Introduction
If you suffer from teeth grinding (bruxism), wearing a night guard is one of the best ways to protect your teeth from the damage associated with this condition. However, it’s important that your night guard fit properly in order for it to be effective. An improperly fitted night guard can cause pain and discomfort, as well as lead to further damage to your teeth. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of proper night guard fit and provide tips for finding a good fit.
Interview with a Dentist/Orthodontist
To get an expert opinion on the importance of proper night guard fit, we spoke with Dr. Robert Tabor, a dentist and orthodontist at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. Here’s what he had to say:
“When it comes to choosing a night guard, it’s important to make sure you get one that fits properly. A properly fitted night guard should feel comfortable in your mouth, and it should not interfere with your ability to speak or breathe. It should also stay in place while you sleep, without slipping or moving around. If your night guard is too tight, it can cause pain and discomfort, so it’s important to make sure it fits properly before using it.”
Symptoms of an Improper Fit
If your night guard does not fit properly, you may experience some of the following symptoms:
- Pain and discomfort
- Difficulty sleeping
- Teeth grinding
It’s important to note that if your night guard does not fit properly, it will not be effective in protecting your teeth from the effects of teeth grinding. Therefore, it’s important to make sure your night guard fits correctly before using it.
Types of Night Guards
There are several types of night guards available on the market today:
- Custom-fit guards: These are made specifically for your mouth, based on impressions taken by a dentist or orthodontist. They provide the most secure and comfortable fit, but they are also the most expensive option.
- Boil-and-bite guards: These are plastic guards that you heat in hot water and then bite into to form to your mouth. While these guards provide a better fit than stock guards, they are still not as secure as custom-fit guards.
- Stock guards: These are pre-made guards that come in a variety of sizes. They are the least expensive option, but they provide the least secure and comfortable fit.
No matter which type of night guard you choose, it’s important to make sure it fits properly before using it.
Step-by-Step Process for Testing a Night Guard’s Fit
Once you have selected a night guard, there is a step-by-step process you can follow to test its fit:
- Clean the night guard with warm water and mild soap.
- Place the night guard in your mouth and bite down gently.
- Adjust the night guard as needed to make sure it fits comfortably.
- Check the night guard’s fit by pressing your tongue against it and moving it around your mouth.
If the night guard does not feel comfortable, it is not a good fit. You may need to adjust it further or try a different size or type of night guard.
Importance of Proper Fit
Having a properly fitted night guard is important for several reasons. First, it helps protect your teeth from the damaging effects of teeth grinding. According to the American Dental Association, “Wearing a night guard can reduce the wear and tear on your teeth caused by bruxism.”
In addition, a properly fitted night guard can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with teeth grinding. A study published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation found that “a customized occlusal splint [night guard] was more effective than a prefabricated one in reducing muscle activity and pain during bruxism episodes.”
Tips from Experienced Users
We also spoke with several experienced users of night guards to get their tips for ensuring a good fit. Here’s what they had to say:
- Take the time to find a night guard that fits properly. Don’t settle for a guard that feels uncomfortable or slips around in your mouth.
- Make sure to clean your night guard regularly to keep it free of bacteria and debris.
- Avoid biting down too hard when testing the fit of your night guard, as this can cause it to become misshapen.
- If your night guard is too tight, try adjusting it or switching to a larger size.
- If your night guard is too loose, try boiling it again to make it fit more snugly.
Conclusion
Finding a night guard that fits properly is essential for protecting your teeth from the damaging effects of teeth grinding. A properly fitted night guard should feel comfortable in your mouth, and it should not interfere with your ability to speak or breathe. It’s important to take the time to find a night guard that fits correctly, and to clean it regularly to ensure a good fit. Finally, avoid biting down too hard when testing the fit of your night guard, as this can cause it to become misshapen. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to find a night guard that fits properly and helps protect your teeth from the damaging effects of teeth grinding.
(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)