A night guard, also known as an occlusal guard or dental splint, is a removable oral appliance worn over the teeth, primarily during sleep. Its main purpose is to create a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth. While night guards do not actively reposition teeth, they play a role in maintaining dental alignment and preventing tooth movement.
Understanding Teeth Shifting
Teeth are not rigidly fixed structures; they can gradually shift over time due to various forces and conditions. Bruxism, characterized by involuntary teeth grinding or clenching, often occurring during sleep, is a common reason. The constant pressure and friction from bruxism can lead to wear on tooth surfaces and changes in tooth position.
Teeth also have a natural tendency to return to their original positions after orthodontic treatment, a phenomenon known as post-orthodontic relapse. This occurs because the periodontal ligaments that hold teeth in place retain a “memory” of their initial alignment, making consistent retention crucial to maintain results. Other factors like aging, gum disease, or tooth loss can also contribute to teeth shifting.
How Night Guards Provide Stability
Night guards contribute to dental stability by creating a physical separation between the upper and lower teeth. This barrier prevents direct tooth-on-tooth contact, minimizing forces from grinding and clenching. Without this barrier, pressure from bruxism can lead to tooth wear, fractures, and tooth movement.
The guard also helps to distribute biting forces more evenly across the dental arch. Instead of concentrated stress on individual teeth, the force is spread over a larger surface area, reducing the likelihood of specific teeth being pushed out of alignment. A night guard can also stabilize mobile teeth, especially when bruxism is a factor. It acts as a splint, holding teeth together and helping to maintain orthodontic results by mitigating grinding or clenching.
Beyond Tooth Movement: Other Benefits
Beyond their role in preventing tooth shifting, night guards offer several other advantages for oral health. They shield tooth enamel from the effects of grinding and clenching, preventing wear, chips, and fractures. This protection also extends to existing dental restorations, safeguarding them.
Night guards reduce jaw pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders. By promoting a relaxed jaw position and reducing strain on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, they alleviate tension. This muscle relaxation can reduce tension headaches and facial pain, providing relief for individuals who experience these symptoms due to clenching.
Types and Usage Considerations
Night guards are available in various forms, with custom-made and over-the-counter options most common. Custom-fitted guards are made from impressions of a patient’s teeth, ensuring a precise, comfortable fit and superior protection. Over-the-counter options are more affordable and accessible but may not provide the same fit, comfort, or effectiveness.
Proper care and hygiene are important for a night guard’s longevity and preventing bacterial buildup. After each use, the guard should be rinsed with cool water and gently brushed, before air drying and storing in a clean case. Consulting a dentist is recommended to determine if a night guard is appropriate for individual needs, especially for diagnosing underlying issues like severe bruxism or TMJ disorders.