Night Guards · Clearwater, FL
Custom night guards in Clearwater that protect your smile while you sleep.
Waking up with a sore jaw, a headache or sensitive teeth? Nighttime grinding may be to blame. Dr. Jason Kopakin creates custom-fitted night guards that cushion your teeth and give your jaw a chance to rest.
25+ years in ClearwaterBest of 2025 — BusinessCafe
At a glance
What are custom night guards in Clearwater?
Custom night guards in Clearwater are thin oral appliances, made from precise impressions of your teeth, that protect against nighttime grinding and clenching (bruxism). At Boulevard Dental in Clearwater, FL, Dr. Jason Kopakin fits night guards in two simple appointments to protect enamel and restorations and help relieve jaw tension.
01Night Guards
Stop grinding before it causes serious damage
Bruxism — grinding or clenching your teeth during sleep — is an involuntary habit many people don't know they have. Night after night, it puts enormous stress on your teeth, jaw joints and surrounding muscles.
Over time, that pressure can wear down enamel, crack teeth, damage existing restorations and trigger jaw pain and chronic headaches.
Our night guards in Clearwater are made from precise impressions of your teeth, so they fit comfortably, stay securely in place and hold up to years of use — something generic store-bought guards simply can't match.
Made for your bite
Lab-fabricated from impressions of your own teeth for a secure, natural-feeling fit.
Protects your investment
Shields natural enamel as well as crowns, fillings and other dental work from grinding forces.
Helps your jaw relax
Reduces clenching force on the jaw joint so muscles can rest in a more relaxed position.
02Treatments
Signs you may be grinding your teeth
Many patients only learn they grind when their dentist spots the signs. Watch for these common symptoms.
- 01
Worn or chipped teeth
Flattened, worn or chipped biting surfaces are classic signs of grinding.
- 02
Tooth sensitivity
New or increased sensitivity, especially to hot and cold.
- 03
Morning jaw pain
Soreness, tightness or fatigue in the jaw and facial muscles when you wake up.
- 04
Headaches or earaches
Chronic headaches or earaches on waking, often alongside disrupted sleep.
- 05
A partner hears it
Someone you share a room with notices audible grinding during the night.
- 06
Tongue and cheek marks
Indentations along the sides of the tongue or irritation inside the cheeks from clenching.
03Our approach
How we create your custom night guard
Getting a night guard at Boulevard Dental is a simple, two-appointment process.
- 01
Evaluation
We examine your teeth and jaw for signs of bruxism and confirm whether a night guard is the right solution.
- 02
Impressions
We take precise impressions of your upper and lower teeth and send them to a dental lab for custom fabrication — typically one to two weeks.
- 03
Fitting and adjustment
At your second visit, we place the guard, check the fit and fine-tune it so it sits comfortably and works correctly.
- 04
Care and follow-up
We show you how to wear and clean your guard, then check its condition at your routine exams.
Ready when you are
Protect your smile while you sleep
Book a Night Guard Consultation
04Night Guards
Night guards and TMJ relief
Many people who grind also experience temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms — jaw pain, clicking or popping, difficulty opening and closing the mouth and headaches.
A custom night guard can play an important role in relief by reducing clenching force on the joint and letting the jaw muscles rest during sleep. If you're dealing with both grinding and jaw pain, we'll evaluate them together and recommend a comprehensive approach.
New patients & emergency appointments are welcome.
05Questions, answered
Night Guards FAQs
Still have questions? Call our Clearwater office at(727) 799-4897.
01How do I know if I need one of your night guards in Clearwater?
A dental exam is the most reliable way to find out. We look for worn surfaces, thinning enamel and stress fractures at every routine visit. If you wake up with jaw soreness, headaches or tooth sensitivity, mention it at your next appointment and we'll evaluate whether a night guard is right for you.
02Will a night guard be comfortable to sleep in?
Most patients fully adjust within a week or two. Because it's made from impressions of your own teeth, a custom guard fits far more naturally than anything over the counter, and the vast majority of patients find it easy to wear every night.
03How long does a custom night guard last?
With proper care, a custom night guard typically lasts three to five years, sometimes longer depending on how heavily you grind and how well it's maintained. We check its condition at your routine exams and let you know when it's time for a replacement.
04Can a night guard cure bruxism?
No — it protects your teeth from the damage grinding causes while the underlying causes are addressed. Stress management, behavioral therapy and, in some cases, treatment for sleep disorders can help reduce grinding. We're happy to discuss a broader approach for your situation.
05Is a night guard the same as a sports mouthguard?
No. A sports mouthguard absorbs impact during athletic activity, while a night guard cushions your teeth against sustained grinding and clenching during sleep. They're made from different materials and shouldn't be used interchangeably.
06Do children need night guards?
Grinding is common in children and often resolves on its own as adult teeth come in. If it's causing symptoms or visible wear, a night guard may be recommended. We'll evaluate your child's situation and advise accordingly.
07Does insurance cover night guards in Clearwater?
Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance plans cover part of the cost when bruxism has been diagnosed, and our front desk team will verify your benefits before your appointment. If you're uninsured, our Membership Plan includes 20% off most procedures, including night guards.
06Patient reviews
Why patients trust their dentist in Clearwater
“I recently switched to Boulevard Dental and Dr. Kopakin. I have to say I was very pleased with the experience. The office space is very relaxing and the staff capable and friendly. Dr. Kopakin reassured me that a filling I was told was needed did, in fact, not need attention. It's very important to feel one's medical provider is competent and trustworthy. Dr. Kopakin fits that profile.”
Bill R.Verified patient “I've been going to Boulevard Dental for over 5 years, and I can honestly say it's the best dental care I've ever received. My dental hygienist is absolutely amazing—she's so gentle and calming during cleanings, which makes the whole experience stress-free. The dentist is fair and trustworthy; he only recommends what truly needs to be done and never pushes unnecessary procedures. Finding a dentist you can trust is not easy, and I'm so grateful to have found this place. Highly recommend!”
TaraVerified patient “December was my first apt with Dr. Kopakin. Rachel, my hygienist, did a fantastic job. Very thorough. It was a refreshing change to hear my teeth and gums looked great, very health with no issues. The atmosphere is relaxed and calm and very inviting. I am so happy I switched dental providers. I highly recommend Boulevard Dental on Park Street (off SR 580)…”
Susan L.Verified patient “I had a great first experience at Boulevard Dental! From the second I walked in the door, the front desk staff made me feel right at home. My hygienist Lisa was wonderful and took great care of me, frequently making sure I was not uncomfortable (and I never once was!). Dr. Clark was my dentist, and he was very knowledgeable and thorough. He answered all of my questions and then some. Looking forward to coming back in 6 months!”
Brittany C.Verified patient
Related services in Clearwater
Appointments · Clearwater, FL
Protect your smile while you sleep
Don't let grinding damage add up. A custom night guard is a simple, comfortable and cost-effective way to protect your teeth, restorations and jaw. We offer morning and afternoon appointments Monday through Friday near SR 580 and US 19.