Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the Types of Mouth Guards: Learn about the different types of mouthguards available and their specific benefits.
- Choosing the Right Fit: Discover how to select a mouth guard that offers the best protection and comfort.
- Long-Term Benefits: Understand the long-term advantages of using a mouth guard for teeth grinding and clenching.
Introduction
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common issue that affects many people, especially during sleep. This condition can lead to various dental problems, including jaw pain, worn-down teeth, and even severe oral health issues. One effective solution to protect your teeth at night is using a mouth guard. In this article, we will explore the best mouth guards available to protect against teeth grinding and clenching, ensuring you make an informed decision for your dental health.
Types of Mouth Guards
Stock Mouth Guards
Stock mouthguards are the most readily available and affordable option. These are pre-formed and come in a one-size-fits-all design, which means they may not provide the best fit for everyone. They can be found in sporting goods stores and are often used for sports protection. However, their lack of customization can make them uncomfortable and less effective for teeth grinders.
Despite their limitations, stock mouthguards can be a quick and inexpensive solution for those who need immediate protection. They are usually made from soft materials, which can offer some level of comfort, but they may not provide the best fit or long-term protection for severe teeth grinding.
Boil and Bite Mouth Guards
Boil and bite mouth guards offer a better fit compared to stock options. These guards are made from thermoplastic materials that soften when placed in hot water. Once softened, you can bite into the guard to create an impression of your teeth, resulting in a more customized fit. This type of mouthguard is widely available and offers a balance between affordability and customization.
Boil and bite mouth guards are popular among teeth grinders because they provide a more secure fit, which enhances protection and comfort. They are also relatively easy to mold and can be adjusted if needed. However, they may not be as durable as custom-fitted options and might need to be replaced more frequently.
Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards
Custom-fitted mouthguards are considered the gold standard for teeth-grinding protection. These guards are made from an impression of your teeth, ensuring a perfect fit. A dentist may take the impression and send it to a lab where the custom mouthguard is created. This process results in a mouthguard that offers superior comfort, protection, and durability.
While custom-fitted mouthguards are more expensive than other types, their benefits often outweigh the cost. They provide the best fit, which means they are more comfortable to wear and offer better protection against teeth grinding and clenching. Additionally, they are made from high-quality materials that can withstand long-term use.
Choosing the Right Fit
Upper vs. Lower Teeth Guards
When selecting a mouth guard, you can choose between guards that cover the upper teeth, lower teeth, or both. Upper teeth guards are more common and are often recommended for teeth grinders. They provide a secure fit and protect the upper teeth from grinding against the lower teeth.
Lower teeth guards are less common but can be beneficial for individuals who find upper teeth guards uncomfortable. Some people may prefer a guard that covers both the upper and lower teeth for maximum protection. The choice between upper and lower teeth guards depends on personal preference and the severity of your teeth grinding.
Customization and Comfort
The level of customization and comfort is crucial when choosing a mouthguard. Custom-fitted mouthguards offer the best fit and comfort, as they are made specifically for your teeth. Boil and bite guards also provide a good level of customization, while stock guards may lack the necessary fit and comfort.
Comfort is essential because you will be wearing the mouth guard for extended periods, especially at night. A well-fitted mouthguard should not cause discomfort or interfere with your sleep. It should also be easy to clean and maintain to ensure long-term use.
Long-Term Benefits of Using a Mouth Guard
Protection Against Dental Damage
Using a mouth guard can significantly reduce the risk of dental damage caused by teeth grinding. Grinding your teeth can lead to worn-down enamel, chipped or cracked teeth, and even tooth loss. A mouth guard acts as a barrier, preventing your teeth from grinding against each other and reducing the risk of damage.
In addition to protecting your teeth, a mouth guard can also help alleviate jaw pain and other symptoms associated with bruxism. By providing a cushion between your teeth, the guard can reduce the pressure on your jaw muscles and joints, leading to less pain and discomfort.
Improved Sleep Quality
Teeth grinding can disrupt your sleep and lead to poor sleep quality. Using a mouth guard can help improve your sleep by reducing the noise and discomfort caused by grinding. A comfortable and well-fitted mouthguard can help you sleep more soundly and wake up feeling more rested.
Improved sleep quality can have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being. By addressing teeth grinding with a mouth guard, you can reduce the risk of sleep disturbances and enjoy better health outcomes.
Cost and Accessibility
Price Range
The cost of mouthguards can vary widely depending on the type and level of customization. Stock mouthguards are the most affordable, typically costing between $10 and $20. Boil and bite guards are slightly more expensive, ranging from $20 to $50. Custom-fitted mouthguards are the most expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $500 or more.
While custom-fitted mouthguards have a higher upfront cost, their durability and superior fit can make them a worthwhile investment for long-term protection. It's important to consider your budget and the level of protection you need when choosing a mouth guard.
