Hello, Dr. Dayanayev, here from Steinway Family Dental Center. We get a lot of questions about mouth guards or night guards, and today we're going to answer some of the most common questions we have received so far.
What is a mouth guard or night guard, and why would someone need one?
A mouth guard or night guard is typically given to someone who either clenches or grinds their teeth. It's called bruxism. When we grind our teeth or bite very hard on them, it usually happens when we're not aware of it. Some people do it while they're awake and would know about it. Most people do it at night without realizing it unless a loved one tells them.
If you're sleeping with someone who clenches or grinds their teeth, it can be quite annoying. Usually, the spouse will complain, or sometimes parents will notice it in their children. The night guard protects the teeth by separating the upper and lower teeth, providing enough cushion so you don't damage them or anything around them.
What is the most common type of mouth guard?
The night guard is one common type. There's also a guard called a reprogrammer. It helps someone stop biting in a certain way, correcting the bite and protecting the joint, preventing damage to the meniscus, the cushioning between the upper and lower jaw.
What is the mouth guard for grinding and how does it work?
When you grind your teeth, you're biting too hard. The joint here is similar to your elbow joint, which is at rest when it's neither fully bent nor straight. When we're sleeping, the jaw drops a little, so the teeth aren't touching, which keeps muscles and joints in equilibrium. However, when clenching or grinding, you're putting them too close together and applying excessive pressure without realizing it. Some patients complain of jaw pain or tiredness, or notice muscle enlargement due to this. Most people aren't aware they're doing it.
How can a mouth guard help with TMJ disorder?
By placing something between your teeth, they can't touch each other, protecting the enamel from being crushed. It also safeguards the joint because you can't close all the way, reducing muscle strain and preventing joint damage. That's the purpose of night guards.
What is the sleep apnea mouth guard and how does it help with breathing?
The sleep apnea mouth guard moves the lower jaw forward, opening the airway in the back for easier breathing. It doesn't force air down your throat like a CPAP machine, but it helps even the laziest muscle pull air in by keeping the airway open.
How effective are snore mouth guards in reducing snoring?
They're somewhat effective, but if the palate is too soft, it can still cause noise when sleeping. Other procedures, like laser treatment, can shrink the palate, allowing for easier breathing and reduced snoring.
What is the difference between store-bought night guards and custom-made ones by a dental laboratory or doctor?
The difference lies in precision. A custom-made guard is more precise, specifically designed to protect you without causing damage. Store-bought ones are cheaper but lack the expertise of a dental technician, so it's best to have a professional create it for you.
How does the dentist create a snore or mouth guard or night guard for a patient?
The dentist takes impressions of the upper and lower teeth or uses a 3D video scan. This scan, free from radiation, captures the top, bottom, and how the teeth close. The information is sent to a laboratory, which creates a night guard, ensuring correct meeting points for the teeth, similar to a jigsaw puzzle.
How do you properly clean a mouth guard?
There are a few methods: a special bath with a vibrating device and liquid for cleaning, effervescent tablets (originally for dentures), or a larger brush with regular soap. A drop of Clorox can be used for thorough cleaning, making the night guard more palatable to wear.
How often does a night guard need to be replaced?
Replacement depends on wear from grinding. If there are cracks, it's okay, but holes indicate it's no longer protective. Once holes appear, it's time for a new guard.
Can a mouth guard or dental guard protect teeth during sports or when grinding teeth at night?
The purpose of these guards is to protect teeth from grinding. A mouth guard for sports, like those used by boxers, is different from a night guard. The latter is smaller, more comfortable, and serves a different purpose.
Are there risks or side effects of using the night guard?
There are no significant risks or side effects. It benefits by protecting your teeth and the temporomandibular joint without adverse effects.
When should somebody consider a sports guard for boxing or football games and so on?
Always protect your teeth during sports. You can be elbowed during basketball, for example. In sports like hockey, it's essential, but not necessary for activities like golfing.
That's all the recent questions we've received on this subject. As we get more, I'll answer them as well. If you have further questions or need specific answers, give us a call and schedule an appointment. Our telephone number is (718) 728-3314, or schedule below! Our staff would love to talk with you.