Night Guard vs Mouth Guard: What Is the Difference?

What is the difference between a night guard and a mouth guard?

A night guard is a type of mouth guard made for sleep, to protect teeth from grinding and clenching. A sports mouth guard is a different type, made to cushion blows. Cleveland Clinic says mouth guards have many purposes, from teeth grinding to sleep apnea to sports-related injury.

So the real question is what you need it for. The American Dental Association (ADA) says night guards are not the same as sports guards. Each is designed for a different job.

What does a night guard do?

It puts a barrier between your upper and lower teeth. The ADA says your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. Cleveland Clinic says guards for grinding help protect your teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching, and may also reduce the effects of TMJ disorders.

Grinding is called bruxism. The ADA says most people are not aware that they clench or grind their teeth. Dentists and hygienists are often the first to notice, from chipped or cracked teeth or worn spots along tooth edges. Jaw pain, dull headaches and neck pain can also be clues.

What does a sports mouth guard do?

It cushions the face during a hit or fall. The ADA says mouthguards, also called mouth protectors, help cushion a blow to the face, and they minimize the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face or jaw. They are made for impact.

Because of that cushioning, the ADA says a sports mouth guard probably will not feel comfortable for sleep. Using the wrong type may mean you do not get the protection you need. Read our post on boil-and-bite mouth guards for the sports side.

Is a store-bought guard as good as a custom one?

Not usually. Cleveland Clinic says store-bought guards are cheaper but not as effective as custom-made mouth guards for protection against grinding or sports-related injuries. The ADA says night guards sold online and in stores may not provide the same protection as one made for you.

A custom guard is made from impressions of your teeth. The ADA says a custom guard gives the closest, most comfortable fit. Cleveland Clinic says a custom-made guard can last several years with proper care, while store-bought ones are less durable. Ask your dentist what fits your situation and budget. The office does not publish fees and gives each patient an estimate.

Who might need a night guard?

You might if you grind or clench. Cleveland Clinic lists grinding or clenching as a reason a dentist may recommend a mouth guard. The ADA says grinding is usually thought of as a symptom of stress, but it can also be caused by sleep disorders or teeth that do not line up properly.

Signs to mention to your dentist include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Dull headaches
• Neck pain
• Chipped, cracked or worn teeth

You do not have to diagnose yourself. A dentist can look at your teeth and bite, and talk with you about your symptoms.

What happens when I get a custom guard?

The process is simple. Cleveland Clinic says that if you need a custom mouth guard, a dentist will take dental impressions. The impressions go to a dental lab, where a technician makes a guard that fits your teeth. Cleveland Clinic says that in some cases this process can take up to two weeks.

At the fitting, your dentist checks the guard and makes any adjustments. Cleveland Clinic says that if you need one to treat grinding, snoring or sleep apnea, you will likely wear it every night while you sleep. Ask your dentist how often to wear yours and when to come back for a check.

Can a night guard fix the cause of grinding?

A guard protects teeth, but it does not by itself remove the cause. The ADA says paired with a night guard, healthy stress management can help protect your teeth and mouth. It lists meditation, counseling, exercise, massage and deep-breathing exercises as approaches shown to be effective. It also says that if you struggle to get enough rest at night, a sleep study can measure what is happening while you sleep.

That is why a talk with your dentist matters more than the guard alone. Your dentist can look at your teeth, your bite and your symptoms, and suggest whether to see your doctor too.

How do I care for a guard?

Clean it as your dentist advises and keep it in a case. Bring it to checkups. Cleveland Clinic advises bringing your mouth guard to dental checkups so your dentist can inspect it for cracks or other signs of wear. Cleveland Clinic also says to store your mouth guard out of reach of dogs and other pets.

What does Town Center Dental offer?

The practice lists night guards, sports guards and custom mouth guards as separate service pages, each with the practice’s own description. Our guide on teeth grinding and TMJ goes into more detail.

What should I ask my dentist about a night guard?

Bring a short list to your visit:

• Do my teeth show signs of grinding, such as chips, cracks or worn spots?
• Should the guard cover my upper teeth or my lower teeth?
• How often and how long should I wear it?
• How should I clean and store it?
• When should I come back so you can check the fit and look for wear?
• If I also play sports, do I need a separate sports guard?

A dentist can answer these for your own mouth. The answers differ from person to person, so ask rather than guess.

Next step

If you wake with a sore jaw or notice worn teeth, ask about a night guard. Read about night guards at Town Center Dental, then call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment.