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Are you struggling with teeth grinding at night? Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or sensitive teeth? The secret to a restful night lies in choosing the best sleep mouth guard.
In this article, we will guide you through the top 5 best sleep mouth guards, discussing their features, benefits, and which one is best for your specific needs. Say goodbye to restless nights and hello to a healthier, happier smile!
Overview of Top Performing Sleep Mouth Guards
Finding the perfect sleep mouth guard can be a daunting task, but we’ve done the research to help you make an informed decision. Here’s a quick snapshot of the top-performing sleep mouth guards available in the market, including the best mouth guards for various needs:
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Best for Severe Grinders: Impact Mouth Guards (SAVE 10% with code: MOUTHGUARDSTORE)
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Best Thin Mouth Guard: Sparkling White Smiles
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Lowest Price: Oral-B Nighttime Dental Guard
These products vary in terms of design, material, and price, but each one is tailored to address specific needs and preferences. We’ll now explore each product in detail to assist you in finding the one that suits you best.
Impact Mouth Guards: Best For Severe Grinders
Price
$139
Check Price for Impact Mouth Guard
Specifications
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Material: Hard acrylic
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Custom fit
Pros
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Designed for severe teeth grinders
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Durable materials for long-lasting protection
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Self-equilibrating for a precise fit
Cons
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Higher price point compared to other options
As a severe teeth grinder myself, I found that the Impact Mouth Guards provided maximum protection and durability while maintaining comfort. The guard is made from a two-shot thermo material and is manufactured with hypoallergenic BPA-free dental-grade materials, ensuring safety and comfort.
The hard acrylic construction creates a rigid barrier between my upper and lower teeth, effectively preventing teeth from grinding against each other and reducing the impact and damage caused by severe grinding.
I was impressed by the longevity of the Impact Mouth Guards, lasting for approximately three months before needing replacement. While it is a bit more expensive than other options on the market, the quality and effectiveness of this mouth guard make it well worth the investment for severe teeth grinders like me.
Sparkling White Smiles: Best Thin Mouth Guard
Price
$119.99
Check Price for Sparkling White
Specifications
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Material: Robust laminate material
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Thickness: 3mm
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Custom-made
Pros
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Thin and comfortable design
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Cross-graining for extra strength and durability
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Suitable for sleep apnea sufferers
Cons
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May not be suitable for heavy grinders
As someone who prefers a less bulky solution for teeth grinding protection, I found the Sparkling White Smiles mouth guard to be the perfect fit. This thin and comfortable mouth guard is crafted from a robust laminate material and features cross-graining for extra strength, constant thickness, and abrasion resistance.
As a sleep apnea sufferer, I appreciated the 3mm thickness that allowed me to position my lower jaw forward, reducing the risk of airway obstruction during sleep.
The custom-made design offers a perfect fit, and the soft, flexible, cross-grained medical-grade plastic ensures both comfort and protection. Although it may not be suitable for heavy grinders, the Sparkling White Smiles custom fitted night guards are an excellent choice for those who want a thin and comfortable custom mouth guard for a good night’s sleep.
Oral-B Nighttime Dental Guard: Lowest Price
Price
$19.48
Specifications
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Thin and streamlined design
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Mint flavor burst feature
Pros
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Affordable
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Comfortable to wear
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Pleasant minty taste
Cons
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Mixed reviews on fit and comfort
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Non-custom fit
As someone who’s always on the lookout for budget-friendly options, I found the Oral-B Nighttime Dental Guard to be the best night guard that provided teeth grinding protection and helped me achieve a good night’s sleep. The thin and streamlined design allowed me to breathe and speak comfortably while wearing it.
Additionally, I enjoyed the “flavor burst” feature that released a pleasant minty taste. For those in need of a more personalized fit, a custom night guard might be a suitable alternative.
However, the fit of the Oral-B Nighttime Dental Guard received mixed reviews from customers, with some noting a decent fit while others encountered a loose fit and tightness on their teeth. Despite these varying experiences, I found the Oral-B Nighttime Dental Guard to be a cost-effective option for those seeking a basic level of teeth grinding protection, as an alternative to custom night guards.
Guide to Choosing Your Ideal Sleep Mouth Guard
Having discussed the top sleep mouth guards, gaining an understanding of teeth grinding, its causes and effects, the variety of mouth guards, custom vs. non-custom options, and proper mouth guard care is pivotal.
