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Dental Mouthguards and Their Benefits
A nightguard and a mouthguard are both types of dental appliances, but they serve different purposes and are used in different situations. The key differences:
- Nightguard: Primarily used for protecting teeth from grinding/clenching during sleep.
- Mouthguard: Used during physical activities or sports to protect teeth and the mouth from trauma.
Store-Bought vs Custom-Fit Mouth Guards
Fit: Store-bought mouthguards are often one-size-fits-all or "boil-and-bite" designs, which can be uncomfortable and may not fit your mouth properly. A dentist provides a custom-fit mouthguard, molded specifically to the unique shape of your teeth for maximum comfort and protection.
Protection: Custom-made mouthguards offer superior protection, as they are tailored to your mouth and dental needs. Store-bought options may not fit well enough to absorb impact effectively, leaving your teeth and gums at risk.
Durability: Dentist-made mouthguards use high-quality materials designed to last longer and resist wear and tear. Store-bought versions are usually less durable and might need frequent replacement.
Comfort: Custom mouthguards are more comfortable to wear, reducing discomfort or irritation, while store-bought mouthguards can feel bulky or cause gagging.
Mouthguard (Sportsguards)
Purpose: A mouthguard is generally used to protect your teeth during physical activities, particularly contact sports or high-risk activities like biking, skateboarding, or boxing.
How it works: It covers your upper teeth and acts as a shield to absorb impacts and prevent injuries to your teeth, gums, and jaw.
When to use: You wear a mouthguard when engaging in sports or activities where there’s a risk of impact or injury to the mouth.
Material: Mouthguards are typically made from thicker, more durable material like EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) to withstand impacts.
Benefits: Mouthguards help protect against tooth fractures, dislocations, or lost teeth, as well as minimize the risk of injuries to the lips, cheeks, and tongue.
Nightguards
Purpose: A nightguard is typically used to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching, especially during sleep (a condition called bruxism).
How it works: It fits over your upper or lower teeth and acts as a cushion to absorb the pressure from grinding or clenching, preventing wear and tear on your teeth.
When to use: You would use a nightguard if you have been diagnosed with bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching), often associated with stress, anxiety, or sleep disorders.
Material: Nightguards are usually made from soft or hard plastic and are custom-made by your dentist to fit your mouth perfectly.
Benefits: It helps protect the enamel of your teeth from being worn down, prevents tooth damage or fractures, and reduces jaw pain, headaches, and tooth sensitivity caused by grinding.