need a guard for high-contact sports, we offer personalized solutions that keep your smile safe—and your jaw pain-free.
What Is an Occlusal Guard?
An occlusal guard—also known as a night guard—is a custom-made oral appliance worn while you sleep to prevent:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Jaw clenching
- TMJ-related discomfort
- Enamel erosion
- Morning headaches or facial soreness
Over time, untreated grinding can wear down your teeth, damage fillings, and cause gum recession or jaw misalignment. A properly fitted occlusal guard creates a barrier between your teeth, redistributing bite force and relaxing the jaw muscles.
Learn more about our TMJ disorder treatment options if you’re experiencing chronic jaw pain or clicking.
What Is a Sports Mouthguard?
A sports mouthguard is a custom oral appliance worn during athletic activity to protect against:
- Tooth fractures or loss
- Lip and cheek injuries
- Jaw trauma or dislocation
- Concussions (by absorbing shock)
Unlike store-bought “boil-and-bite” guards, our professionally made sports guards fit snugly and comfortably, allowing for easy breathing and speaking—without slipping during action.
We recommend guards for patients participating in:
- Football, basketball, or soccer
- Hockey, lacrosse, or wrestling
- Martial arts or boxing
- Skateboarding or mountain biking
Why Choose a Custom Guard?
Custom-fitted guards provide:
- Superior comfort and fit – Less bulky and easier to wear
- Better protection – Precise molding ensures full coverage and durability
- Higher compliance – You’re more likely to wear a guard that actually feels good
- Longevity – Built to last with quality materials
- Personalization – Optional color or name engraving for athletic guards
Store-bought guards can be ill-fitting, uncomfortable, and ineffective—leading to ongoing damage or injury risk.
Signs You May Need a Night Guard
You may benefit from a night guard if you:
- Wake up with jaw pain or stiffness
- Notice flattened, chipped, or sensitive teeth
- Hear clicking or popping when opening your jaw
- Experience frequent headaches or facial tension
- Have been diagnosed with bruxism or TMJ dysfunction
Not sure if you’re grinding at night? A simple exam and bite evaluation can help us identify signs and recommend the best solution.
Our Guard Creation Process
- Digital Impressions
We take precise 3D scans—no messy trays needed—for a perfect fit. - Custom Fabrication
Your guard is crafted from durable, high-grade material to match your bite and comfort preferences. - Fitting & Adjustments
Once ready, we ensure a secure, comfortable fit and make any minor refinements. - Care Instructions
We’ll walk you through cleaning and storage tips to keep your guard in top condition.
Custom guards are often part of a comprehensive approach to preventive care and bite stabilization—especially after restorative or orthodontic treatment.
Why Choose Peak Dental Utah?
Our dentists—Dr. S. Michael Vaughan and Dr. Roxanna Dobran—understand how bite forces, sports injuries, and nighttime habits can affect your long-term oral health. We use modern digital scanning and high-quality materials to create guards that work better and last longer.
You can expect clear communication, timely appointments, and guards tailored to your individual needs—not one-size-fits-all devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long do custom guards last?
Most occlusal and sports guards last 3–5 years or more with proper care. Nighttime bruxism and athletic activity level may affect longevity.
Can I buy a guard at the store instead?
Store-bought guards are less effective and often uncomfortable. They may not provide the level of protection you need, especially for grinding or contact sports.
Does insurance cover occlusal guards?
Some dental plans offer partial coverage for night guards. We’ll help you check your benefits and review costs up front.
Can children or teens wear these guards?
Yes, we create sports mouthguards for children and teens involved in athletics. We’ll assess whether a night guard is appropriate based on development and symptoms.
What’s the difference between a sports guard and a night guard?
Night guards are made to protect against grinding forces during sleep, while sports guards are designed to absorb shock from physical contact during activity.
Protect Your Smile the Right Way
Whether you’re grinding in your sleep or protecting your teeth on the field, we can help. A professionally made occlusal or sports guard offers peace of mind and long-term savings by preventing costly dental damage.