Night guards, also known as occlusal guards, are oral appliances worn during sleep.
They protect the teeth from damage caused by bruxism or teeth grinding. Bruxism is a condition in which an individual clenches or grinds their teeth, often unconsciously, which can cause various dental problems, including chipped or cracked teeth, worn-down tooth enamel, and jaw pain.
Night guards are made from a custom-molded plastic material that fits over the teeth and creates a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other.
The fabrication of a night guard involves taking impressions or 3D scans of the teeth and then sending them to a dental lab where they will create a custom-fitted night guard.
Night guards can also be used to alleviate symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), a condition that affects the jaw joint and can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders. Night guards can help to alleviate TMD symptoms by reducing the pressure on the jaw joint and promoting a more relaxed and natural bite.
Proper care and maintenance of night guards are important to ensure their effectiveness and longevity. Night guards should be cleaned regularly with dish soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush and stored in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Mouthguards are similar to occlusal guards; they help protect the gums and teeth while playing sports. Mouthguards are also custom-made to fit the teeth. However, they cover more of the gums and teeth for better protection during sports.