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Occlusal & Sports Guards in Vista, CA

Call (760) 941-1906

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520 W. Vista Way, Vista, CA 92083

Mon – Thurs: 8 am – 5 pm | Fri: 8 am – 12 pm | Sat – Sun: Closed

(760) 941-1906

dantwandds@gmail.com

Protect Your Teeth from Damage, Day or Night

Your teeth are strong — but they’re not invincible. Whether you grind your teeth while you sleep or play contact sports, a custom-fit dental guard can help prevent costly damage and preserve your oral health. At Civic Dental, Dr. Dunya Antwan provides high-quality occlusal guards (nightguards) and sports mouthguards in Vista, CA, for patients of all ages.

Our guards are custom-made to fit your unique bite and provide maximum comfort, durability, and protection — far superior to store-bought options.

An occlusal guard, also known as a nightguard or bite splint, is a clear or acrylic appliance worn during sleep to protect your teeth from grinding (bruxism) or clenching.

What Is an Occlusal Guard?

An occlusal guard, also known as a nightguard or bite splint, is a clear or acrylic appliance worn during sleep to protect your teeth from grinding (bruxism) or clenching. Nighttime grinding can wear down enamel, cause jaw pain, and lead to cracked teeth over time.

Signs you may need an occlusal guard include:

Morning headaches or jaw soreness
Worn, chipped, or flattened teeth
Tooth sensitivity with no apparent cause
Tension in the neck, jaw, or temples

A custom nightguard helps:

Absorb grinding forces
Prevent tooth wear and fractures
Reduce TMJ-related discomfort
Improve sleep quality in some patients

If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms, we may also recommend TMJ Therapy for more comprehensive relief.

What Is a Sports Guard?

A sports guard is a thick, durable mouthpiece worn during physical activity to shield your teeth and soft tissues from impact. It is essential for athletes of all ages who participate in contact sports like football, basketball, hockey, wrestling, or martial arts.

Benefits of a custom-fit sports guard:

Prevents broken teeth and jaw injuries
Protects lips, cheeks, and tongue from lacerations
Offers better breathing and speaking compared to over-the-counter options
Reduces risk of concussion by absorbing shock

Dr. Antwan can customize a sports guard in your school colors or personalize it for added comfort and style.

Why Choose Custom Guards Over Store-Bought?

Boil-and-bite mouthguards from the drugstore may seem convenient, but they often lack durability and proper fit. Custom guards from Civic Dental:

Are molded precisely to your teeth and bite
Offer superior comfort and retention
Last longer with proper care
Provide better protection for specific dental or jaw issues

They’re also more comfortable to wear — making it more likely that you or your child will use them consistently.

Serving Vista & Surrounding Communities

Located in Vista, CA, Civic Dental serves patients from Oceanside, Carlsbad, Fallbrook, and beyond. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Dunya Antwan provides personalized, prevention-focused care. Our multilingual team (Spanish and Arabic) ensures that every patient receives clear communication and individualized attention.

We also offer Retainers for post-orthodontic maintenance and Smile Makeovers for long-term cosmetic enhancement.

FAQs: Occlusal & Sports Guards

How do I know if I need a nightguard?

If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or notice worn or cracked teeth, you may benefit from a nightguard. Dr. Antwan will evaluate your bite and symptoms during your visit.

Can a mouthguard help with TMJ?

Yes. A properly designed occlusal guard can relieve pressure on the jaw joint and reduce TMJ-related discomfort.

What sports require a mouthguard?

Mouthguards are essential for any contact sport or activity where falls or impacts may occur. Football, hockey, wrestling, and martial arts are common examples.

How long do these guards last?

With proper care, custom mouthguards can last several years. If you grind heavily or play frequently, replacements may be needed sooner.

Are guards covered by insurance?

Some dental insurance plans may cover occlusal guards when prescribed for bruxism. Sports guards are typically out-of-pocket. Check our Patient Information page for more details.