A night guard is a thin dental appliance that a patient wears to prevent teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism. A night guard is worn overnight and stop your teeth from strong biting forces. Bruxism has negative effects on your oral health and can cause wear and tears to your teeth, lead to tooth sensitivity, deteriorate tooth enamel, and cause jaw pain. Some oral issues such as gum inflammation, toothaches, and jaw muscle pain can be easily managed, but bruxism can adversely affect your speaking, chewing, and eating abilities. Wearing a night guard can help prevent damage to your facial structure. While talking about overnight mouth guards, people are often concerned if a night guard can shift their teeth.
Can Mouth Guard Move Your Teeth?
It is possible that a night guard may slightly shift your teeth. This is due to the pressure exerted on the teeth, which causes minor movement to the teeth. Over-the-counter night guards are cheaper and are often the culprits of teeth shifting. However, it is possible to prevent your bite’s alteration by ordering a custom made mouth guard from your dentist. Though it will cost you more, spending a few more dollars is worth saving your bite.
What Are The Different Types Of Mouth Guards?
Over-the-counter: over-the-counter night guards are generally made mouth guards that can be easily bought from a pharmacy, and you don’t need any prescription for that. These types of mouthguards are very cheap and come with a disadvantage. They might not be very comfortable and may alter your bite.
Custom Night Guard: Custom night guards are specifically designed for each individual and help prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching. A custom night is made in a laboratory after your dentist takes your mouth measurements and notes the desired outcomes.
Tips For Sleeping With A Mouth Guard
During the initial days of wearing your night guard, your teeth might feel weird. Some patients also complain that their front teeth hurt. However, this is quite normal, and soon you will be happy and comfortable wearing it.
The following tips will help you adjust to a night guard:
1. Get a custom night guard
A custom-designed mouth guard will perfectly fit your mouth and better cater to your needs. This way, you will feel less irritation during your
sleep.
2. Wear it more often
Not only at night, but you should also wear your mouth guard during the day for short times to make your mind and mouth used to adjusting to a foreign object. You will also learn how to breathe when wearing a mouthguard.
3. Keep things clean
Keeping your night guard clean will give you good vibes while wearing it, and you will also feel more comfortable. Softly brush your mouthguard with liquid soap and thoroughly dry it off; otherwise, your guard might start smelling due to moisture buildup.
If you have further questions, please let us know. The dental experts at Vintage Smile Family Dentistry can help you. For queries and appointment, call (281) 251-7770.