Grinding the teeth or clenching your jaw can mostly happen during sleep. People suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can also experience the same. A custom dental night guard is a perfect tool to protect your teeth and help reduce the chances of any dental issues that could unknowingly happen by clenching your teeth.
Night guards are bespoke dental appliances that act as a cushion between your upper and lower jaw. They are designed to custom fit according to the individual tooth impressions and help protect the bone structure from adverse effects of bruxism, grinding and clenching.
In this comprehensive guide, we have covered everything you need to know about night guards, their types, benefits and choosing the most suitable to your needs.
Understanding Issues Caused by Teeth Grinding
Tooth grinding, also referred to as bruxism is a common issue that affects many. This involuntary habit over time, can lead to several dental issues.
– Prolonged grinding can lead to enamel loss, fractures, and even tooth loss.
– It can strain the temporomandibular joint, leading to TMJ disorders. This can cause pain, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth, and difficulty chewing.
– Excessive pressure from grinding can lead to gum recession.
– It can cause chronic facial pain and tension, affecting daily activities and even sleep disorders.
It may happen the symptoms aren’t causing any pain or require remedy and your dentist may advise you to seek advice when the problem gets painful. In such cases, it is better to treat it firsthand with effective dental treatments such as Night bite guards.
What are Night Guards?
Night guards are often known as occlusal guards or dental mouth guards. They are custom designed to fit the tooth impressions and keep the upper and lower jaw from clenching each other. This can protect against dental issues caused by bruxism and help achieve better sleep at night.
They are typically composed of firm yet flexible material designed specifically for your dental needs and made from durable acrylic plastic or sturdy soft silicone. These custom dental night guards are tailored to fit comfortably in your mouth, providing protection and comfort while you sleep.
Types of Night Guards
Custom Fit Night Guards
As the name suggests, Custom fit night guards are tailored from scratch to fit exactly to the tooth impression of the patient. These bespoke night bite guards offer more comfort and precise fitting as it is been made according to the patient. Custom-made hybrid or hard night guards are recommended for the treatment of severe teeth-grinding cases.
Pros –
– They are moulded to fit with precision, providing optimal comfort and protection.
– Reduces the risk of dental issues because of the hard-modelled material.
– Offers the most longevity compared to its counterparts.
Stock Night Guards
Without any adjustment, stock night guards are pre-formed and ready to wear. Although these guards are usually the least expensive choice, they provide the least level of comfort and security. Because they are available in regular sizes, they might not fit properly, which could be uncomfortable or make breathing difficult while you sleep.
Pros –
– Stock night guards are the cheapest option, making them accessible to most people.
– They are available at most pharmacies and online stores.
– It is a ready-to-wear guard that eliminates any wait time of getting custom custom-designed guard.
Boil and Bite Night Guards
Boil-and-bite night guards are made from thermoplastic material. They are available over the counter and offer a semi-custom fit. To fit one, you boil it in water to soften the material and then bite into it to shape it to your teeth.
Pros –
– It offers a better fit than stock guards because you mould them to your teeth.
– More affordable than custom-made guards while providing better protection than stock options.
– The moulding process allows for a more secure and comfortable fit.
Benefits of Using a Night Guard
Using a night guard can provide numerous benefits, especially for those who grind their teeth or suffer from TMJ disorders.
1. Protects Teeth
Night guards create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other. This can help reduce tooth wear, chipping, and cracking.
2. Reduces Jaw Pain
Grinding and clenching can put excessive pressure on the jaw muscles and joints, leading to pain and discomfort. A night guard can help alleviate this pressure and reduce jaw pain.
3. Prevents Headaches
Many people who grind their teeth suffer from headaches, particularly in the morning. By reducing grinding and clenching, a night guard can help prevent these headaches.
4. Improves Sleep Quality
Teeth grinding can disrupt sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and fatigue. Using a night guard can help improve your sleep by reducing grinding and clenching.
5. Prevents Tooth Damage
Continuous grinding can cause significant tooth damage, including enamel loss and tooth fractures. A night guard can help protect your teeth from these issues.
Tooth grinding is a common condition that can lead to significant dental and health issues if left untreated. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and consequences of tooth grinding is essential for seeking appropriate treatment.
By managing stress, making lifestyle changes, and seeking professional dental care, you can reduce the impact of tooth grinding and protect your dental health. If you suspect you are grinding your teeth, consult with your dentist to explore the best treatment options for your needs.
Looking to get a custom dental night guard? Consult with your professional today. Contact us to know more.