Published in: Dental Health

Why you need to use a mouthguard at night time?

Is what happens while you sleep causing damage to your teeth? A custom-designed mouthguard could be the treatment solution you need to keep your smile happy and healthy!
At The Implant Centre, located in Surat, our team of experienced dental providers custom designs mouthguards to help treat different conditions like sleep apnea and teeth grinding.

Read on to learn about the many benefits of mouthguard!

Understanding Dental Night Guards and Their Benefits

1. Teeth Protection: Mouthguards act as a barrier, protecting your teeth from damage during physical activities or while sleeping.
   
2. Prevention of Dental Injuries: Mouthguards can prevent injuries such as chipped or broken teeth, tooth loss, and damage to soft tissues like the lips, tongue, and cheeks.
   
3. Reduced Risk of Concussions: In contact sports, mouthguards help absorb and distribute the impact forces, reducing the risk of concussions and other head injuries.
   
4. Prevention of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): For individuals who grind their teeth at night (bruxism), mouthguards can help cushion the teeth and reduce the risk of wear, fractures, and jaw pain.
   
5. Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Mouthguards can help alleviate symptoms associated with TMJ disorders by reducing pressure on the jaw joint and muscles.
   
6. Improved Sleep Quality: Custom-designed mouthguards for sleep apnea can help improve breathing and reduce snoring, leading to better sleep quality for both the wearer and their partner.
   
7. Long-Term Cost Savings: While custom mouthguards may have a higher upfront cost, they can prevent costly dental procedures to repair or replace damaged teeth in the long run.
   
8. Enhanced Athletic Performance: In sports, wearing a mouthguard can improve breathing and concentration, leading to enhanced athletic performance and focus.
   
9. Protection for Orthodontic Work: Mouthguards can provide added protection for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment by shielding braces or other dental appliances from damage during physical activities.

What is a Mouthguard?

A mouthguard is simply an oral appliance that you wear over your teeth. It’s sometimes called a snore guard when used to treat sleep apnea. At The Implant Centre, we custom design your mouth or snore guard to fit you perfectly. By taking an impression of your teeth using a dental mould, our design lab fabricates a guard that comfortably fits your mouth and teeth.

What Conditions Can a Mouthguard Treat?

Most people know mouthguards can protect your teeth during high-impact activities, but did you know they also help protect against conditions that arise while you sleep? Here’s a look at two conditions a mouthguard can treat: teeth grinding and sleep apnea.

Teeth Grinding
About one in three Indians experience teeth grinding, or bruxism. If you grind your teeth, you may not know you’re doing it since it most often happens while you’re sleeping. 

Some indications you may grind your teeth include:

1. – Chronic headaches
2. – Earaches
3. – A tight or sore face
4. – Neck pain
5. – Upper or lower jaw pain

Long-term effects of teeth grinding can be dangerous and include:

1. – Wearing teeth down to stumps
2. – Fracturing of teeth
3. – Loss or loosening of teeth
4. – Ongoing health problems in the jaw
5. – Changing the appearance of your face
6. – Causing or worsening TMJ disorders

People who grind their teeth while they sleep are also more likely to suffer from other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or snoring.
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Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common disorder affecting approximately 18 million Americans. It causes you to stop breathing for a period of time while asleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the muscles in your throat relax and close off your airway, leading to snoring and periods of time when you stop breathing while you sleep.

Central sleep apnea is less common and occurs when your brain fails to send the breathing signals to the muscles in your throat, causing you to stop breathing. Some people have both central and obstructive sleep apnea, which is called complex sleep apnea syndrome. 

If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to a number of serious complications, including:

1. – Fatigue
2. – Anxiety, depression, and ADHD
3. – Memory trouble
4. – Increased risk of auto and occupational accidents
5. – Obesity
6. – Diabetes
7. – Heart disease and hypertension
8. – Stroke

How Can a Mouthguard Help Teeth Grinding and Sleep Apnea?
Mouthguards work differently to treat both teeth grinding and sleep apnea. Here’s a closer look at how they work to prevent these common conditions from worsening.

How Guards Help Teeth Grinding
A mouthguard keeps your teeth separated when you’re asleep. You may still have the impulse to grind or clench your teeth; however, a mouthguard provides a softer surface for your teeth to grind against. As a result, the mouthguard reduces the damage teeth grinding causes to your teeth.

