A night guard, also known as a mouth guard or occlusal guard, is a dental appliance worn over the teeth while sleeping to protect them from grinding and clenching. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common habit that can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, and other oral health issues.
The dentist in Wylie and their oral team specialize in providing the best quality night guards to safeguard the integrity of their patient’s oral cavity. Let’s explore these dental appliances further.
What are the types of night guards?
There are several types of night guards available, including:
- Custom-made night guards: Fabricated by a dentist to fit individual teeth, providing optimal protection and comfort.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) night guards: Pre-made, available at pharmacies and online, offering a more affordable option.
- Boil-and-bite night guards: OTC guards that can be molded at home for a semi-custom fit.
- Soft night guards: Made from soft, flexible materials for comfort and gentle protection.
- Hard night guards: Rigid, durable guards for severe grinding and clenching.
- Hybrid night guards: Combine soft and hard materials for balanced protection and comfort.
- Upper night guards: Cover only the upper teeth, suitable for those with smaller mouths or specific grinding patterns.
- Lower night guards: Cover only the lower teeth, often preferred for comfort and ease of speech.
- Full-coverage night guards: Cover all teeth, providing comprehensive protection.
What are the benefits of night guards?
Here is a comprehensive list of benefits of wearing a night guard:
- Prevents teeth grinding and clenching
- Reduces jaw pain and tension
- Protects teeth from wear and tear
- Helps alleviate headaches and migraines
- Improves sleep quality
- Can help with TMJ disorders
- Reduces morning headaches
- Decreases tooth sensitivity
- Prevents chipped or cracked teeth
- Helps with bruxism treatment
- Relaxes the jaw muscles
- Improves oral health
- Boosts confidence
- Reduces dental work and expenses
- Helps with snoring and sleep apnea
- Relieves earaches and tinnitus
- Improves overall well-being
- Can help with teeth alignment
- Reduces gum recession
- Enhances quality of life
How to choose the right night guard?
To choose the right night guard, consider the following factors:
- Type of grinding: Mild, moderate, or severe
- Comfort: Soft, hard, or hybrid material
- Fit: Custom-made, boil-and-bite, or OTC
- Protection level: Basic, intermediate, or advanced
- Budget: Custom-made, OTC, or boil-and-bite options
- Dentist recommendation: Consult a dentist for guidance
- Material: BPA-free, latex-free, or hypoallergenic
- Size: Upper, lower, or full-coverage guard
- Adjustability: Ability to adjust the guard for a secure fit
- Brand reputation: Research the manufacturer’s reputation
- Warranty: Look for a guard with a warranty or guarantee
- Ease of cleaning: Consider a guard with a simple cleaning process
Additionally, consider the following steps:
- Consult a dentist for a custom-made guard
- Try a boil-and-bite guard for a semi-custom fit
- Choose an OTC guard for a more affordable option
How to care for your night guards?
To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your night guard, follow these care instructions:
- Rinse with mild soap and water after each use
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
- Store in a protective case when not in use
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
- Avoid storing in a humid environment
- Regularly inspect for signs of wear and tear
- Replace every 6-12 months or as recommended by your dentist
- Consider having your dentist clean and polish the guard
- Handle the guard gently to avoid damage
- Avoid biting or chewing on the guard
- Don’t use the guard as a mouthpiece for sports or other activities
- Clean your teeth and mouth before inserting the guard
- Avoid using the guard if you have a cold sore or oral infection
- Consider using a guard cleaning solution or mouthwash
A night guard is a simple yet effective solution for protecting teeth from grinding and clenching. By choosing the right type of guard and following proper care instructions, individuals can enjoy improved oral health, reduced jaw pain, and better sleep quality.
