Bite Splint vs Night Guard: Which One Is Right for You?

 Have you ever woken up with a sore jaw, a headache, or even chipped teeth? If so, you're not alone. Many people deal with issues like teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching, often without even knowing it. The good news is there are solutions! 

Two common dental devices designed to protect your teeth are bite splints and night guards. But what's the difference, and how do you know which one is the right fit for you? 

Let's break it down in very easy language.

Introduction

Teeth grinding and clenching are more than just annoying habits; they can cause serious damage to your teeth, jaw joints, and muscles. Over time, this can lead to chipped or cracked teeth, worn-down enamel, and even chronic pain. 

Thankfully, dentists have been using special mouthpieces for years to protect patients' smiles. While the terms “bite splint” and “night guard” are sometimes used interchangeably, they are actually different, with unique purposes and benefits. Understanding these differences is the first step to getting the relief you need.

What Is a Bite Splint?

Imagine a custom-made, sturdy shield for your teeth. That's essentially what a bite splint is. A bite splint is a hard, rigid dental device, usually made from a strong acrylic. It's custom-fitted by your dentist to cover all the teeth on either your upper or lower jaw.

The primary goal of a bite splint is to reposition your jaw into a more relaxed and comfortable position. This helps to take pressure off your jaw joints (the temporomandibular joints, or TMJ) and the muscles that control chewing. By doing this, a bite splint doesn't just protect your teeth from grinding; it addresses the underlying cause of jaw pain and dysfunction. It can support the jaw in reaching a more relaxed position.

Because a bite splint can be used to help manage more complex issues like TMJ disorders, it is a very specific, carefully crafted appliance. It's often worn at night, but in some cases, a dentist might recommend wearing it during the day as well, especially if you clench your teeth when you're stressed.

What Is a Night Guard?

Now, let's look at the night guard. Think of this as a protective cushion for your teeth. A night guard is a dental appliance worn over your teeth, usually at night, to create a physical barrier between your upper and lower teeth.

Night guards are primarily used to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding and clenching. When you wear a night guard, you can still clench or grind, but instead of your teeth grinding against each other, they grind against the softer material of the guard. This prevents wear and tear on your tooth enamel and can also help to reduce jaw muscle strain.

Night guards come in a few different types:

  • Custom-made: These are generally comfortable and precise than over-the-counter options. The dentist takes an impression of your teeth, and a dental lab creates a perfect-fitting guard. They are comfortable, durable, and offer the most protection.
  • Boil-and-bite: You can buy these at a chemist's or sporting goods store. You soften the guard in hot water and then bite into it to get a semi-custom fit. They offer decent protection but are not as precise or comfortable as a custom guard.
  • Stock: These are pre-formed and ready to wear. They are the least expensive but also the least comfortable and effective. They can be bulky and may not stay in place well.

For the purposes of comparing it to a bite splint, we are mainly talking about the custom-made variety, as it's the one your dentist would most likely recommend.

Key Differences Between Bite Splints and Night Guards

While both devices are worn in your mouth to protect your teeth, their main functions are different. Here's a simple breakdown of the key differences:

Feature Bite Splint Night Guard
Primary Purpose To reposition the jaw and treat TMJ disorders. To protect teeth from grinding and clenching.
Material Usually hard, rigid acrylic. Can be hard, soft, or a combination of both.
Fit Very precise and designed to change jaw alignment. Designed to create a protective barrier.
Treatment Goal To treat the underlying cause of jaw pain and muscle tension. To prevent tooth damage from bruxism.
Cost Generally, more expensive due to the complex custom design. Varies, but custom-made ones are a significant investment.

Think of it this way: A night guard is like a helmet for your teeth—it protects them from impact. A bite splint is like a back brace for your jaw—it helps to correct and support its proper alignment.

