While often used interchangeably, mouth guards and night guards serve distinct purposes in oral health protection. Despite both being custom-fitted devices worn over the teeth, their primary functions, design, and when they are used, set them apart. Please continue reading as we explore the key differences between these dental appliances and the importance of scheduling an appointment with our general dentistry/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ, to maintain your oral health.
What is a Mouth Guard?
A mouth guard serves as a protective device worn over the teeth, primarily during sports or other activities where there is a potential for facial trauma. It functions as a cushion, absorbing and dissipating the force of an impact, thereby safeguarding the teeth, gums, lips, and jaw from injury. They are typically custom-fitted by a dental professional, as they are designed to stay securely in place to allow for comfortable breathing and speaking. There are several types of mouth guards, including boil-and-bite mouth guards, which can be softened in hot water and then molded to fit your teeth. Another common option is a stock mouth guard, which is preformed and typically less expensive, but usually doesn’t offer the best fit.
What is a Night Guard?
A night guard, also referred to as an occlusal splint or bite guard, is a custom-made dental device, normally made of plastic, that is worn at night to protect teeth from grinding or clenching. Essentially, it acts as a barrier, cushioning the teeth and preventing them from the harmful impact of bruxism and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Although over-the-counter night guards are available, custom-made guards are generally preferred as they offer a more comfortable fit, ensuring proper alignment and optimal protection. Without a night guard, you risk:
- Tooth wear and damage
- Tooth sensitivity
- Gum recession
- Jaw pain and stiffness
- Headaches and migraines
- Facial pain
- Sleep disruption
Beyond protecting against these conditions, night guards can be prescribed for other dental concerns, such as:
- Managing TMJ disorders: Night guards can help stabilize the jaw and minimize stress on the joints.
- Safeguarding dental restorations: They can help protect crowns, veneers, and bridges from damage.
- Preventing orthodontic relapse: After braces are removed or clear aligners are no longer necessary, night guards can help maintain tooth position.
How Do They Differ?
While both mouth guards and night guards offer crucial dental protection, their applications are different. Mouth guards are generally more resilient than night guards to withstand significant forces. Night guards, on the other hand, are thinner, designed to protect the teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism and clenching.
As you can see, mouth guards and night guards are crucial preventative tools in dentistry, offering a simple yet effective solution to mitigate the damaging consequences of certain conditions and promote oral health. At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we are prepared to help you determine the most appropriate type of guard for your unique needs. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
