Nightguards, or occlusal splints, are often used to help patients who clench and/or grind their teeth during sleep. It can be made to fit the upper teeth or the lower teeth, and can be hard, soft or a combination of both. This alone is not a cure for clenching and grinding, but what it does do is provide protection for the teeth from wearing down. As such, if the source of the clenching and grinding is not addressed, often these nightguards will need to be replaced due to wear over time.
Sports mouthguards are critical for any athlete. Dental trauma can be quite severe, with the worst cases resulting in lost teeth. Mouthguards provide protection not only from direct impact, but from indirect contact as well (ie. struck under the chin). Store bought boil-and-bite types are the most cost-efficient but due to their one size fits all nature, it does not offer the greatest protection because of their poor fit. Custom made ones by your dentist provide far better protection as they fit snugly around each tooth to offer maximum protection.
© Dr. E. Y. Choi Dental Office, 2020. All Rights Reserved. Information presented on this site is intended for educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation and diagnosis by a dentist. Please see your local dentist to get the appropriate diagnosis and management solution for your particular needs.
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