Dr. Hunter McAreavy
General dentist
Stop teeth grinding damage in Westport, Kansas City
A custom night guard protects your teeth from grinding and clenching and helps your jaw relax while you sleep.
Read our patient reviews on GoogleWhy it matters
Protect your teeth while you sleep.
Many people grind or clench their teeth at night without knowing it. Over time it can wear teeth down, cause chips and cracks, and leave your jaw tight or sore, and it’s one of the most common causes of TMJ pain. At Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry Westport, we make custom night guards shaped to your teeth, so they’re more comfortable and protective than a store-bought guard.
- Custom-fit
- Shaped to your teeth
- Worn at night
- When grinding happens most
- Less jaw tightness
- Eases clenching
- Saves on repairs
- Helps prevent chips and wear
Signs you may grind
What to look out for.
- Learn more →
Sore jaw in the morning
Tightness or pain when you wake up.
- Learn more →
Worn or flattened teeth
Edges that look shorter or flat.
- Learn more →
Chips or cracks
Small damage you can’t explain.
- Learn more →
Headaches
Especially first thing in the morning.
Compare your options
Custom guard vs. store-bought.
Both go over your teeth at night. The fit is what makes the difference.
| Custom night guard | Store-bought guard | |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Shaped to your teeth | One size, or boil-and-bite |
| Comfort | Comfortable enough to wear every night | Often bulky |
| Made for | Your mouth only | Anyone |
Your visit
Getting your guard.
Talk it through
We ask about your sleep, jaw pain and any damage you’ve noticed.
Exam
We check your teeth and bite for signs of grinding.
Your guard
We make a custom guard shaped to your teeth.
Check the fit
We make sure it’s comfortable and show you how to care for it.
Cost & insurance
Care that fits your budget.
Have insurance?
We’ll help you use your benefits
Call us with your plan details and we’ll check your coverage before your visit.
Contact us →No insurance?
Join our Smile Club
A membership with preventive care included and savings on other treatments.
Explore Smile Club →Bigger treatment?
Flexible payment plans
Ask about options for spreading the cost of your care into monthly payments.
See payment plans →Your care team
The team you’ll meet here.
Dr. Hunter McAreavy leads general dentistry at our Westport office and has a passion for helping patients who feel nervous about the dentist. Whoever you see that day, our hygienists, assistants and care coordinators take the time to explain each step.
★★★★★
“I had a great experience here. Rachel was very personable and professional, and Dr. Hunter was the same.”
Rachel Converse
Registered dental hygienist
Chrissy
Dental assistant
Konner Lawson
Patient care coordinator
Nichole
Patient care coordinator
Meet the whole team
See everyone →How do I know if I grind my teeth?
A sore jaw or headache in the morning, worn or chipped teeth, or a partner hearing you grind at night are all common signs.
Why choose a custom guard?
A custom guard is shaped to your mouth, so it fits better, feels more comfortable and stays in place, which makes it more likely you’ll wear it.
Can grinding cause TMJ pain?
Yes. Clenching and grinding are common causes of jaw tightness and TMJ pain.
Is a night guard worth the cost?
A guard helps prevent damage that could need a bigger repair later, which can save you time and money.
Your next chapter starts here
We’re ready when you are.
Find a time that works for you and get to know our Westport team.