About 8% of the population has sleep bruxism, a condition associated with teeth grinding and jaw clenching. If left unaddressed, this disorder can result in tooth pain, headaches, and permanent damage to the teeth. In severe cases, it may cause severe facial pain and chewing problems.
While there is no cure for bruxism, you can minimize its impact on your teeth and the surrounding tissues. One way to prevent complications is to wear night guards during sleep.
These devices serve as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from rubbing against each other. As a result, they may help reduce jaw pain and minimize tooth damage.
The challenge lies in finding a dental night guard that meets your needs. Wearing the wrong device can cause discomfort and affect your sleep. Plus, there are different types of mouthguards on the market — and each has distinct features.
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the different types of night guards and how to choose the right one for you.
Stock Mouthguards
This model appeals to those looking for an inexpensive teeth guard. It’s widely available in most stores and comes in small, medium, and large sizes.
Stock mouthguards are pre-made — hence their low price. For this reason, they may not fit all. Most models tend to be bulky and uncomfortable.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
This kind of dental night guard is a slightly better option than stock mouthguards. It comes in one size, but you can soften it in boiling water and then mold it to the shape of your teeth.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards can be found in most drug stores. They’re relatively cheap, but they can’t match the quality of a custom teeth guard.
Custom-Made Night Guards
Custom-made mouthguards are designed for each patient based on their dental impressions. They’re built for fit and comfort, offering optimal protection for your teeth.
These dental appliances often last longer than stock or boil-and-bite night guards. Although they’re more expensive, you’ll get better value for your money. Plus, you’ll enjoy optimum comfort at night or whenever you choose to wear the mouthguard.
Soft, Hard, or Hybrid Mouthguards
Most types of night guards come in different models and designs.
Soft mouthguards, for example, can be a good choice for mild to moderate cases of bruxism. These devices are made from soft resin or other rubbery materials, offering greater comfort than hard mouthguards. The downside is that they’re not as durable as other models.
Hard night guards, on the other hand, are suitable for those with severe bruxism. They’re less flexible but more durable than soft mouthguards and may help prevent your teeth from shifting.
Hybrid, or dual-laminated mouthguards, offer the best of both worlds. They’re flexible enough to ensure optimal comfort, but they can also withstand the heavy forces of teeth grinding.
Discover the Best Night Guards for Your Needs
If you’re constantly grinding your teeth, consider wearing custom-made night guards. Your dentist in Wilmington, North Carolina will recommend one that meets your needs and then take your dental impressions to find the perfect fit.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Bruxism can affect your teeth and cause all sorts of problems, from jaw pain to headaches. Contact our team to book an appointment and see how we can help!