Night Guard for Bruxism

A night guard is a custom made splint in transparent resin worn during sleep to protect the teeth from grinding and clenching, the two behaviours that characterise bruxism. In our Tirana clinics it is designed by the doctor after an occlusal examination and made in the own laboratory within a few days, so that it can be delivered and adjusted during the same stay.

What is bruxism and why is a night guard needed?

Bruxism is the involuntary habit of clenching or grinding the teeth, especially at night, often linked to stress, anxiety or sleep disorders. The forces involved are far higher than those of normal chewing and over time they wear the enamel, cause fractures, sensitivity, pain in the jaw muscles, headaches on waking and problems with the temporomandibular joint. The guard sits between the arches, absorbs the forces, protects teeth and restorations and helps the muscles relax.

When is it indicated?

A night guard is indicated when the doctor finds signs of enamel wear, chipped or sensitive teeth with no other cause, pain in the chewing muscles or the joint, joint noises, morning headaches and when a partner reports the sound of grinding at night. It is also recommended to protect veneers, crowns, bridges and implant rehabilitations, which without protection would be subjected to excessive loads. The assessment takes place during the free consultation.

How is the treatment carried out in our Tirana clinics?

The doctor performs an occlusal examination, assessing muscles, joint, tooth wear and the relationship between the arches. A digital impression with the intraoral scanner follows, on which the laboratory makes the guard in rigid or semi rigid resin depending on the case. At delivery the doctor checks that the splint is stable and comfortable and adjusts the contacts so that the teeth rest evenly. They then explain in your language how to wear, clean and store it.

How long does it take?

Two to four days usually pass from the impression to the delivery, so the guard is made during the same stay in Tirana, often together with other treatments such as veneers, crowns or professional cleaning. A well made guard lasts several years; the doctor checks it during later stays or assesses any signs of wear by video call.

What are the advantages?

The guard protects natural teeth and restorations from wear and fractures, reduces muscle and joint pain, improves sleep quality and prevents far more expensive treatments in the future. It is a simple, compact and reversible device that many patients forget they are wearing after a few nights because it causes no discomfort. A custom made guard is far more effective and safer than the universal products sold in shops.

How is it used and maintained?

The guard is worn every night and cleaned in the morning with a toothbrush and cold water, avoiding abrasive toothpaste, and stored in its case. A checkup every six to twelve months is advisable to verify the integrity of the splint and the evolution of the bruxism. If stress is the main cause, the doctor may also suggest relaxation strategies and, in complex cases, a more thorough occlusal assessment.

How much does it cost?

We do not publish prices and we do not send quotes by email, because a price given without seeing the patient's mouth is not a quote but a promise that often changes once you are in the chair. The cost of the treatment is explained by our dental surgeon and implantologist, who speaks Italian and English, after your free consultation: online by video call or directly at the clinic in Tirana. You receive the treatment plan and the cost in writing, item by item, and from that moment they do not change. No surprises, no hidden costs, no salespeople: only a doctor who explains what you really need.