Is There a Difference Between a Sports Mouthguard and a Night Guard?

High Street Dentistry is proud to offer protective mouthguards to keep dental injuries at bay. Our custom sports mouthguards protect athletes when engaged in contact sports, while our high-quality night guards prevent injuries due to teeth grinding during sleep. Both types of oral appliances protect your smile. However, they do so in different ways. 

Sports Mouthguards Prevent Sports-Related Dental Injuries

Sports mouthguards are designed to prevent sports-related dental injuries that frequently occur due to accidental blows to the face. They reduce the risks of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, gums, and tongue. Studies show that athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer mouth injuries without wearing protective mouthguards. 

Night Guards Prevent Teeth Grinding During Sleep

Grinding your teeth in your sleep, a condition called bruxism, can wreak havoc on your health. Patients often experience morning headaches, jaw pain, tooth pain, and fractured or unevenly worn teeth. Wearing a night guard can alleviate this troublesome condition, preventing damage to your teeth and jaws and allowing you to enjoy restful, rejuvenating sleep. 

Types of Mouthguards

• Stock Mouthguards: These pre-made mouthguards come in different sizes and are ready to wear. However, they can be uncomfortable and do not provide a proper fit. 
• Boil and Bite Mouthguards: These customizable mouthguards are boiled and placed in your mouth, then molded to your teeth. Boil and bite mouthguards are better than their stock counterparts, but they can be uncomfortable and do not provide a perfect fit.
• Custom-Made Mouthguards: The best and most comfortable mouthguards are those custom-made for you. After taking impressions of your mouth, your trusted team at High Street Dentistry will create your mouthguard, ensuring the best fit and maximum protection. 

Sports Mouthguards vs. Night Guards

Sports mouthguards and night guards should never be worn interchangeably. Sports mouthguards are made of a thick, soft material that can absorb high-intensity impacts and shocks. They cover the teeth from their biting surfaces to below the gum line for maximum protection. Night guards, on the other hand, are made of a thin yet strong material that can withstand the grinding and clenching forces. They cover only the teeth to protect their chewing surfaces.

Protective Mouthguards Near Me

Visit High Street Dentistry in Jefferson City, MO, to learn more about our custom-made sports mouthguards and night guards. We are all about prevention to maintain long-term healthy smiles. Call us and schedule your appointment today!