Many people unknowingly grind their teeth at night, which can lead to worn, uncomfortable teeth that can even affect the jaw.
If you are getting mouth guards in NW Calgary, it is useful to know the benefits of an over-the-counter mouth guard versus a custom-made mouth guard. Being informed can help protect your teeth and improve your sleep.
Do I Need an Evaluation to Get a Mouth Guard?
A dental professional who is qualified to evaluate appropriate mouth guards can assess your teeth and jaw to determine whether or not you need a mouth guard.
Not all teeth grinding is the same; a qualified dentist in NW Calgary can recommend the appropriate mouth guard based on your situation, so you can wear it ordinarily and your teeth are protected with limited misalignment and uneven wear.
What Does a Good Mouth Guard for Teeth Grinding Look Like?
A mouth guard for teeth grinding fits snugly, feels comfortable, and protects your teeth from damage.
Whereas over-the-counter guards are affordable, they are often one-size-fits-all. Poor fit can reduce effectiveness and cause jaw discomfort. Custom-made guards offer a precise fit and last longer.
Key qualities of a good mouth guard:
- Durable material
- Snug but comfortable fit
- Protection for both upper and lower teeth
- Easy to clean
Can a Sleep Mouth Guard Improve My Nighttime Grinding?
A sleep mouth guard eases the grinding and prevents tooth wear, jaw ache, and headaches, and it would also protect your teeth and improve the quality of your sleep.
You can find boil-and-bite ones, and there are custom-fitted ones too, and you can seek advice from your dentist to find the best one.
How Do I Choose the Best Night Guard for Teeth Grinding?
The choice of the best teeth grinding night guard is based on your comfort, dental requirements, and affordability.
Custom guards are comfortable and effective compared to over-the-counter guards. A dentist would prescribe the following:
- Hard or soft material, depending on grinding severity
- Upper or lower jaw fit
- Regular checkups to adjust fit as needed
Choosing the best mouth guard can help you receive long-term protection and better sleep.
What Are the Risks of Over-the-Counter Mouth Guards?
Though convenient, over-the-counter guards are not without risks:
- Inadequate fit tends to cause jaw discomfort
- Can wear out quickly and must be replaced continuously
- Contain the potential to trap bacteria if not cleaned appropriately
- Can fail to cover all teeth uniformly
Your dentist can bypass these issues and provide a safe, efficient solution.
Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep!
Store-bought solutions will offer temporary fixes; a custom option will provide the safest and most effective solution for better sleep.
At Sage Hill Dental, we aim to provide solutions that are recommended for all your mouth cleaning and comfort requirements to wear throughout your sleep.
Contact us and book an appointment today for an assessment to prescribe a mouth guard if needed.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use an over-the-counter mouth guard safely?
Yes, but it might not fit quite so well or guard your teeth as much. A mouthguard made specifically for you is better.
Q2. How does a sleep mouth guard help?
It prevents your teeth from grinding, and thus pain, headaches, and ground-down teeth.
Q3. How do I know which night guard is best?
A dentist can tell you what kind is ideal for your teeth, jaw, and grinding pattern.
Q4. How long do mouth guards last?
Custom guards can last for a few years if you take care of them and put them away. Over-the-counter ones usually wear out faster.