When to Use a Bite Splint

A bite splint is typically recommended when a dentist suspects that your jaw pain, headaches, or clenching are related to a more significant issue with your jaw joint or muscles. Here are some of the signs that a bite splint might be right for you:

  • Diagnosed with a TMJ disorder: If you have been diagnosed with temporomandibular joint dysfunction, a bite splint may be recommended to help manage certain jaw-related concerns.
  • Chronic jaw pain: If your jaw is constantly sore, stiff, or achy, a bite splint can help by taking pressure off the joint.
  • Clicking or popping jaw: Sounds when you open or close your mouth can be a sign of a problem with your jaw joint, which a bite splint can help to correct.
  • Severe headaches: Headaches, especially those that feel like they're originating from your temples or jaw, can be a symptom of TMJ issues.
  • You've tried a night guard and it didn't help: If a night guard has not relieved your symptoms, the dentist, like a dentist in High Street, may suggest a bite splint to address the root cause of the problem.

When to Use a Night Guard

A night guard is the go-to solution for people who primarily need protection for their teeth. You might need a night guard if:

  • You've been told you grind your teeth at night: A partner or housemate might have heard you grinding your teeth while you sleep.
  • You wake up with a sore jaw or teeth: This is a classic sign of nocturnal bruxism.
  • Your dentist has noticed signs of wear and tear: Your dentist might see flat or worn-down chewing surfaces, chipped enamel, or small cracks in your teeth during a routine check-up.
  • You have sensitive teeth for no apparent reason: Grinding can wear down enamel, exposing the sensitive layers underneath.
  • You experience mild to moderate clenching: If you know you clench your jaw during the day or night, a night guard can prevent the damage this causes.

Choosing the Right Option for You

So, which one should you choose? The most important thing to remember is that this is not a decision to make on your own. Both a bite splint and a custom-made night guard require a professional diagnosis and fitting from a dentist.

If you live in a place like Launceston and are experiencing any of the symptoms we've discussed, a visit to a trusted dentist is the first step. A dentist Launceston, like DDTA Dental, or a dentist in High Street, for example, will be able to examine your mouth, check your jaw joints, and discuss your symptoms. We will then recommend the best solution based on your specific needs.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. You can ask about the materials used, the fitting process, how long you'll need to wear the device, and the expected cost. A good dentist will explain everything clearly, so you feel confident in your treatment plan.

Conclusion

While both bite splints and night guards are valuable tools in dentistry, they serve different purposes. A night guard is an excellent protective device for individuals who grind their teeth, helping to reduce tooth wear caused by grinding. A bite splint, on the other hand, is a therapeutic device designed to treat the more complex issues of the jaw joint and its surrounding muscles.

By understanding the difference between the two, you're better equipped to have a conversation with your dentist. Getting the right device may help reduce discomfort, improve your quality of life, and ensure you wake up feeling refreshed, not sore.

Experiencing Signs of Teeth Grinding?

If you're dealing with jaw pain, headaches, or suspect you're grinding your teeth, don't wait for the problem to get worse. It's time to take action. 

Our dentist at DDTA Dental can examine your teeth and discuss whether a night guard or bite splint may be suitable for you.”

FAQs

Q: Can I just buy a night guard at the chemist instead of seeing a dentist? 

A: While over-the-counter night guards are available, they are not custom-fitted and may not provide the same level of fit or comfort as a custom-made device.. They can sometimes even make a problem worse if they don't fit correctly. The dentist can assess whether a custom-made appliance may be more suitable for your needs.

Q: Will wearing a bite splint or night guard fix my problem forever? 

A: A bite splint or night guard can be a long-term solution, but it's essential to follow your dentist's instructions and wear the device as recommended. Some people may need to wear it for a few months, while others might need it for a lifetime to manage their symptoms.

Q: How do I clean my bite splint or night guard? 

A: The dentist will give you specific cleaning instructions. Generally, you should clean it daily with a soft toothbrush and cool water. You can also use special cleaning tablets designed for dental appliances. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic.

Source: Bite Splint vs Night Guard: Which One Is Right for You?

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