An occlusal guard, also known as a night guard or bite splint, is worn over the teeth while sleeping. It helps to prevent grinding and clenching of teeth (bruxism).
Why Your Child Should Wear a Sports Mouthguard
A 2019 study found that athletes who wear mouthguards have a much lower risk of sports-related dental injuries (7.5% to 7.75%) compared to those who don’t wear them (48.31% to 59.98%). Wearing a mouthguard can reduce the chance of mouth and face injuries by 82% to 93%.
Wearing a sports mouthguard can prevent:
- Tooth fractures and chips: The mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, reducing the impact of blows to the face.
- Knocked-out teeth: Prevents teeth from being knocked out due to impact.
- Gum and soft tissue injuries: It provides a barrier between the teeth and cheeks, lips and tongue.
- Jaw fractures: A well-fitted mouthguard can also protect against jaw fractures by cushioning any blow to the chin or lower jaw.
Types of Sports Mouthguards
There are three types of sports mouthguards:
- Stock: These are pre-made and come in limited sizes. They offer the least protection and are generally bulky and uncomfortable.
- Boil-and-bite: These come in a pre-formed shape that can be customized by heating it in hot water and then placing it over the teeth to mold it.
- Custom-fitted: These are custom-made by your dentist based on an impression of your child’s teeth. They offer the best fit, comfort, and protection.
Custom vs Over-the-Counter Mouthguards
While over-the-counter mouthguards are readily available and may seem like a more affordable option, custom-fitted mouthguards offer many advantages:
- Better fit: Custom mouthguards are specifically made for your child’s teeth, ensuring a secure fit that won’t slip or fall out during activity.
- More comfortable: They are designed to fit the unique shape of your child’s mouth, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- Improved breathing and speech: A proper fit means your child can breathe and speak normally while wearing the mouthguard.
We do not recommend custom mouthguards for children that still have mixed dentition, meaning they haven’t lost all of their baby teeth. Over-the-counter guards are suitable if they have mixed dentition. As soon as all their permanent teeth come in, they can be fitted for a custom mouthguard.
Occlusal Guards
An occlusal guard may be recommended for your teen if they grind or clench their teeth while sleeping. This can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches.
Occlusal guards work by evenly distributing the pressure of grinding or clenching across the teeth, preventing damage to the enamel and reducing strain on the jaw muscles.
Sports Mouthguards vs Occlusal Guards
While both sports mouthguards and occlusal guards serve as protective devices for the teeth, they are designed for different purposes.
Purpose:
Sports mouthguards: Designed to protect the teeth and soft tissues of the mouth while playing sports. They absorb and distribute the force of impacts, reducing the risk of dental injuries like fractures, chips, and lacerations.
Occlusal guards: Worn at night to prevent damage caused by teeth grinding and clenching. They help distribute the pressure evenly across the teeth, reducing strain on the jaw muscles and preventing tooth wear.
Design and Fit:
Sports mouthguards: Bulkier as they need to provide cushioning for the teeth and surrounding soft tissues.
Occlusal guards: Thinner and made to fit snugly over the teeth. Custom occlusal guards are made to fit perfectly and distribute pressure evenly. They help prevent enamel damage and reduce strain on the jaw muscles.
Getting Fitted For a Custom Mouthguard
Getting fitted for a custom mouthguard is quick and easy! We use a play-doh-like substance called alginate to make an impression of your child’s teeth. The alginate is placed in a tray, which is then gently pressed against your child’s teeth. After a few minutes, the alginate sets and the tray is removed, capturing an accurate mold of the teeth.
We usually make the guards in-house, but there are times when we have to send the impressions to a lab. If that is the case, it can take 2–3 weeks to come back from the lab. If we make it in-house, the guards will be ready within a week.
Caring For Your Mouthguard
To ensure your child’s mouthguard stays in good condition, it is important to properly care for it. This includes:
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the mouthguard with a toothbrush and toothpaste or mild soap. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry before storing.
- Storage: Store the mouthguard in a well-ventilated container when not in use. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or hot temperatures as this can cause warping.
- Replace: Check the mouthguard regularly for signs of wear and tear. If it becomes damaged or worn out, replace it.
🔑Key Takeaway
Investing in a custom-fitted sports mouthguard or occlusal guard is essential for protecting your child’s teeth and oral health. They offer superior fit, comfort, and protection compared to over-the-counter options. Remember, prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to dental injuries!
FAQs About Mouthguards
Is a mouthguard only worn on the upper teeth?
Mouthguards are usually only worn on the upper teeth, but your dentist may recommend a lower mouthguard in certain situations. We will discuss your options with you at the time of consultation.
Can you use a sports mouthguard as a nightguard?
No, sports mouthguards are not designed for wearing while sleeping. They are made from a different material and are bulkier compared to nightguards. Wearing a sports mouthguard while sleeping can cause discomfort and interfere with breathing.
How often should I replace my child’s mouthguard?
Mouthguards should be replaced once a year or when they become damaged or worn out. It is important to regularly check the mouthguard for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, or an ill-fitting shape.
Can you still clench with a night guard?
The guard doesn’t stop you from clenching, but it does prevent your teeth from making contact and causing damage. It helps reduce tension in the jaw muscles by absorbing some of the pressure of clenching.
Can my child wear a mouthguard if they have braces?
Yes, it is especially important for children with braces to wear a mouthguard while playing sports! We can create a mouthguard that accommodates their braces and offers the necessary protection.