Bite Splint vs Night Guard: Which Option Fits Best?

 Do you wake up with a sore jaw, a headache, or even chipped teeth? If so, you might be one of the many people who grind or clench their teeth at night. This common condition, known as bruxism, can cause a lot of problems. Fortunately, there are options available to help manage this condition.

Two of the most common treatments for teeth grinding are bite splints and night guards. While they might seem similar, they are actually quite different and serve different purposes. In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know to understand the differences, allowing you to discuss the best option with the dentist.

What is a Bite Splint?

Think of a bite splint as a custom-made, therapeutic device. It’s not just about protecting your teeth; it’s about treating a larger problem with your jaw joint and muscles. A bite splint is a more rigid, durable device, usually made from hard acrylic. It’s designed to change the way your upper and lower teeth meet.

The main goal of a bite splint is to reposition your jaw and relax the muscles that have become overworked from clenching and grinding. This action helps to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with conditions like TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders) or TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) issues. 

A dentist precisely crafts a bite splint after taking a detailed impression of your mouth, ensuring it fits comfortably.

What is a Night Guard?

A night guard, on the other hand, is primarily a protective shield for your teeth. Its main job is to create a physical barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This prevents the damaging effects of grinding, like worn enamel, chips, and cracks.

Night guards can be made from different materials, ranging from soft, flexible plastic to a more rigid acrylic. You can get a “boil-and-bite” night guard from a chemist, which you heat up in water and then bite into to shape it to your teeth. However, a custom-fitted night guard from the dentist will always offer a better and more comfortable fit. The purpose of a night guard is simply to protect your teeth from the friction and force of grinding.

Differences Between Bite Splints and Night Guards

While both devices are worn in the mouth, their function and designs are quite different.

  • Purpose: A night guard is for protection. A bite splint is for treatment. The night guard is a shield against the damage of grinding, while the bite splint is a therapeutic tool to correct jaw alignment and muscle issues.

  • Material and Rigidity: Night guards can be soft or hard, but bite splints are almost always made from a hard, rigid acrylic. This is because the rigid material is needed to reposition the jaw properly.

  • Fit and Design: Both can be custom-made, but a bite splint requires a more precise and detailed fitting process. A dentist will carefully design it to change the way your jaw closes, a process that is much more complex than simply creating a barrier.

  • Cost: Because of the detailed design and custom fit, a bite splint is generally more expensive than a night guard. The materials and time needed to create a bite splint are more extensive than expected.

Benefits of Using a Bite Splint

A bite splint offers a range of benefits, especially if you have more than just simple teeth grinding.

  • Reduce Jaw Pain: By repositioning the jaw, a bite splint takes the pressure off your jaw joint (TMJ) and allows the surrounding muscles to relax. This can provide significant relief from jaw pain, clicking, and popping.

  • Reduces Headaches and Neck Pain: Many people don’t realise that their headaches and neck pain are linked to jaw clenching. A bite splint can help reduce these symptoms by easing the tension in your jaw and neck muscles.

  • Addresses the Root Cause: Instead of just protecting your teeth, a bite splint works to fix the underlying problem of jaw misalignment or muscle strain.

  • Prevents Further Damage: While it’s a treatment device, it still provides excellent protection for your teeth against the damaging effects of grinding.

Benefits of Using a Night Guard

If your primary issue is teeth grinding without significant jaw pain, a night guard might be the perfect solution.

  • Protects Teeth: This is the main benefit. A night guard prevents your teeth from wearing down, cracking, or chipping due to the pressure of grinding.

  • Affordable Option: Generally, a night guard, especially a custom-made one, is less expensive than a bite splint.

  • Easy to Use: Once you get used to wearing it, a night guard is a simple and effective way to protect your smile.

  • Can Be a First Step: If you’re unsure whether you have a serious TMJ issue, a night guard can be a good starting point to see if it helps with your symptoms. If it doesn’t, you can then consider a bite splint.

How to Know Which Option is Right for You

This is where a visit to the dentist comes in. Self-diagnosing is not recommended. A dentist, like a trusted professional at a dentist Pennant Hills clinic, can properly assess your symptoms and recommend the best course of action.

  • Consider a Night Guard if:

    • Your main problem is worn-down teeth, chips, or cracks.

    • You don’t have significant jaw pain, clicking, or locking.

    • You are looking for a more affordable and straightforward solution.

  • Consider a Bite Splint if:

    • You have persistent jaw pain, headaches, or muscle soreness.

    • You hear clicking or popping sounds in your jaw.

    • Your jaw feels tired or stiff, especially in the morning.

    • You have been diagnosed with a TMD or a TMJ issue.

Remember, a dentist can perform a physical examination of your jaw and ask about your symptoms to make the right recommendation.

Cost and Insurance Considerations

The cost of a night guard or a bite splint can vary widely. A custom-made night guard from a dentist is usually a few hundred dollars, while a boil-and-bite one from the chemist is much cheaper. A bite splint, due to its complexity, can be more expensive.

It’s always a good idea to check with your private health insurance to see if they cover these devices. The coverage can depend on the type of device and your specific plan.

Tips for Proper Use and Maintenance

Once you have your device, proper care is crucial for its longevity and your oral health.

  • Clean It Daily: Brush your splint or guard with a toothbrush and cool water after each use. You can also use a non-abrasive soap. Avoid toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and scratch the surface.

  • Soak It: You can soak your device in a special denture or retainer cleaner solution a few times a week to keep it fresh and free of bacteria.

  • Store It Properly: When you’re not wearing it, store your splint or guard in its case. This protects it from damage and keeps it clean.

  • Keep It Away from Heat: Never leave your device in a hot car or in direct sunlight, as it can warp and lose its shape.

When to Consult a Dental Professional

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of teeth grinding or jaw pain, it’s best to consult a dentist. They can properly diagnose the problem and recommend the right treatment. They can also take impressions for a custom-fitted device that will be much more effective and comfortable than an over-the-counter one.

The dentist can discuss other lifestyle changes that can help, like stress reduction techniques or physical therapy for your jaw.

Conclusion

Both a bite splint and a night guard are great tools for protecting your teeth and improving your oral health. The difference lies in their purpose: a night guard is for protection against grinding, while a bite splint is a therapeutic device for treating jaw-related issues.

The best option for you depends on your specific symptoms and the underlying cause of your problem. The only way to truly know is to have a professional assessment by Hills Dental Design. We recommend a suitable approach to help improve your comfort and protect your teeth.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a night guard for jaw pain? 

A: A night guard is primarily for protecting teeth from grinding. While it might offer some relief, it won’t address the underlying cause of jaw pain. A bite splint is a better option for treating jaw-related issues.

Q: Is a custom-made night guard better than a boil-and-bite one? 

A: Yes, a custom-made night guard from a dentist offers a much better and more comfortable fit, and it’s more durable. It provides superior protection and is less likely to fall out during the night.

Q: How long does it take to get used to wearing a splint or guard? 

A: It might feel a bit strange at first, but most people get used to wearing a splint or guard within a few nights.

Q: Do I need a prescription to get a bite splint? 

A: A bite splint is a custom-made medical device that needs to be prescribed and fitted by a dentist. You can’t just buy one off the shelf.

Q: Can a bite splint fix my TMJ? 

A: A bite splint is a very effective tool for managing and treating the symptoms of TMD (which includes TMJ issues). It can help a lot, but a full treatment plan may also include other therapies.

Source: Bite Splint vs Night Guard: Which Option Fits Best?

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