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Protect Your Smile from Nighttime Grinding and Athletic Impact
Occlusal & Sports Guards in Palo Alto, CA
Your smile works hard every day—and sometimes, it needs protection. At Denise Henderson DDS, we offer custom occlusal guards and sports mouthguards to shield your teeth from damage caused by clenching, grinding, or athletic activity. Whether you’re sleeping, training, or competing, our professionally made guards are designed for maximum comfort, durability, and performance.
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We proudly serve patients across Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Los Altos, and Stanford, offering personalized solutions backed by modern dental technology and expert care.
What Are Occlusal Guards?
Occlusal guards, also known as nightguards, are custom oral appliances worn while you sleep to prevent the effects of teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching. These unconscious habits can lead to:
- Tooth wear, flattening, or fractures
- Jaw pain and TMJ dysfunction
- Headaches or facial soreness
- Gum recession and sensitivity
- Disrupted sleep patterns
A properly fitted occlusal guard cushions your bite and keeps the teeth slightly apart, minimizing the stress placed on your muscles and jaw joint overnight.
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What Are Sports Guards?
Sports guards (also called athletic mouthguards) are protective devices worn during physical activity to prevent dental injuries. Custom sports guards are recommended for anyone participating in:
- Football, soccer, and basketball
- Baseball or softball
- Martial arts or boxing
- Skateboarding and cycling
- Lacrosse, hockey, and field sports
Unlike over-the-counter options, a professionally made guard is contoured to your bite, allowing you to breathe, speak, and play without distraction—all while reducing the risk of broken teeth, soft tissue injuries, and jaw trauma.
Benefits of Custom-Fitted Dental Guards
Whether you're protecting your teeth from nightly grinding or on-field impact, a custom-fit appliance offers unmatched protection and comfort. Key advantages include:
- Tailored fit for superior retention and comfort
- High-quality materials designed to last longer than store-bought options
- Improved performance—especially with sports guards that don’t restrict breathing or speaking
- Prevention of long-term dental damage and expensive restorative treatment
- Better sleep for patients using nightguards to treat bruxism
Both types of guards are fabricated using digital impressions for enhanced precision and easier wear.
Our Process for Creating Custom Guards
At Denise Henderson DDS, we make the process quick and easy:
- Consultation and evaluation to determine the type of guard you need
- Digital impressions of your teeth for a comfortable and precise fit
- Fabrication at a trusted dental lab using high-performance materials
- Final fitting and adjustments to ensure secure wear and effectiveness
You’ll receive care instructions and tips for cleaning and storing your guard to maximize its lifespan.
Who Can Benefit from Occlusal or Sports Guards?
- Adults or teens who grind or clench their teeth
- Patients with diagnosed TMJ disorders
- Athletes of all ages involved in recreational or competitive sports
- Individuals wearing braces or restorations who want to protect their investment
- Children and teens prone to nighttime grinding or playing contact sports
If you’re experiencing jaw discomfort, tooth sensitivity, or dental wear—or if you simply want to be proactive about protection—Dr. Henderson will help determine the best guard for your needs.
Why Choose Denise Henderson DDS for Custom Dental Guards?
Dr. Denise Henderson offers more than just clinical expertise—she delivers thoughtful, individualized care built around your lifestyle. With over a decade of experience serving families in the Palo Alto area, her focus on prevention, patient education, and modern techniques ensures you’ll receive the right solution with minimal hassle.
Our office provides:
- A calm, friendly environment for patients of all ages
- State-of-the-art digital technology for better fit and comfort
- Fast turnaround and clear guidance on guard use and care
- Ongoing support for long-term dental health
Schedule a Consultation for Your Custom Guard
Protecting your teeth starts with a simple step. Whether you're grinding at night, gearing up for the season, or just want peace of mind, we're here to help you safeguard your smile.
Call (650) 327-4755 or book an appointment online to learn more about custom occlusal and sports guards in Palo Alto.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental guards last?
With proper care, occlusal and sports guards can last several years. Replacement may be needed sooner for children or patients with heavy wear.
Will insurance cover my custom guard?
Many insurance plans provide partial coverage, especially for nightguards. We’ll help verify your benefits and provide a clear estimate.
Can I wear a guard with braces?
Yes. We can design guards that fit over orthodontic appliances while still offering protection and flexibility.
How do I clean my dental guard?
Rinse your guard after each use, clean weekly with a toothbrush or non-abrasive cleaner, and store it in a ventilated case.
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Give Your Teeth the Protection They Deserve
At Denise Henderson DDS, we believe in prevention that fits seamlessly into your daily life. From nighttime grinding to game-time impact, our custom occlusal and sports guards help keep your smile safe, strong, and ready for anything.