Is There A Difference Between A Mouthguard And A Nightguard?

26 September 2019
 Categories: Dentist, Blog


Many people believe that mouthguards and nightguards are the same things, and while they are similar, they are not the same. Each of these is designed for a different purpose, yet both are very important devices that are used to protect the teeth. Here are several things to understand about the uses of mouthguards and nightguards, as well as the key differences between them.

The purpose of a mouthguard

The main purpose a mouthguard serves is to protect teeth during some type of activity that could lead to injuries to the teeth. Football is a prime example of an activity where the players are required to wear mouthguards. People who perform boxing also wear these, and other types of athletes may also, such as soccer players, baseball players, or hockey players. When people take part in any type of rough activity, wearing a mouthguard provides teeth with the protection they need. If a person wearing a mouthguard encounters trauma to the mouth, the person will have a much lower chance of experiencing an injury to the teeth.

The purpose of a nightguard

A nightguard may look similar to a mouthguard, but its purpose is entirely different. A nightguard is designed to do one of several things. The first thing nightguards are used for is to protect teeth against the damaging effects caused by grinding. If a person grinds their teeth every night, this habit could lead to damage to the teeth. Wearing a nightguard helps reduce the risks of this. Secondly, people wear nightguards to help them control their snoring or sleep apnea. Wearing a certain type of nightguard will help a person breathe easier while sleeping, and this is why they are often recommended for people who suffer from sleep apnea or severe snoring.

How to get the right type of guard

If you need either type of device for your mouth, you could either buy one from the store that you can mold yourself, or you could visit a dentist. Visiting a dentist to get one is the better option, as a dentist will help you select the right type for you and will create a custom-made one that fits your mouth perfectly. If you feel that you need one of these, contact a dental clinic to learn more about the options available and the costs for the type that would offer the most benefits for you.

For more information, contact your local dentist.


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