Many people grind or clench their teeth (called parafunction) without even realising it — especially at night. Over time, this can wear down teeth, overload the jaw joints, and cause headaches or facial pain. At Switch Dental in Lower Hutt, we create custom nightguards and splints that fit your mouth perfectly, helping protect your teeth and reduce strain on your muscles and jaw. Whether you’re waking up with a tight jaw or your dentist has spotted signs of wear, we’re here to help you stay comfortable and pain-free.
Grinding and clenching may sound minor, but they can create real problems if left untreated.
You might notice:
- Flattened or chipped teeth
- Jaw clicking or stiffness
- Headaches in the morning
- Tender chewing muscles or neck aches
Often, these are signs of bruxism (grinding/clenching) or TMJ (jaw joint) strain. And many patients don’t feel it happening — we often see the signs first.
At Switch, we use advanced diagnostic tools to help us understand what’s going on — including our TRIOS digital scanner, which shows us where your teeth are wearing down, and hands-on muscle checks (like gently pressing on the masseter muscle, the main one used when clenching). Together, this gives us a clear picture of whether a custom splint might help — or whether other solutions like Botox injections for jaw pain could be worth exploring.
We don’t use off-the-shelf guards. Our appliances are made just for you — shaped to your teeth and bite for optimal comfort and performance. Depending on your needs, we may recommend:
- Nightguards: Slim, protective mouthpieces worn while you sleep. They act like a cushion, protecting your teeth from further damage and letting jaw muscles relax.
- Occlusal Splints: A more structured appliance that can gently guide your bite into a more relaxed, stable position. These are often used in TMJ-related cases.
What’s the process like?
1. Consultation and Diagnosis
We’ll assess your teeth, bite, muscle tenderness, and wear patterns using photos, scans, and palpation.
2. Digital Scans
Using our TRIOS scanner, we take a precise 3D model — no gooey impressions needed.
3. Custom Fabrication
Your splint is made from durable, biocompatible acrylic, custom-fitted to your bite.
4. Fitting and Adjustments
When your splint is ready, we’ll check the fit, make any adjustments, and show you how to use it properly.
5. Review and Long-Term Care
We’ll review it periodically to ensure it’s still doing its job — and replace it if your bite or teeth change significantly.
How long do I need to wear it?
Usually overnight, every night. Some people need daytime splints too if they clench during the day.
Is it uncomfortable?
There’s a short adjustment period, but most people get used to it quickly. It should feel snug, not tight or bulky.
What if I think I’m grinding, but I’m not sure?
We’ll look for signs like wear patterns, cracked fillings, or muscle tenderness — and use our scanner to help confirm it.
Why Choose Switch Dental for Nightguards & Splints?
At Switch Dental, we don’t just hand you a splint and send you on your way. We take a holistic view — assessing what’s driving the issue, whether it’s stress, jaw imbalance, or something else — and tailor a plan that works for you. We’re known for:
- Tech that makes it easier – TRIOS digital scanning helps us diagnose more clearly and craft better appliances.
- Experienced eyes and hands – We know what to look for when it comes to parafunction, joint strain, and muscle overload.
- Real collaboration – From guards to Botox and beyond, we guide you through options that make sense for your life, not just your teeth.
