When it comes to protecting your teeth, not all oral appliances serve the same purpose. Night guards and mouth guards may look similar at first glance, but they are designed for very different needs. Understanding the difference can help you make the right choice for your dental health and lifestyle.

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard is a custom-fitted dental appliance typically worn while you sleep. Its main purpose is to protect your teeth from the effects of bruxism - the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth. Grinding can wear down enamel, cause tooth fractures, lead to jaw pain, and even contribute to headaches.

Night guards act as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing pressure and preventing long-term damage. They are thinner and designed specifically for comfort during sleep.

Benefits of Night Guards:

• Protect teeth from grinding and clenching damage

• Help relieve jaw tension and pain

• Prevent morning headaches caused by bruxism

• Preserve dental restorations like crowns and fillings

What Is a Mouth Guard?

Mouth guards are designed to protect your teeth during physical activity. Athletes and active individuals wear them to prevent injury from sports like football, basketball, hockey, or martial arts. Unlike night guards, mouth guards are bulkier and cover more of the gums and teeth to shield them from impact. Mouth guards can be purchased over-the-counter, but custom-fitted options from your dentist provide the best comfort, fit, and protection.

Benefits of Mouth Guards:

•Protect against tooth fractures, chips, and loss from contact sports

• Cushion the lips, cheeks, and tongue during impact

• Reduce risk of jaw fractures and soft tissue injuries

•Improve confidence in sports by preventing dental emergencies

Which One Do You Need?

• Choose a night guard if you wake up with sore jaws, headaches, or notice wear on your teeth. It’s the right option if bruxism is your concern.

•Choose a mouth guard if you’re active in contact sports or activities where facial injury is possible. It’s your best defense against dental trauma.

In some cases, you may even need both - a night guard for bruxism and a mouth guard for sports.

Take the Next Step at Dr. Sam’s Premier Dentistry

Both night guards and mouth guards play an important role in protecting your smile, but their functions are not interchangeable. A night guard safeguards your teeth from grinding while you sleep, whereas a mouth guard shields your teeth from sudden impacts during sports.

At Dr. Sam’s Premier Dentistry, we can help you determine which guard is right for your needs and provide a custom-fitted solution for maximum comfort and protection. Visit our office in Sherman, Texas, or call (903) 708-6400 to schedule an appointment today.