Have you ever gotten out of bed with a painful jaw, painful teeth, or a headache and thought if you were grinding your teeth at night? In most cases, night guards are a good part of the solution to save the teeth from wear. There are multiple options available, such as custom-made and over-the-counter (OTC) products, and it is difficult to decide which one will be most suitable. Night guards in Burlington will help you make the proper decision if you first comprehend the differences.
What is the Main Difference Between Custom and OTC Night Guards?
The biggest difference between custom and over-the-counter night guards lies in the fit. A custom guard is fabricated by a dentist who takes moulds of your teeth, while OTC guards are made in advance and come in different standard sizes. This implies:
- A custom-made night guard fits perfectly and is designed specifically for your bite.
- An OTC night guard is typically large, and it may be difficult to keep it in place during the night.
- Usually, comfort and longevity are better with dental custom options.
Both kinds are designed to eliminate bruxism to the teeth, but the users of them can be very different.
Why Should You Consult a Dentist Before Choosing?
A dentist in Burlington will carry out the necessary tests on your teeth and jaw to determine the extent of the grinding and suggest the perfect night guard that you should use. If you are not guided by a professional, you could get a guard type that will not give you adequate protection and may even cause jaw discomfort. A dental professional can also keep track of your improvement and make changes to the treatment if required.
How Does a Dental Clinic Help with Night Guard Options?
If you go to the dental clinic near you, you will be assured that you are getting professional support along with the product and not just a device. Dentists can recognize the causes of wear in your teeth, suggest if it is necessary to have a guard, and explain the caretaking routine. This extra help usually makes sure that money is not lost on products that do not work.
What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Night Guards?
Just as with any dental treatment, both custom and OTC guards feature benefits and drawbacks.
- Positive aspects of custom night guards: optimal fitting, excellent resistance, and they can be used for a long time comfortably.
- Negative aspects: higher initial cost.
- Positive aspects of OTC night guards: they are cheap, can be bought without the help of a dentist, and you can start using them right away.
- Negative aspects: bad fitting, less comfort, and they may get destroyed quickly.
How are Night Guard Types Compared for Teeth Grinding?
Comparing night guard types means looking at their features as follows:
- Fit: Personalized guards are designed according to your teeth; non-customized guards are “one-size-fits-all.”
- Comfort: Slim, tailor-made guards do not irritate; OTC models might feel uncomfortable due to their size.
- Longevity: Custom guards may last you up to several years; OTC versions may need frequent replacements.
- Safety: Unique-style guards offer safety against grinding and jaw pain; OTC alternatives provide minimal safety.
Such a comparison facilitates deciding which night guard is the most effective in stopping teeth grinding that fulfills your requirements.
What are the Pros and Cons of Custom vs OTC Night Guards, Specifically?
Examining the differences between custom versus OTC night guards:
- A custom guard is a confidence booster as it ensures a safe fit and protection.
- An OTC guard might be a user-friendly option, but it can hardly help an intense grinding problem.
- If you are a heavy grinder, custom guards will be the most secure solution for you.
By doing so, you can save money and protect your teeth by weighing the pros and cons of night guards this way.
Which is the Best Night Guard for Teeth Grinding?
The most effective night guard for bruxism varies with the severity of grinding, comfort preferences, and price range. If the grinding is at a minor level, then an OTC solution could be a temporary fix. However, a custom night guard is the long-lasting one as it is fabricated based on your mouth and grinding patterns, hence most dental professionals endorse it.
Find Your Perfect Night Guard Today!
Absolutely, the best night guard will play a major role in giving your teeth the protection they deserve. Rather than figuring it out on your own, a professional will find the best way for you to get an easy and efficient solution. Booking a visit to Lakeside Family Dental and having the necessary teeth protection for your beautiful smile is indeed the healthiest choice to make!
