Mouthguards and Nightguards

Nightguards are mouthpieces custom made by your dentist for a variety of purposes. The most common purpose is to treat patients that grind, or clench their teeth at night. This can cause damage to the teeth, and the joint, known as the "TMJ," or Temporomandibular joint. People who clench or grind can cause severe wear to their teeth as well as damage to the joint resulting in "clicking," or "popping" upon opening and closing the mouth, or chewing. The nightguard is custom made to fit either the top or bottom jaw, and is typically worn at night when people tend to grind or clench subconsciously, and protects the teeth and joint from damage. This is often a result of stress. Soft nightguards are usually made for people that clench or grind but don't have clicking or popping of the joint, where hard nightguards are usually made when there is a joint problem resulting in clicking and popping.

 Mouthguards are fabricated for protection for patients active in sports where there is a likelihood of injury to the face, and possibly the teeth. These would include boxing, and hockey, for example. These appliances are usually thicker than nightguards, and can be made in a variety or combination of colors, if desired. Nightguards are generally clear.

 Anti-snoring devices are gaining in popularity and are fabricated in a similar way to mouthguards and nightguards. Upper and lower mouthpieces that connect together are fabricated to be worn at night; the position of the jaw is dictated by the appliance, moving the lower jaw forward to create unrestricted airflow when sleeping, and stopping snoring.

If you are suffering with any of these issues a mouthguard or nightguard may be for you. Call Dr. Scott Meltzer to receive a free consultation at 732-367-0202.