In the subsequent sections, we’ll further explore these important considerations to assist you in making the most suitable choice for your needs.
Understanding Teeth Grinding and Its Impact
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition where an individual grinds or clenches their teeth involuntarily, usually during sleep. Common causes of nighttime teeth grinding include:
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Stress
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Anxiety
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Certain neurological conditions
Bruxism can be dangerous if not treated. It may lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or even more serious health consequences.
Patients with bruxism may experience symptoms such as jaw pain, dull headaches, painful or loose teeth, and fractured teeth. Beyond the discomfort and pain, neglecting teeth grinding can result in serious oral issues like enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and an increased risk of cavities.
Preventing these outcomes requires taking measures to shield your teeth, including your front teeth, from the damage caused by grinding and clenching. One such measure is wearing a mouth guard, which serves as a protective layer between your upper or lower teeth, providing cushioning and preventing contact between your upper and lower teeth.
Types of Sleep Mouth Guards: Which One is for You?
Sleep mouth guards are available in three primary types, each with unique features:
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One-Size-Fits-All Mouth Guards (worst):
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Pre-made, no modification needed
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Most affordable
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Generally less comfortable and protective
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Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards (decent):
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Made from thermoplastic material
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Softens with heat for a custom fit
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Inexpensive and easy to find
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Mail-In Custom Mouth Guards (best):
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Requires a dental impression
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Custom-made for a precise fit
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Offers better protection, but more costly
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Consider your budget, comfort, and teeth grinding severity when selecting a sleep mouth guard.
Custom vs. Non-Custom Mouth Guards
Custom mouth guards are made to an individual’s specifications and typically require fabrication by a dental professional. They provide a secure fit, protection from teeth grinding, and can address the underlying cause of the issue. However, custom mouth guards may require replacement over time, can be uncomfortable if the fit is not precise, and may not address the underlying cause of the issue.
Non-custom mouth guards are ready-made and available for purchase without a prescription. They offer numerous advantages, including:
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Protecting teeth
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Relieving jaw tension
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Preventing headaches
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Providing convenience and affordability
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Encouraging better sleep
On the downside, non-custom mouth guards may cause discomfort, provide an inadequate fit, and not offer the same level of protection as a custom-made guard.
When deciding between custom and non-custom mouth guards, consider your budget, comfort preferences, and the level of protection you require.
Caring for Your Sleep Mouth Guard
Correct care and maintenance are critical to prolonging the life and effectiveness of your sleep mouth guard. Adhering to the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, which include daily rinsing and gentle brushing of the device, is of utmost importance. Furthermore, ensure the mouth guard is dry before you store it.
For more thorough cleanings, you can use a non-abrasive denture cleaner, mouthwash, or hydrogen peroxide. When cleaning your mouth guard, avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, hot water, alcohol-based mouthwash or cleaners, and make sure to rinse thoroughly before storing it in a clean case.
A sleep mouth guard should be replaced every 12 to 24 months for optimal efficacy. Correct maintenance of your mouth guard guarantees its efficacy in safeguarding your teeth against the harmful impact of grinding and clenching.
Summary
In conclusion, finding the right sleep mouth guard is essential for protecting your teeth and ensuring a good night’s sleep. By understanding the causes and effects of teeth grinding, exploring the different types of mouth guards available, and considering custom vs. non-custom options, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Remember to properly care for your sleep mouth guard to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. With the right mouth guard, you can finally enjoy a restful night and protect your teeth from the damage caused by grinding and clenching. Sweet dreams!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of night guard is best for clenching?
An anterior bite guard is the best option for jaw clenching, as it prevents contact between posterior teeth and provides efficient relief from acute pain due to jaw injury.
Does a mouth guard help you sleep better?
Wearing a custom dental night guard has been reported to allow jaw muscles to relax, leading to more restful sleep. Consequently, mouth guards may help you sleep better.
Is top or bottom night guard better for bruxism?
Overall, a lower night guard is the better choice for bruxism sufferers. It is less noticeable, and people generally find it more comfortable than upper guards. Additionally, it is less likely to trigger a gag reflex. For best results, make sure to get a night guard that is custom-fitted for your mouth.
What causes teeth grinding?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is often caused by stress and anxiety, as well as certain medical conditions.
How do I know if I need a sleep mouth guard?
If you experience jaw soreness, headaches, painful or loose teeth, and fractured teeth, it may be a sign that you need to use a sleep mouth guard.