Where to Purchase
Mouthguards can be purchased from various sources, including sporting goods stores, pharmacies, and online retailers like Amazon. Stock boil and bite guards are widely available and can be purchased over the counter. Custom-fitted mouthguards require a visit to the dentist, who will take an impression of your teeth and send it to a lab for fabrication.
When purchasing a mouth guard, it's important to choose a reputable source to ensure you receive a high-quality product. Online retailers often offer a wide selection of mouthguards, and many provide detailed product descriptions and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.
Maintenance and Care
Cleaning and Storage
Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your mouth guard. After each use, rinse the mouth guard with cool water and clean it with a toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material and affect the fit.
Store your mouth guard in a ventilated storage case to keep it clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can damage the material. Regularly inspect your mouth guard for signs of wear and tear, and replace it if it becomes damaged or loses its fit.
Regular Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the condition of your mouth guard and ensure it continues to provide adequate protection. Your dentist can check for signs of wear and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit. They can also guide how to care for your mouthguard and address any concerns you may have.
By maintaining regular check-ups and following proper care instructions, you can extend the life of your mouth guard and ensure it continues to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching.
Summary
Teeth grinding is a common issue that can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. Using a mouth guard is an effective way to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching, reducing the risk of damage and improving your overall oral health. There are various types of mouthguards available, including stock, boil and bite, and custom-fitted options. Each type offers different levels of fit, comfort, and protection, so it's important to choose the one that best meets your needs.
Investing in a high-quality mouthguard can provide long-term benefits, including protection against dental damage and improved sleep quality. By understanding the different types of mouthguards and how to choose the right fit, you can make an informed decision and protect your teeth from the harmful effects of grinding.
Need help? We've done the research for you and found the Best Best Mouth Guard on Amazon.
Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products on our list.
Best Mouth Guard - Reviews
The Best
Product information
For those experiencing mild teeth grinding during the day or night, we offer customizable options to suit your needs. Select a hardness and thickness level that works for you, such as our hard option with a 1mm thickness. Our mouthguards are clear in color, ensuring a discreet and comfortable fit.
Crafted in the USA, our custom mouthguards are made from 100% FDA-registered and approved materials. They are free of BPA, latex, and acrylic, prioritizing your health and safety. Our professional dental technicians follow a rigorous 12-step process, from initial fabrication and sterilization to thorough examination and final shipping. This meticulous approach guarantees each mouthguard meets the highest standards of quality and safety.
Unlike over-the-counter options, our mouthguards are tailored specifically to your dental impression. Our skilled dental lab technicians handcraft and adjust each guard to ensure a perfect fit, providing effective protection for your teeth. The straightforward 4.5-minute impression process can be completed at home with our user manual and video instructions. Enjoy the convenience of free shipping, smooth transactions, and contactless delivery.
This night guard has a selection of thicknesses and hardness. Material fully approved by the FDA. Variety of colors. For upper teeth and/or lower teeth.
The company doesn't support its product well. Expensive.
Our Thoughts - This night guard has a material fully approved by the FDA. May not be great for clenching. These may be fine for grinding during the day but not so much for clenching at night.
Very Good
Product information
For mild teeth grinding and day&night wearing: hard 1mm guard or soft 2mm Custom Mouth Guards for Every Level of Teeth Grinding
For those dealing with mild teeth grinding, whether during the day or night, we offer both hard 1mm and soft 2mm guards. If you have mild grinding combined with sensitive teeth or gums, the soft 2mm or 3mm guards are ideal choices. For moderate grinding, consider our hard 2mm guard or the hybrid 3mm guard, which features a 1mm soft inner layer and a 2mm hard outer layer. Severe teeth grinders can rely on our hard 3mm guard for the ultimate protection.
The process of creating your custom mouthguard begins with a simple 5-minute impression you can complete at home. Our experienced dental lab technicians will then adjust and customize the guard to fit your teeth perfectly, ensuring maximum protection and comfort. The result is a mouth guard that is tailor-made to your specific dental needs.
Crafted in the USA, our mouth guards are made from materials that are BPA-free, latex-free, and acrylic-free, sourced from both the US and Germany. Each guard is meticulously handcrafted by professional technicians following a stringent 12-step process. From initial fabrication and thorough sterilization to detailed examination and final shipping, every step is designed to deliver a product of premium lab quality and safety.
They are good value there is a bunch of these in the box. They stay in my mouth all night. Easy to trim down to the correct size.
Newcomers may find the night guard difficult to mold to their teeth.
Our Thoughts - Easy to mold with hot water, just make sure that you measure the water temp to ensure that you are getting the water hot enough. Just boil and bite!
Good
Product information
Charmpoo Mouth Guards are specifically designed to prevent the adverse effects of teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. These include jaw pain, tooth damage, and headaches. By redistributing the force from grinding or sports impacts, our mouthguards offer comprehensive protection and relief from these common issues.
Crafted from safe and soft materials, Charmpoo mouthguards can be easily molded in hot water to fit your unique bite. This ensures a comfortable fit that can be worn daily without discomfort. Our guards are designed for everyday use, providing consistent protection and peace of mind.
