The author of the article
Boris Lipovetskiy, DMD, 31 years experience
Are these devices the same? Is there a difference in what to use and when? Here’s an expert opinion from a dentist with 30 years of experience.
What is a Mouth Guard?
A Mouth Guard (occlusal guard) is a general term for devices worn over the teeth to protect or correct them. These include:
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Sports Guards. Protect teeth and gums from injury during sports activities.
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Night Guards. Prevent teeth grinding and clenching during sleep.
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Orthodontic Aligners. Used for straightening teeth and correcting bite alignment.
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Whitening Trays. Designed for at-home teeth whitening treatments.
What is a Night Guard?
A Night Guard is a custom-made dental mouth guard designed to be worn during sleep. It is crafted from molds of your teeth and fits over either the upper or lower jaw. The primary purpose of a Night Guard is to protect the teeth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) from the harmful effects of bruxism (involuntary teeth grinding and clenching) and other functional disorders of the chewing system.
What Works Best for Bruxism and TMJ Issues?
I recommend:
- Seeking professional consultation: Choosing a mouth guard on your own may be ineffective or even harmful.
- Using a custom-made Night Guard: It will provide a perfect fit and maximum protection for your teeth and TMJ.
- Avoiding standard or over-the-counter guards: These may not fit properly, reducing their effectiveness and potentially causing discomfort.
Benefits of Using a Night Guard for Your Teeth
- Protection Against Wear and Damage
- Prevents enamel erosion. A Night Guard acts as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact. This reduces the risk of enamel wear, cracks, and chips.
- Preserves fillings and restorations. Protects existing dental work like fillings, crowns, and other restorations from damage.
- Reduces Strain on the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
- Prevents TMJ dysfunction. Decreases excess pressure on the joints, lowering the risk of developing TMJ disorders, which may cause pain, clicking, and limited jaw mobility.
- Eases muscle tension. Helps relax the jaw muscles, reducing spasms and discomfort.
- Reduces Head and Facial Pain
- Alleviates muscle pain. Relieves tension in the face and neck muscles, which can lead to tension headaches.
- Prevents migraines. In some cases, reduces the frequency and intensity of migraines associated with bruxism.
- Improves Sleep Quality
- Fewer nighttime awakenings. Reduces discomfort, promoting deeper, uninterrupted sleep.
- Faster recovery. Quality sleep aids in overall recovery, boosting general well-being.
- Personalized Comfort and Effectiveness
- Custom-made fit. Night Guards are crafted to match the unique structure of your teeth and jaw, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal comfort.
- Hypoallergenic materials. Made from safe, non-allergenic materials to avoid reactions.
- Prevention of Further Complications
- Prevents periodontal disease. Reduces trauma to the gums and periodontium, helping to prevent inflammation and disease.
- Maintains the aesthetics of your smile. Protects teeth from damage, preserving their natural look and beauty.
If you notice signs of bruxism—such as morning jaw pain, headaches, increased tooth sensitivity, or enamel wear—we recommend consulting with a dentist. A professional consultation can help identify the root cause and provide the best solution for your needs.
