Occlusal Guards
in Ashburn, VA

Occlusal disease is damage to the teeth, gums, jaw joints, and supporting bone caused by a misaligned bite or abnormal forces from grinding and clenching. Left untreated, it can accelerate tooth wear, cause fractures, and lead to TMJ problems.

A custom occlusal guard from our office is precisely designed to your bite using digital impressions, distributing forces across all teeth evenly. Store-bought guards offer no bite correction and can actually worsen clenching habits.

You may benefit from an occlusal guard if you grind or clench your teeth, wake up with jaw pain or headaches, notice flattened or cracked teeth, or have been told your enamel is wearing down. Dr. Talwar will evaluate your bite to confirm.

Most patients wear their guard every night, though daytime options exist for those who clench during waking hours. Consistent wear is key to preventing progressive tooth damage.

With proper care, a quality custom guard typically lasts 3–5 years. Heavy grinders may wear through them sooner. We monitor wear at your regular exams and recommend replacement when needed.

Rinse it with cool water and brush gently with a soft toothbrush after each use. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material. Store it dry in its protective case when not in use.

A guard manages and protects against bite forces but does not permanently correct the underlying bite relationship. For long-term occlusal correction, we may recommend orthodontics, equilibration, or restorative treatment alongside your guard.

Coverage varies by plan. Many dental insurance policies cover a portion of custom occlusal guards, especially when bruxism or TMJ symptoms are documented. Our team will check your benefits before treatment.