Types of Dental Guards for Different Grades of Bruxism
Burixism
Bruxism is a dental disorder characterized by the involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth. It is possible for it to happen while you are asleep or while you are awake. The intensity of it can range from minor to severe. Most dentists advise night guard for teeth grinding and bruxism to wear dental guards. These guards prevent tooth damage caused by grinding forces and help manage bruxism.
How Do You Know If You Have Bruxism?
Here are the most common signs and symptoms of Bruxism.
Symptoms
People who suffer from bruxism have the following symptoms:
- Tooth fractures from increasing tooth wear
- Having trouble fully opening your mouth
- Muscles in the jaw are tight and sore.
- Headaches with jaw pain
- Muscular soreness around the temples and on the sides of the head
- Sleeplessness
- Earache
If you have any of these symptoms, you must consult your dentist immediately and buy the appropriate mouth guard.
What are the Different Kinds of Mouth Guards Suitable for Bruxism?
The ADA describes several varieties of mouth guards. Some of them are as follows:
· Customized Mouth Guards
Customized mouth guards are specifically made by a dentist, considering the condition of a patient. These mouth guards are the most comfortable option.
· Boil and Bite Mouth Guards
You may get boil and bite kits of mouth guards at most pharmacy shops and sports goods outlets. These kits are used to soften the blow. You can soften their effect by dropping them in water, molding them according to your lips using biting pressure, and wearing them any way you like.
· Stock Mouth Guards
Stock mouthguards are ready-made and ready to use almost instantly. You don’t have to go through the trouble of sizing your mouth. However, they may not provide the best fit and cause discomfort eventually.
How Can You Choose Mouth Guards?
Consider the following factors before choosing a mouth guard:
- Mouthguards are designed for different levels of teeth grinding, from light to heavy. Choose the one that best suits your needs.
- Consider customized, boil and bit, or stock mouth guards. Go for the one that best suits your needs.
- Different mouth guards are made for different uses. If you grind your teeth at night, you must go for the ones made for night use.
- Always consider your budget.
Before opting for the correct dental guard, you must consider the intensity or degree of bruxism. Let's take a look at the many dental guards available to treat varying degrees of teeth grinding, including:
· Dental Guard Types
Soft dental guards
Soft dental guards are composed of flexible substance such as silicone or soft plastic. People who just have moderate bruxism are the ones who often benefit from using them.
Dental guards made of soft materials create a cushioning effect between the upper and lower teeth, which helps to absorb the pressures of grinding and protects the teeth from deterioration. They are easy to wear and have the potential to reduce the amount of strain that is felt in the jaw muscles.
However, it is possible that they are not as long-lasting as other forms of dental guards and that they will require more frequent replacement.
· Dual Laminate Dental Guards
Dual laminate dental guards are built with a blend of soft and firm materials to create a balanced and comfortable fit. They have a tough exterior layer that provides durability and protection, as well as a softer inner layer that cushions the teeth and protects them from damage.
People who grind their teeth sometimes but not constantly might benefit from using a dental guard like this one. The design, which has a dual laminate, strikes a compromise between comfort and efficacy in the management of grinding forces. It offers an adequate level of protection for the teeth while at the same time being comfortable enough to use when sleeping.
· Hard Dental Guards
Dental guards made of hard acrylic are the most durable form of dental guards that are currently available. People who have severe cases of bruxism or who have a history of injuring their teeth as a result of grinding their teeth may consider using these devices since they are constructed from a hard, inflexible material.
Hard acrylic guards are often created to order so that they can provide an exact fit for the individual's teeth. They offer the highest possible level of protection against the grinding forces, hence preventing tooth wear. On the other hand, because of their hard character, it may take some time to get used to them, and compared to alternatives that are softer, they may seem less comfortable.
· Hybrid Dental Guards
Hybrid dental guards give a customized solution for individuals who have special bruxism demands by combining the benefits of both soft and hard materials. They may have a layer of gentle cushioning on the side that is in touch with the teeth, whilst the layer that is exposed to the outside of the mouth is likely to be constructed of a more robust substance. Individuals who grind their teeth to varied degrees might benefit from wearing hybrid guards since they are designed to provide both comfort and protection to the wearer.
· OTC Dental Guards
Dental Guards Available Over-the-Counter (OTC) In addition to dental guards that are created to order, there are also dental guards that may be purchased over-the-counter for persons who have mild to moderate cases of bruxism. Dental guards available over-the-counter (OTC) are sold in pre-formed sizes and do not require a prescription from a dentist to be purchased. They are often more affordable than guards that are manufactured to order, but the degree of protection they offer and the way they fit may not be optimal. For people who do not have a severe case of bruxism, over-the-counter guards can be a solution that is both temporary and economical.
Remember…
It is essential to keep in mind that dental guards, regardless of the kind, must be correctly fitted and adjusted to achieve the highest level of efficiency possible. Dental guards that are designed specifically for an individual offer the highest level of protection, as well as the most optimal level of comfort. Your bite and jaw alignment is unique; therefore, in order to construct a dental guard that is customized to fit your needs, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth.
Final Word
Dental guards are an efficient method of treating bruxism and protecting teeth from the damaging effects of grinding pressures. The intensity or degree of bruxism should be taken into consideration while selecting the appropriate tooth guard.
Dental guards made of soft material are appropriate for patients with mild bruxism, guards made of dual laminate give a compromise between comfort and efficacy for patients with moderate bruxism, and guards made of hard acrylic provide maximal protection for patients with severe bruxism.
If you are suffering from Bruxism, you must consult a dentist immediately. They might require you to wear mouth guards until your treatment plan is finalized. Get your hands on the best online night guards here.
