Night Guards & Mouth Guards for Teeth Grinding
Do Night Guards Help with Teeth Grinding?
What Mouth Guards Stop Teeth Grinding at Night?
Stock Mouthguards
Pre-formed and ready to wear but often offer a poor fit.
Boil-and-Bite Mouth guards
Made from thermoplastic material that softens when boiled and then moulded to your teeth.
Custom-Fitted Mouth guards
Made by a dentist for the best fit and maximum protection.
What Are the Best Night Guards for Teeth Grinding?
What Are the Risks of Wearing a Mouthguard?
Improper Fit
A poorly fitting mouthguard can cause discomfort. It can also make it difficult to breathe and talk. Additionally, it may not provide adequate protection for your teeth. Dentists recommend custom-fitted mouthguards for the best fit and comfort.
Bacterial Growth
Mouthguards can harbor bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms if not cleaned regularly. This can lead to oral infections, bad breath, and other health issues. Proper hygiene practices, such as rinsing the mouthguard after each use and cleaning it thoroughly, are essential.
Wear and Tear
Over time, mouthguards can become worn out and less effective. Regular inspection and replacement are necessary to ensure they continue to provide optimal protection.
Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may be allergic to the materials used in mouthguards. It’s important to consult with a dentist to choose a hypoallergenic option if you have known allergies.
When Should You Wear a Mouthguard?
Sports and Physical Activities
Any sport that involves physical contact, falls, or flying objects can pose a risk to your teeth. Sports like football, hockey, basketball, and martial arts are common scenarios where mouthguards are crucial.
Nighttime Protection
Individuals who grind their teeth (bruxism) during sleep should wear a night guard. This helps prevent tooth wear, jaw pain, and other related issues.
Orthodontic Protection
If you have braces or other dental appliances, wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth and braces during sports. It helps prevent damage that can occur while playing sports or engaging in activities.
How to Use a Mouthguard
Choosing the Right Type
Select the appropriate mouthguard based on your needs: stock, boil-and-bite, or custom-fitted. Custom-fitted mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort.
Wearing
Place the mouthguard over your upper teeth before starting the activity. Ensure it fits snugly and doesn’t hinder your breathing or speaking.
Fitting
For boil-and-bite mouthguards, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mould the mouthguard to your teeth. Your dentist will mould custom-fitted mouthguards.
Maintenance
Rinse the mouthguard before and after each use. Clean it with a toothbrush and toothpaste or in a solution recommended by your dentist. Store it in a ventilated case when not in use.
Why Wear a Mouthguard at Night?
Preventing Tooth Damage
Night guards protect teeth from the excessive wear and tear caused by grinding and clenching during sleep.
Alleviating Jaw Pain
They help reduce the strain on the jaw muscles, alleviating pain and discomfort associated with bruxism.
Improving Sleep Quality
By minimising discomfort and preventing tooth damage, night guards can contribute to a more restful sleep.
Protecting Dental Work
Night guards can help protect expensive dental work, such as crowns and bridges, from damage caused by grinding.
FAQs About Mouthguards and Night Guards
When Should You Wear a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards are essential in various situations to protect your teeth and mouth:
Sports and Physical Activities: Any sport that involves physical contact, falls, or flying objects can pose a risk to your teeth. Sports like football, hockey, basketball, and martial arts are common scenarios where mouthguards are crucial.
Night Time Protection: Individuals who grind their teeth (bruxists) during sleep should wear a night guard. This helps prevent tooth wear, jaw pain, and other related issues.
Orthodontic Protection: If you have braces or other dental appliances, wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth and braces during sports. It helps prevent damage that can occur while playing sports or engaging in activities.
Do Night Guards Help with Teeth Grinding?
What Are the Best Night Guards for Teeth Grinding?
Is It Better to Have a Night Guard on Top or Bottom Teeth?
Can You Bite Through a Night Guard?
Is a Hard or Soft Night Guard Better?
Hard Night Guards (Acrylic Occlusal Splints):
More durable and longer-lasting
Better for severe grinding
Soft Night Guards
More comfortable for mild grinding
Can wear out faster
Do I Have to Wear a Night Guard Forever?
What Happens if I Wear My Night Guard Without Brushing My Teeth?
Should I Brush My Night Guard Every Night and Next Morning?
What Are the Risks of Wearing a Mouthguard?
While mouthguards are generally safe and effective, there are potential risks if not used or maintained properly:
Improper Fit: A poorly fitting mouthguard can cause discomfort. It can also make it difficult to breathe and talk. Additionally, it may not provide adequate protection for your teeth. Dentists recommend custom-fitted mouthguards for the best fit and comfort.
Bacterial Growth: Mouthguards can harbour bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms if not cleaned regularly. This can lead to oral infections, bad breath, and other health issues. Proper hygiene practices, such as rinsing the mouthguard after each use and cleaning it thoroughly, are essential.
Wear and Tear: Over time, mouthguards can become worn out and less effective. Regular inspection and replacement are necessary to ensure they continue to provide optimal protection.
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to the materials used in mouthguards. It’s important to consult with a dentist to choose a hypoallergenic option if you have known allergies.
How to Use a Mouthguard?
Using a mouthguard effectively involves several key steps:
Choosing the Right Type: Select the appropriate mouthguard based on your needs: stock, boil-and-bite, or custom-fitted. Custom-fitted mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort.
Fitting: For boil-and-bite mouthguards, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mould the mouthguard to your teeth. Your dentist will mould custom-fitted mouthguards.
Wearing: Using your thumbs, push the mouthguard up and back against your molars. Ensure it fits snugly and doesn’t hinder your breathing or speaking.
Maintenance: Rinse the mouthguard before and after each use. Clean it with a toothbrush and toothpaste or in a solution recommended by your dentist. Store it in a ventilated case when not in use.
How Should a Mouthguard Fit?
A well-fitted mouthguard should:
- Be comfortable and not cause gagging
- End between the first and second molars.
- Fit snugly without shifting
Do You Wear a Mouthguard on Top or Bottom?
Top Teeth: Generally for sports.
Bottom Teeth: Often for bruxism, as it offers better comfort and results.