Each Charmpoo mouthguard set comes with six guards in two different sizes, along with a high-quality retainer case and step-by-step instructions. Whether you're a child, teenager, or adult, our mouthguards are designed to fit any mouth size. Made from BPA-free EVA, these moldable guards are easy to clean and reusable, ensuring long-lasting protection for your teeth.
These mouthguards are well-made and robust. Can be used when playing sports.
Can feel a bit uncomfortable if one is not used to wearing mouthguards. Some customers mentioned that it was difficult to mold, melted easily, and was uncomfortable to wear.
Our Thoughts - It will do the job nicely. One must be very careful not to overheat the mouth guard as it will melt and then become useless.
Good Value
Product information
Crafted from a variety of high-quality materials, our products are proudly manufactured in the USA, ensuring top-notch quality and durability. Designed for adults aged 10 and above, our items cater to a wide range of users, providing reliable performance for both sports and outdoor activities.
Additionally, our products come with a limited dental injury warranty, offering extra peace of mind and assurance. Whether you're engaging in intense sports or enjoying outdoor adventures, our gear is built to support and protect you every step of the way.
Made in the USA. good product for the price. Can be used for upper and lower teeth.
One size fits all. Can easily melt if it's kept in hot water for too long.
Our Thoughts - With such a low price doesn’t hurt to try it at least once.
Good
Product information
We prioritize the safety, construction, and daily comfort of our products, ensuring they meet the highest standards. Our mouthguards are made from safe materials and designed for easy, everyday use, providing reliable protection for those who grind or clench their teeth.
Our set includes four mouthguards in two different sizes, catering to children, teens, and adults alike. Made from a moldable material, Neomen mouth guards offer a custom fit for any mouth size, ensuring a perfect and secure fit for everyone. This adaptability makes them an ideal choice for protecting your teeth effectively.
Neomen moldable dental mouth guards are BPA-free and come with a convenient, high-quality case for storage. They are easy to clean and can be reused multiple times, providing long-lasting value and protection. The package includes detailed instructions for use and maintenance, making it simple to keep your mouth guard in top condition.
Fits to accommodate any mouth size. BPA free. Can be used for upper teeth and/or lower teeth.
First-time users may have issues trying to fit the mouthguard.
Our Thoughts - Good enough. This mouth guard is great when heated in water between 160°F to 180°F and follow the instructions to let it cool off for about 15 seconds.
Good
Product information
Crafted specifically for women, our mouthguards are made from premium dental-grade materials that are free from BPA, latex, odors, color additives, and phthalates. Designed for a smaller fit, these mouthguards can be easily trimmed, molded, and re-molded as needed to ensure a perfect custom fit. We stand by our product with a 100% satisfaction guarantee or your money back.
Our grind guards are effective in eliminating bruxism, jaw clenching, and teeth grinding, providing relief from TMJ disorders and allowing for uninterrupted sleep throughout the night. By relaxing the jaw muscles, these night guards prevent the teeth from biting down, grinding, and clenching, thus alleviating a variety of dental discomforts.
These dental trays are designed with a durable bottom for longevity, complemented by soft and thin flexible sides for a comfortable and secure fit. The flexible sides ensure maximum comfort, making the mouthguard suitable for any mouth size, regardless of teeth alignment or size. The moldable material allows for easy customization to accommodate individual needs.
Our sleeping guard for teeth grinding ensures you get a full night's rest without any discomfort. The nightguard provides comprehensive protection while maintaining optimal comfort. Shield your teeth and enjoy a peaceful, undisturbed sleep with the GRINDSHIELD mouthguard.
Each package includes four protective nightguards that can be kept clean and sanitized using the provided sanitizer case. This case protects the custom nightguards from dust, mold, and germs. Additionally, the travel case offers ample space to store two mouth trays, ensuring they remain clean and hygienic while on the go.
BPA free. Super comfy and effective for smaller adult mouths.
Maybe a bit thin for hard grinders. Some customers didn't receive four mouthguards.
Our Thoughts - It will do the job. Helps with habit grinding.
FAQ
1How do I know if I need a mouth guard for teeth grinding?
If you experience symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth, you may be grinding your teeth at night. A dentist can diagnose bruxism and recommend a mouth guard to protect your teeth.
Can I use a sports mouth guard for teeth grinding?
While sports mouthguards protect physical activities, they may not offer the same level of comfort and fit as a mouthguard designed specifically for teeth grinding. It's best to use a mouth guard that is intended for nighttime use.
How often should I replace my mouthguard?
The lifespan of a mouthguard depends on the type and level of wear. Stock boil and bite guards may need to be replaced more frequently, while custom-fitted guards can last longer. Regularly inspect your mouth guard for signs of wear and replace it if it becomes damaged or loses its fit.
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Elice Fernandez
Elice Fernandez
