Discover Everything You Need to Know About Night Guard for Braces

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If you grind your teeth with braces, your orthodontist may suggest wearing a night guard to prevent further damage.

Night guard for braces can improve sleep quality and alleviate pain in the mouth area.

If you're considering a dental night guard for braces, it's essential to read through the following sections of this blog to gather more information.

To begin, let's discuss the introduction of the night guard.

What is a night guard?

A night guard for braces is a dental appliance that protects your teeth from wear and tear from shifting and grinding (bruxism) during sleep. Night guards with braces are comprised of dental-grade TPU and PETG materials. It can ease

Night guards resemble the mouthguards you may have seen worn by the players. Sports mouth guards with braces can absorb shock while stabilising the jaw during physical activity.

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What is bruxism?

It is the medical term used for clenching, or grinding of one's teeth, typically during sleep. Anxiety, stress and tension are the contributing factors, that cause bruxism. People suffering from bruxism have the sleep disorders like sleep apnea and snoring.

Besides sleep disruption, bruxism can also cause tooth pain, face pain, tooth damage, tooth sensitivity and pain in jaw muscles.

Malocclusion can also cause bruxism. To treat the same, you need dental braces. Once you have dental braces on your teeth, you need to prevent grinding or clenching of your teeth to allow your braces to function correctly. Night guards will work as the bite guard for braces.

Why are night guard braces necessary while wearing braces?

Prevents plaque development- Night mouthguard for the braces can prevent plaque development as it has holes to allow saliva to access your teeth. Hence, saliva can neutralise the acids and washes the food particles that cause cavities.
Prevents bite changing- Night guard with braces are designed to protect the teeth surfaces from grinding each other. Therefore, it will shift your tooth position over time, preventing the bite from changing too.
Prevents severe headaches- The tensed shoulders, necks, jaw and mouth muscles cause headaches. A custom-made night guard with braces for your teeth can eliminate the headaches as the muscles will no longer be tensed.
Prevents TMD disorder- Once you clench your teeth during sleeping, it applies pressure into the TMD or temporomandibular. It can cause misalignment, which can develop TMJ dysfunction. Wearing the night guard with braces can prevent the disorder as it eases muscle tension.

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Types of night guards

Dental guards for braces are classified as custom-fit night guards and over-the-counter night guards. Custom-fit night guards can provide the customised solution as they are made per your mouth’s impression using professional materials and techniques.

On the contrary, over-the-counter nightguards are available at reasonable prices at various dental clinics.

Based on the type of material, night dental guards can be categorised into three types-

Hard night guards- It is comprised of acrylic materials. Orthodontists recommend this type of night guard who grinds their teeth often. It is durable and prevents teeth shifting too.
Soft night guards- These are made of rubbery materials along with flexible substances like soft plastic. It is recommended for light or moderate grinders. It is more flexible than other types of bite guards for braces.
Dual laminated night guards- These combine hard and soft night guards. The outer surface of this night guard consists of harder acrylic, whereas the inner surface is soft. It can easily withstand the heavy grinding force.

Best night guard for teeth grinding with braces

When looking for the best night guard for teeth grinding (bruxism) while you have braces, it's essential to find a product that accommodates the orthodontic appliances and provides effective protection for your teeth and braces. Here are a few options to consider:

Custom-Fitted Night Guards: The most effective night guards are often custom-made by a dentist or orthodontist. They are tailored to fit your mouth precisely, taking into account your braces. While they are more expensive than over-the-counter options, they offer the best comfort and protection.
Boil and Bite Night Guards: These are available over the counter at most drugstores. You can soften them in hot water, then bite down to create a somewhat custom fit. They can work well for some people with braces.
Double-Arch Night Guards: These night guards are designed specifically for those with braces. They cover both the upper and lower teeth, providing protection for both and reducing the risk of damaging the braces.
Silicone Night Guards: These are often more comfortable than hard plastic guards. They can be a good option for people with braces, as they can adapt to the shape of your teeth and braces.
Custom Clear Aligner Trays: If you're using Invisalign or another clear aligner system, you may be able to use your aligner trays as night guards. This dual-purpose approach can be convenient, but you should consult with your orthodontist to ensure it won't affect your treatment plan.
Orthodontic Wax: While not a night guard, orthodontic wax can be used to protect your mouth from irritation caused by braces. It won't prevent teeth grinding but can offer some relief if your braces are causing discomfort.

Benefits of night guard with braces

Long term benefits of using a nightguard for braces.

Improves sleep quality- Clenching your teeth at night can affect sound sleep. Wearing an orthodontic night guard will prevent grinding or clenching of the teeth. Hence, it will help you to get restful sleep.
Prevents snoring- Teeth clenching creates a breathing barrier properly by narrowing the airway. Therefore, it can cause snoring. Wearing a night guard will keep the top and bottom jaw separated. Thus, your airway will open and you can sleep better.
Alleviates jaw pain- People with bruxism may experience frequent headaches as the part of their head stays under pressure at night. Using a dental night guard for braces can prevent the headaches by reducing the clenching habit.
Prevents teeth damage- Clenching your teeth can lead towards permanent cracking or chipping of your teeth. A night guard can help by stopping the damage.

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Few things you need to know while using a night guard for braces

Your orthodontist will fit the night guard to your braces
As the guard is remoldable, you can refit the same during your orthodontic appointment.
You can insert the night guard while performing any physical activity.
Remove your guards carefully around the braces. It will help you to avoid any complications.

What is the cost of a dental night guard for braces in Dubai?

The average cost of night guards can be around AED 1500. However, it may vary based on your insurance coverage, clinic costs, the skill of your orthodontist and the proffered type of night guard.

Talk to our orthodontist today

You should not ignore bruxism. It won’t go away on its own. So, if you are experiencing bruxism, schedule your appointment with us. Our orthodontist will recommend the proper steps.

Faqs - Night Guard for Braces

Can you wear a night guard with braces?

Yes, you can wear a night guard with braces. In fact, wearing a night guard is often recommended, especially if you have braces. Braces can sometimes cause discomfort, and the presence of brackets and wires can make your teeth more vulnerable to damage from teeth grinding or clenching, a condition known as bruxism. A night guard provides a protective barrier, preventing your braces from harming your teeth, reducing the risk of wear and discomfort, and promoting better oral health during your orthodontic treatment. Consult with your orthodontist or dentist to ensure that your night guard is appropriately designed to work with your braces.

How to stop clenching your teeth with braces?

To stop clenching your teeth with braces, it's important to be mindful of the habit and take steps to address it. First, try to increase awareness of when you clench your teeth by paying attention to any stressful or anxious situations that trigger it. Once you identify the triggers, practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Additionally, consider using a night guard or dental splint, which can help protect your teeth and reduce the impact of clenching, especially during sleep. Regular check-ups with your orthodontist or dentist are also crucial, as they can provide guidance on how to best manage clenching while wearing braces and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.