Choosing the Right Night Mouth Guard: Factors to Consider

by | Aug 23, 2023 | Night Guard

Do you often wake up with a sore jaw or tooth pain? Are you tired of grinding your teeth at night, leaving you exhausted and restless the next day? If so, it’s time to consider investing in a night mouthguard. But with so many options available on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll explore all the factors to consider when selecting the perfect night mouth guard that will not only protect your teeth but also provide comfort and ensure a peaceful slumber. So let’s dive in and discover how to make those sleepless nights a thing of the past!

What is a Night Mouth Guard?

A night mouth guard is a type of dental protection that is worn during sleep to help reduce the risk of oral injury. Night mouth guards are made from a variety of materials, including silicone, and are available in different sizes to fit most dental frameworks. They should be fitted properly by a dentist or orthodontist and can help protect against sleep apnea, tooth decay, snoring, and other oral injuries.

What are the Different Types of Mouth Guards?

There are a few different types of mouthguards, so it’s important to know what factors to consider when choosing one.

The two main types of mouthguards are custom-fitted and ready-made. 

Custom-fitted mouthguards usually require a trip to the dentist, but they’re usually more comfortable and provide better protection than ready-made mouthguards. 

Ready-made mouthguards are available in a variety of styles and shapes, but they don’t always fit well and they can be less comfortable. 

Some factors to consider when selecting a mouthguard include: 

1. Protection Level: 

Choose a mouthguard that offers the level of protection you need. Many different levels of protection are available, from mild to extreme. 

2. Type of Sport: 

Mouthguards for different sports offer different levels of protection and should be selected based on the sport being played. For example, ice hockey players need stronger protection than football players who rely more on speed and agility. 

3. Oral Health: 

Mouthguards must fit well if they’re going to provide effective protection against dental injuries. If your teeth aren’t in good condition, a custom-fitted mouth guard may not be the best option for you. 

4. Comfort: 

A good mouth guard should be comfortable enough so you won’t mind wearing it during games or practices, but it shouldn’t be too loose or too tight

What are the Benefits of Mouth Guards?

Mouth guards are a great way to help prevent tooth decay and other oral health problems. They can also help protect your teeth during sleep, which is when decay most often occurs. 

Here are some of the benefits of using mouthguards:

  1. Prevention of tooth decay. Mouth guards can help prevent tooth decay by keeping food and drink from going into your mouth where it can cause damage to your teeth.
  2. Protection during sleep. Mouth guards can also protect your teeth while you’re sleeping, which is when decay most often occurs. By wearing a mouth guard while you’re asleep, you’ll reduce the likelihood that you’ll experience any dental issues in the morning.
  3. Improved oral hygiene. Mouthguards can improve your overall oral hygiene because they make it easier to brush and floss your teeth properly. By using a mouth guard, you’ll also avoid having to go to the dentist as often because plaque and bacteria will be less likely to accumulate on your teeth.


How Do You Choose the Right Mouth Guard for You?

When it comes to choosing the right mouth guard for you, there are a few key factors to consider. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Your Size and Jaw Structure

The first thing you need to do is measure your jaw size and shape. This will help determine which type of mouthguard is best for you. There are three different types of mouth guards: full-face, half-face, and bite guards. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages based on your jaw shape and size.

2. Material and Design

Once you have determined which type of mouthguard fits your needs, the next step is to decide on the material and design. The main material options include plastic, silicone, and silicone rubber. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose one that will fit your lifestyle and dental needs. Some common designs include wraparound guards, mesh guards, adjustable straps, and soft shields.

3. Protection Against Injury

One of the most important factors when choosing a mouthguard is protection against injury. Make sure to choose one that will fit your sport or activity appropriately as some guards are designed for certain activities while others are not as protective. Also, be sure to read the reviews before purchasing a guard so you can find one with the best safety ratings possible.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Night Mouth Guard

When choosing a night mouthguard, there are several factors to consider. These include the type of sport you participate in, the type of mouth guard you choose, and your bite.

  • Type of Sport: Some sports require a night mouth guard because they are dangerous at night. Night football, for example, is more dangerous because players are more likely to get injured or cause accidents while it is dark. Other sports, such as hockey and soccer, can be played at any time of day or night without causing too much danger.
  • Type of Mouth Guard: There are two main types of night mouthguards: full-face and half-face. Full-face guards cover the entire upper lip and nose, whereas half-face guards only cover the front part of the lip and nose. The advantage of full-face guards is that they offer more protection against cuts and chipped teeth. The disadvantage is that they can be uncomfortable when worn for long periods of time due to heat buildup and restricted breathing. Half-face guards are less protective but easier to breathe in because air flows freely over the nose and lips.
  • Bite: Your bite affects how well a night mouth guard will fit. If your bite is wide or shallow, a full-face guard may not fit properly because it will be too large around your neck and chin area. A half-face guard might be a better option if your bite is narrow or deep because it will not cover as much area on your face

Conclusion

If you are a contact sport athlete or participate in martial arts, it is important to wear a night mouth guard to reduce the risk of dental injuries. A comprehensive study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that sports-related dental injuries were more common in males than females. This is likely due to differences in anatomy between men and women, which can make it difficult for women to protect their teeth properly when engaging in contact sports.

In order to choose the right night mouth guard for you, take into account your specific activity level, biting style, and jaw morphology. Additionally, be sure to try on different models so that you find one that fits comfortably and minimizes noise during chewing and speaking. If you have any questions about choosing the right night mouth guard for you, please do not hesitate to consult with a dentist or doctor.

 

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