The question of whether one can choke on a night guard is a common concern. Understanding the design and proper use of night guards can clarify the actual risks involved. This article provides information on the safety of night guards, particularly concerning potential choking hazards.
Understanding Night Guards
Night guards are custom-made or over-the-counter dental appliances worn during sleep. Their primary purpose is to protect teeth and jaw structures from bruxism, which is involuntary teeth grinding or clenching. Bruxism can lead to significant dental issues, including worn enamel, cracked teeth, tooth sensitivity, and damage to dental restorations like crowns or veneers.
Night guards also manage symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. By creating a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, these devices cushion the impact of clenching forces, reducing strain on jaw muscles and joints. This can alleviate jaw pain, headaches, and other discomforts experienced by individuals with TMJ issues. They are typically made from durable materials such as soft plastic, vinyl, or acrylic, and are designed to fit securely over either the upper or lower arch of teeth.
Assessing the Choking Risk
The likelihood of choking on a night guard is generally low, particularly with a properly fitted device. Most night guards are designed to be too large to be easily swallowed or to completely obstruct the airway. They are typically one continuous piece of material that covers an entire arch of teeth, making accidental ingestion difficult.
However, the risk is not entirely non-existent and can increase under specific circumstances. An ill-fitting, too loose, or damaged night guard could potentially become dislodged during sleep. If a night guard breaks into smaller pieces, or if a very small oral appliance like an NTI-tss splint comes loose, the choking risk can be elevated. Such an event could lead to a foreign object partially or fully blocking the pharynx or larynx. Some individuals with sensitive gag reflexes might also experience a choking sensation, even if the guard is not actually obstructing the airway.
Preventative Measures and Safe Use
Minimizing any potential choking risk and ensuring safe night guard use begins with proper fitting. Custom-fitted night guards, made by a dental professional from impressions of your teeth, offer the most secure and comfortable fit. A well-fitted guard should feel snug and secure, without moving around or requiring the tongue to hold it in place, significantly reducing the chance of dislodgement during sleep. Over-the-counter, boil-and-bite guards may not provide the same precise fit and can sometimes be bulky, potentially increasing discomfort or the risk of movement.
Regular inspection of the night guard is also crucial. Users should routinely check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, chips, thinning material, or changes in shape. A damaged night guard can compromise its integrity and increase the risk of breakage or improper fit, necessitating replacement.
Maintaining good hygiene and following proper insertion and removal techniques further contributes to safe use. Night guards should be cleaned daily with a soft toothbrush and cold, soapy water to prevent bacterial buildup. When inserting, ensure the guard is positioned correctly and seats firmly over the teeth. To remove, pull down evenly from both sides, as they are designed to fit closely.