Dsalita Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common dental condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While some people grind their teeth during the day, most people do it unconsciously while sleeping. If left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to serious dental problems such as worn-down teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. One of the most common treatments for teeth grinding is the use of a mouthguard. However, it is important to note that not all mouthguards are created equal.
The Differences Between Athletic Mouthguards and Night Guards
One of the most common misconceptions about mouthguards is that any type of mouthguard can be used to treat teeth grinding. However, this is not the case. Athletic mouthguards, for example, are designed to protect the teeth and mouth from impact during sports activities. These mouthguards are made of a hard, durable material that is not suitable for teeth grinding. Night guards, on the other hand, are specifically designed to treat teeth grinding. They are made of a soft, flexible material that is comfortable to wear and can help protect the teeth from damage caused by grinding.
The Importance of a Proper Fit
Another important factor to consider when choosing a mouthguard for teeth grinding is the fit. A proper fit is essential for a mouthguard to be effective in treating teeth grinding. Athletic mouthguards are typically “boil and bite” mouthguards, which means that they are molded to the teeth by boiling them in water and then biting down on them. While this may provide a good fit for sports activities, it is not ideal for teeth grinding. Night guards, on the other hand, are custom-made by a dentist to ensure a proper fit. This allows them to be more effective in treating teeth grinding and can help prevent further damage to the teeth.
The Material Used
The material used to make a mouthguard is also an important factor to consider. Athletic mouthguards are typically made of a hard, durable material such as EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or polyurethane. While these materials may provide good protection for sports activities, they are not suitable for teeth grinding. Night guards, on the other hand, are made of a soft, flexible material such as silicone or acrylic. This allows them to be more comfortable to wear and can help prevent further damage to the teeth caused by grinding.
The Cost
Cost is also an important factor to consider when choosing a mouthguard for teeth grinding. Athletic mouthguards are typically less expensive than night guards. However, it is important to remember that night guards are custom-made by a dentist and are designed to treat a specific dental condition. While they may be more expensive, they are also more effective in treating teeth grinding and can help prevent further damage to the teeth.
The Risks of Using an Athletic Mouthguard for Teeth Grinding
Using an athletic mouthguard for teeth grinding can actually do more harm than good. The hard, durable material used in athletic mouthguards can cause further damage to the teeth by putting additional pressure on them. This can lead to worn-down teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. Additionally, athletic mouthguards are not designed to be worn for long periods of time, which is necessary for treating teeth grinding. This can lead to discomfort and may even cause the mouthguard to fall out while sleeping.
The Benefits of Using a Night Guard for Teeth Grinding
Using a night guard for teeth grinding has several benefits. First and foremost, night guards are specifically designed to treat teeth grinding. They are made of a soft, flexible material that is comfortable to wear and can help protect the teeth from damage caused by grinding. Additionally, night guards are custom-made by a dentist to ensure a proper fit, which is essential for treating teeth grinding. Finally, night guards are designed to be worn for long periods of time, which is necessary for treating teeth grinding while sleeping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to use the right type of mouthguard when treating teeth grinding. Athletic mouthguards are not suitable for treating teeth grinding and can actually cause further damage to the teeth. Night guards, on the other hand, are specifically designed to treat teeth grinding and are made of a soft, flexible material that is comfortable to wear. While they may be more expensive than athletic mouthguards, they are also more effective in treating teeth grinding and can help prevent further damage to the teeth.
