Will any gum guard work to prevent nighttime bruxism?

ampersand_

My sister was given one by her (NHS) dentist recently. It looks much the same as a clear plastic retainer that you'd get after braces, and as far as I know it wasn't too expensive either. The only thing was she had to wait a few days to collect it, as after taking the moulds they had to be sent to the lab for the appliance to be made and then sent back. It's really helped her though so well worth it!

roxy28

ampersand_ wrote: »

My sister was given one by her (NHS) dentist recently. It looks much the same as a clear plastic retainer that you'd get after braces, and as far as I know it wasn't too expensive either. The only thing was she had to wait a few days to collect it, as after taking the moulds they had to be sent to the lab for the appliance to be made and then sent back. It's really helped her though so well worth it!

Yes thats the same procedure dad had and cheap

Alye16

I have been using one made by my dentist (£120) since August. Its made such a difference as my teeth are not as sensitive and my jaw doesn't ache as much.It fits perfectly and involved him taking impressions and then a wait of a few days

cashmonger

When you say it helps alot what exactly is it gonna do? I dont have aching jaw but he said my teeth are cracked due to it. I dont see how you'd 'notice' an improvment in the short term only in the long term in having less cavities.

He said they crack and then decay formed from then.

I think beta blockers are a dumb idea. Thats no long term solution. I am stressed all the time Id say, but I dont think taking drugs are a solution. Thats like getting a benzo habit to help you sleep.

[Deleted User]

It looks like the NHS aren't actually saying no to the off-the-shelf guards, just that it won't fit as well:

"Mouth guards are similar in appearance to those used in sports such as boxing. They're usually made out of bendy rubber or plastic and can be made by your dentist to fit your mouth. You'll usually have to pay for this type of custom-made dental appliance.

Mouth guards are also available to buy from your local pharmacist. However, it's unlikely to fit as well as one made by your dentist."


Is it still possible to breathe through your mouth with a guard in?

belfastgirl23

jack_pott wrote: »

Is it still possible to breathe through your mouth with a guard in?

They take a mould of your upper teeth and create a clear plastic mouthpiece to fit exactly over them so ideally you shouldn't notice it too much. I mostly notice it where it goes slightly in over my upper palate behind my front teeth but it's not too bad and definitely no issues breathing.

Mine doesn't prevent grinding or aching or sensitive teeth...but it does protect the teeth from cracking apparently.

Ickle

I tried off the shelf alternatives prior to getting one fitted at my dentist. I found I would take it out during the night as it was not comfortable.

The dentist fitted one is really comfortable and it really helps. I find I now notice if I forget to wear it as my jaw aches. The only evidence I had of teeth grinding prior to wearing a mouth guard was I could crack my jaw at will. I can no longer do this, which I assume is a good thing

Rowan_moon

Have you thought of having hypnotherapy to stop grinding your teeth?