Introduction
Sleep bruxism, a condition associated with repetitive jaw clenching and teeth grinding, affects about 8 per cent of the general population. If this disease is not treated, it may cause tooth pain, headaches and permanent damage to the teeth. It may result in severe facial pain and difficulty chewing in extreme circumstances.
Although there is no known treatment for bruxism, we can reduce the harm it does to the teeth and the tissues around them. Using night guards while sleeping is a way to prevent problems.
What is a Dental night guard?
Night guards are plastic fits for the top or bottom row of teeth. They resemble retainers.
Night guards are also known as bite guards, mouthguards, dental guards or nocturnal bite plates. They may also be referred by the less frequent names occlusal guards, bite splits or bite plates.
A night guard is commonly used for people who suffer from bruxism. Bruxism can significantly damage the teeth and interrupt peaceful sleep. This usually occurs in the early phase of the sleep cycle.
While night guards can also happen while staying awake, one can most of the time stop using them as it is visible.
Types of night guards
Although numerous types of night guards are available, we should be aware of the factors to consider while selecting the right one.
One should consider several factors, including the intensity of the symptoms, the materials used to make the night guard and more.
It is best to speak with a dentist to find out the best choice of dental night guards.
Types of night guards are:
Over-the-counter (OTC) night guards
They can be bought at the drugstore. They are usually less expensive because OTC night guards are not made of strong materials. They are often produced as boil-and-bite models or universal guards.
Custom-made night guards
These night guards are usually made in a medical laboratory, fitted specifically for the patient’s requirements using an impression taken from their mouth. They are more comfortable and durable because they are manufactured from high-quality materials.
For custom-made night guards, there are three alternatives.
Soft: Soft night guards are often manufactured from soft plastic, which also gives them a high degree of flexibility. They are designed for patients who have a tendency to grind their teeth severely.
One of the drawbacks of wearing a soft night guard is that it cannot last as long because users might feel the temptation to bite down on its soft texture even more.
Hard: Compared to soft night guards, hard night guards are less flexible since they are composed of harder plastic or acrylic. They are advised for people who frequently clench or grind their teeth more firmly than usual.
Hard night guards need to be redone if the fit becomes loose or if the patient needs to have a procedure that could change the structure of their teeth.
Dual laminated: This type of night guard combines the benefits of soft and hard night guards since the interior is made of soft plastic and the exterior is made of hard acrylic. This combination offers durability and comfort for the patient.
Thermoplastic
Thermoplastic night guards automatically adjust themselves when put in the mouth or rinsed with hot or warm water. The material will perfectly fit every angle of the teeth as it is soft and slightly malleable.
Place it over the teeth. Since they are made of a special type of material, thermoplastic night guards fit more comfortably. These night guards are non-allergenic.
Regular mouthguards
Regular night guards are best for someone seeking a low-cost dental guard. Small, medium and large sizes of these guards are readily accessible in most stores.
Stock mouthguards
These are pre-made, which accounts for their inexpensive cost. These might not suit everyone due to this reason. Stock night guards have large, uncomfortable frames.
Boil-and-Bite night guards
This type of dental night guard is a superior alternative to stock mouthguards. It comes in one size, but one can shape it to fit their teeth by softening it in boiling water beforehand.
Most drug stores sell boil-and-bite mouthguards. They aren’t as good as a customised dental guard but are inexpensive.
Reasons to wear a nightguard
It is recommended for bruxism patients to use a nightguard since they are more likely to clench or grind their teeth, especially at night.
A nightguard is an important preventative measure against future significant dental work because grinding the teeth can be detrimental over time. Get medical consultation to know if there is a need to use a night guard.
Advantages of wearing a night guard
Improve sleep quality
One can sleep peacefully at night while wearing a night guard. By doing this, it stops the nighttime clenching. As a result, muscles become relaxed while sleeping.
Customised guards
A person is made to bite down on clay to obtain an exact duplicate of the teeth. This is later sent to a lab with the mould.
The dentist can modify the guard thickness based on the severity of the bruxism. The comfort of it is also checked by doctors.
Protect teeth from damage.
Teeth grinding at night can severely damage the teeth. Teeth also start to deteriorate. The risk around the roots rises as the enamel wears down. Moreover, this causes dental sensitivity, cavities and toothaches.
A dental guard protects the teeth from damage by reducing clenching while sleeping. This helps restore damaged and chipped teeth.
Reduce jaw and dental pain.
Issues due to bruxism include headaches, jaw pain, tooth pain and wear and tear on the teeth. To assist in preventing any pain, mouth guards are designed to be worn while sleeping.
Provides headache relief
The jaw experiences strain while clenching. Jaw discomfort can be felt in different degrees by patients. They struggle to follow their daily routines as a result of the headaches and migraines that arise. Nonetheless, it may be avoided by using a night guard.
Disadvantages of night guard
A major drawback of night guards that prevent sports injuries is that the user may use a dental guard that is loosely fitted and may not offer adequate protection. A night guard that isn’t properly fitted could lead to discomfort and biting issues over time.
The usage of night guards to treat teeth grinding carries some harm as well. Some professionals think that night guards, specifically over-the-counter ones, may exacerbate the signs of bruxism as clenching or grinding on an improperly fitted piece of plastic may irritate gums and increase inflammation.
Night guards don’t treat the cause of the problem, which is a significant drawback.
Several professionals believe that teeth grinding is more of a behavioural issue than a dental or sleep issue. A safe and well-fitted night guard may prevent tooth damage or wear in the short term. But, the best course of action may be to address the root of the issue.
Things to note while choosing a night guard
It is important to take good care of the night guard. It will help guard the teeth for a very long time.
Cleaning a night guard properly should be a part of the regular oral hygiene regimen. It will remain spotless for many years by maintaining the night guards with these cleaning suggestions.
- Wash it right away after use.
- Washing the dental guard immediately in warm water after every use helps remove any dirt or plaque present in the night guard.
- Lay the guard out on a clean surface and let it dry completely.
- Ensure the night guard is completely dry before storing it to stop bacterial growth.
- Selecting a smooth, level surface is ideal. It usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
- Use a strong storage case.
While not wearing the teeth guard, keep it in a strong case. Keep in mind that using it in the bathroom will eventually wear it down from the humidity. It is advisable to store it in the bedroom. - Brush it like cleaning your teeth.
- Use a toothbrush to scrub the guard carefully. This can also be done with the same toothbrush used for brushing the teeth.
Conclusion
A dental night guard shields the teeth from harm during activities like cycling, playing sports, or engaging in other active works that require movement.
One can purchase mouthguards from shops or visit a dentist to have a customised night guard. To prevent a patient from grinding their teeth while sleeping or to alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea, a dentist may advise wearing a night guard. There are various dental guard varieties. The ideal one might be recommended by a dentist.
