End Bruxism Discomfort with Bruxism Guards Custom Relief

Bruxism guards, also known as night guards or dental guards, are protective devices worn over the teeth to prevent damage caused by bruxism, a condition characterized by teeth grinding and jaw clenching. 

These guards work by providing  a barrier that absorbs the forces exerted during grinding, thereby protecting the teeth from wear, fractures, and other forms of damage. 

The night guards are also commonly recommended by denturists for individuals who exhibit signs of bruxism,

Selecting between an upper or lower bruxism guard depends on several factors, including comfort, dental structure, and specific dental issues. Here’s a breakdown of key considerations:

Comfort and Preference: Many people find lower guards feel better because they’re less noticeable and potentially easier to breathe and talk with. However, some prefer the stability of upper guards, feeling they’re less likely to dislodge during sleep.

Dental Conditions: Upper guards might be better for those with crowns or implants, especially on the upper teeth. Conversely, individuals with TMJ issues might find relief from a lower guard due to reduced pressure on the joint. 

Bite and Occlusion: Your teeth alignment (occlusion) can influence the choice. Dentists may recommend upper guards for deep bites (significant upper teeth overlap) while suggesting lower guards for protruding lower jaws or teeth more susceptible to grinding damage.

Ease of Adjustment: Lower guards are often easier to adjust to, particularly for new users who might struggle sleeping with a guard initially. Their thinner design makes the adjustment period smoother. While upper guards might take longer to get used to due to their size, they offer robust protection, especially for heavy grinders.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your individual situation. Dentists consider factors like the condition of your teeth and jaw, the severity of bruxism, and any existing dental problems before recommending an upper or lower guard. They’ll also prioritize fit and comfort during the decision process.

Bruxism guards are a powerful tool in protecting teeth from the damaging effects of grinding and clenching. They work by distributing the pressure more evenly across the jaw, minimizing the impact on individual teeth. This protection helps prevent common complications like tooth wear, bone fractures, and other dental damage.

Numerous studies support the effectiveness of mouth guards in reducing bruxism symptoms and protecting teeth. Custom-made guards, in particular, have been shown to be highly beneficial. They can improve sleep quality, reduce muscle pain, and prevent further dental problems. For instance, a case study involving patients with severe bruxism found that consistent use of a custom guard led to reduced symptoms and better overall oral health.

Choosing between a hard or soft night guard depends on your individual needs and the severity of your condition. Known for their comfort and adaptability, soft guards are a popular choice for first-time users. They provide immediate relief and are particularly helpful for TMJ patients due to their cushioned fit, which can reduce grinding and clenching intensity. A study even found soft guards to significantly speed up recovery and improve treatment compliance.

While potentially less comfortable initially, hard guards offer superior durability and a firmer barrier against bruxism’s damaging effects. Research shows they’re more effective at reducing jaw muscle activity and preventing tooth damage in severe grinding cases compared to soft options. Hard guards distribute force more evenly across teeth and are less likely to encourage clenching, which can be an issue with softer guards. Therefore, for severe bruxism, hard guards might be a better long-term choice for better protection.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on you. Consulting a dental professional is crucial to determine the best type of night guard for your specific situation and ensure a proper fit to effectively address your dental health needs.

While bruxism guards are generally safe and effective, some patients may experience side effects. Here’s the possible night guard side effects and what to do about them:

Minor Discomfort and Irritation

Initially, wearing a night guard may cause discomfort or irritation due to the unfamiliarity of having something in your mouth while sleeping. This sensation often diminishes as you acclimate to the device. However, persistent discomfort or the development of pain should prompt a visit to your dentist to assess the night guard’s fit.

Poor Fit Leading to Pain and Pressure

An improperly fitted night guard, whether over-the-counter or custom-made, can cause significant pain, pressure, or soreness. Ignoring these symptoms can result in serious issues like shifting teeth or jaw misalignment. To address this, opt for a custom-fitted night guard if using an over-the-counter version, or get a new impression if your current custom guard is not fitting correctly. Sharp edges or incorrect thickness may also contribute to discomfort.

Shifting Teeth

A poorly fitted night guard can cause teeth to shift, exacerbating conditions like temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). This shifting can cause discomfort similar to that experienced with braces. If you notice your teeth moving, consult your dentist immediately to assess the fit and potentially create a new impression for a better-fitted guard.

Jaw Misalignment or Pain

Some night guards can cause jaw misalignment or exacerbate jaw pain, which can worsen bruxism and lead to other TMJ disorders. According to Dr. Michael R. Cortese, improper contact between the teeth and the night guard can intensify clenching and grinding issues. Consult your dentist if you experience these problems. They may suggest a different type of night guard or take new impressions to ensure a proper fit.

Nightly use is recommended for bruxism guards to ensure consistent protection against teeth grinding. However, the duration of use can vary depending on the severity and frequency of your symptoms.  Those experiencing jaw pain, teeth clenching, or severe nightly symptoms may require long-term use, potentially for years. Conversely, individuals with milder symptoms might only need a night guard for a few months. Consulting your dentist is essential to determine the optimal wear schedule and duration for your specific needs.

Rinse Immediately After Use: After removing your night guard, rinse it with warm water to remove debris and loosen any plaque.

Brush the Night Guard: Gently brush the night guard wit a toothbrush. You can use your regular toothbrush or a dedicated one. Avoid toothpaste, as its abrasiveness can damage the night guard. Instead, use non-abrasive cleaners like dish soap or Castile soap.

Dry Completely on a Clean Surface: Place your night guard on a clean, flat surface to dry completely, which usually takes 15-30 minutes. Ensuring it is thoroughly dry before storing prevents bacterial growth.

Store in a Case: Always store your night guard in a case when not in use. Avoid storing it in humid environments like bathrooms, as the steam can warp the material. Instead, keep it in a dry place such as your bedroom or nightstand, and away from pets that might chew on it.

Deep Clean Monthly: Perform a thorough cleaning at least once a month. Use a non-abrasive denture cleaner dissolved in water, or soak the night guard in a solution of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide. For vinegar, soak for 30 minutes, rinse, then soak in hydrogen peroxide for another 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.

Clean the Case Regularly: Clean the storage case every few days with dish soap or Castile soap, and avoid using the dishwasher to prevent warping. Ensure the case is dry before storing the night guard to inhibit bacterial growth.

Westmount Denture Clinic is committed to providing high-quality bruxism guards made from the best materials available. The clinic utilizes the latest technology and advanced techniques to manufacture and adjust bruxism guards, ensuring a precise fit and maximum protection.

The experienced and trained denturists at Westmount Denture Clinic offer personalized consultations to understand each patient’s unique needs and preferences. This individualized approach ensures that every patient receives a bruxism guard tailored to their specific condition and comfort requirements.

By choosing a high-quality bruxism guards from Westmount Denture Clinic, patients can ensure they receive the best protection and care available.