How Guards Help Sleep Apnea?
Custom-designed snore guards from The Implant Centre help treat sleep apnea by exerting force on your lower jaw. By pushing your jaw and tongue forward, the snore guard stops the muscles in your throat from closing. This allows you to breathe easier all night long.
And unlike bulky CPAP machines, the traditional treatment for sleep apnea, snore guards are more comfortable, easier to clean and store, and more convenient to take with you when you’re sleeping away from home.

How to Clean Your Dental Night Guard

Proper care and cleaning of your dental night guard are essential to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. Here are some tips to keep your mouthguard clean and in good condition:

1. Rinse Before and After Use: Always rinse your mouthguard with cold water before and after using it. This helps remove any debris and bacteria that may have accumulated.
2. Brush Your Guard: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently brush your mouthguard. This helps to remove any plaque and bacteria. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material.
3. Deep Clean Regularly: At least once a week, soak your mouthguard in a dental cleaner or a mixture of water and mouthwash. This helps to disinfect and deodorize the guard.
4. Store Properly: When not in use, store your mouthguard in a ventilated container. This allows it to dry completely and prevents the growth of bacteria.
   
5. Avoid Heat: Keep your mouthguard away from direct sunlight and hot water, as heat can deform the material.
   
6. Inspect Regularly: Check your mouthguard for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any cracks or deformities, contact The Implant Centre for a replacement.

By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your mouthguard remains effective and comfortable for a long time.

Can a Night Guard Hurt My Teeth?

While night guards are generally safe and beneficial for most people, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Improper Fit: A poorly fitting night guard can cause discomfort and may even exacerbate dental issues. It’s crucial to have a custom-fitted mouthguard made by a professional to ensure it fits your mouth perfectly.
2. Tooth Movement: In some cases, a night guard that doesn’t fit well can cause your teeth to shift. This is why it’s important to have a custom-designed guard that fits snugly and comfortably.
3. Gum Irritation: If the edges of the mouthguard are rough or sharp, they can irritate your gums. A properly made guard from The Implant Centre will have smooth edges to prevent this issue.
4. Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to the materials used in over-the-counter mouthguards. Custom guards are typically made from hypoallergenic materials to avoid this problem.
5. Increased Salivation: It’s common to experience increased salivation when you first start wearing a night guard. This usually subsides as your mouth adjusts to the appliance.

Despite these potential issues, the benefits of using a night guard far outweigh the risks for most people. Custom-designed guards from The Implant Centre are tailored to fit your mouth precisely, minimizing the chance of any adverse effects.

 Conclusion: Protect Your Smile with a Custom Mouthguard

In conclusion, a custom-designed mouthguard can be an effective solution for protecting your teeth from nighttime damage caused by teeth grinding and sleep apnea. By understanding the benefits of dental night guards, learning how to properly care for them, and being aware of potential risks, you can make an informed decision about your dental health.

Whether you’re dealing with bruxism, sleep apnea, or just want to protect your teeth from nightly wear and tear, a mouthguard could be the key to keeping your smile healthy and bright.
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 FAQs About Night Guards

Q: How long does it take to get used to wearing a night guard?

A: Most people adjust to wearing a night guard within a few nights to a couple of weeks. If you experience prolonged discomfort, consult your dentist for adjustments.

Q: Can I use an over-the-counter mouthguard instead of a custom one?

A: While over-the-counter mouthguards are available, they often don’t provide the same level of comfort and protection as a custom-fitted guard. It’s best to get a guard tailored to your specific dental needs.

Q: How often should I replace my night guard?

A: With proper care, a custom night guard can last several years. However, it’s important to regularly inspect it for signs of wear and consult your dentist for replacements as needed.

Q: Can children use night guards?

A: Yes, children who grind their teeth or have other dental issues can benefit from night guards. It’s essential to have a custom guard made to fit their growing mouths.

Q: What should I do if my night guard causes pain or discomfort?

A: If your night guard causes pain or discomfort, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can make necessary adjustments to ensure a better fit.

Take the first step towards better oral health and a brighter smile, Protect your teeth and improve your sleep quality. Consult us The Implant Centre doctors for more information.