A Guide to Choosing the Best Mouth Guard for Sleeping

Choosing the right mouth guard for sleeping is an important decision. A good night’s sleep is essential for our overall health and well-being, and having the right mouth guard can make all the difference.

In this guide, we will take you through a step-by-step process to help you choose the best mouth guard for your needs. We will discuss everything from the benefits of using a mouth guard for sleeping to different types of mouth guards and how to maintain them. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Understand the Benefits

Before we dive into choosing a specific mouth guard, it’s important to understand why you need one in the first place. Here are some key benefits of using a mouth guard for sleeping:

• Protection against teeth grinding and clenching: Teeth grinding or bruxism is a common condition that affects many people, especially during sleep. It can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and even damage your teeth. A mouth guard acts as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth to prevent damage caused by grinding.
• Alleviates snoring: Snoring can disrupt not only your sleep but also your partner’s. A mouth guard can help keep your airways open and reduce snoring.
• Reduces jaw pain: If you suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or jaw pain, a mouth guard can provide relief by preventing clenching and grinding of teeth.

Step 2: Know the Different Types of Mouth Guards

There are three main types of mouth guards available for sleeping: stock, boil and bite, and custom-fit. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

• Stock mouth guard: This type of mouth guard is pre-made and ready to use out of the box. They are usually inexpensive but may not provide the best fit as they come in limited sizes.
• Boil and bite mouth guard: This type of mouth guard is made from a thermoplastic material that softens in hot water. You then bite into it while it’s warm to create a custom fit for your teeth.
• Custom-fit mouth guard: These are the most expensive option but also offer the best fit as they are made specifically for your teeth by a dentist.

Step 3: Consider Comfort and Fit

When choosing a mouth guard, comfort and fit are crucial. A good mouth guard should stay in place all night without causing any discomfort or irritation to your gums, lips, or jaw. It should also be easy to breathe through and not interfere with your sleep.

If you opt for a stock or boil and bite mouth guard, make sure to choose the right size and follow the instructions carefully for a proper fit. If you have any existing dental issues or wear braces, it’s best to consult with a dentist for a custom-fit mouth guard.

Step 4: Think About Material and Durability

Mouth guards are typically made from three types of materials: thermoplastic, polyurethane, and acrylic. While each material has its own benefits, consider your specific needs before making a decision.

For example, if you grind your teeth heavily, a hard acrylic mouth guard may be more durable. If you have sensitive gums or teeth, a softer thermoplastic material may be more comfortable.

Step 5: Proper Maintenance

To ensure your mouth guard lasts, it’s important to maintain it properly. Rinse your mouth guard with cool water after each use and brush it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Soaking the mouth guard in a denture cleaner or diluted mouthwash can also help keep it clean.

Avoid using hot water to clean your mouth guard as it can cause warping, and never share your mouth guard with anyone else to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Hopefully this guide has helped you understand the importance of choosing the right mouth guard for sleeping and provided you with the necessary steps to make an informed decision. Remember, a good night’s sleep starts with a comfortable and properly fitting mouth guard. Sweet dreams!