Evie Summers
Mouth guards are dental appliances that fit over the teeth and are used for a variety of purposes, from preventing tooth damage to treating sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a common condition caused by a blockage of the upper airway, which can be treated with a CPAP machine or a mouth guard. Mouth guards for sleep apnea work by moving the lower jaw forward, creating more space in the throat and preventing the airway from collapsing. They can also hold the tongue in place to prevent it from blocking the airway. While they are considered safe, they may have side effects, and it is important to work with a healthcare professional when selecting and using one.
Does the Sleep Guard Work?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Treat sleep apnea, teeth grinding, snoring, or sports-related injuries |
| Types | Mandibular advancement devices (MADs), tongue-retaining devices (TRDs), boil-and-bite guards, dual laminate night guards, thermoplastic night guards, EVA night guards, oral splints, custom-made, store-bought |
| Effectiveness | Varies depending on the type and individual's unique situation; may be more effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea; may not address the underlying causes of sleep apnea |
| Side Effects | TMJ pain, discomfort, tooth soreness, gum soreness, jaw soreness |
| Cost | Under $100 for simple mouth guards; custom solutions may cost more and be more effective |
| Customization | Custom-fitted by a dentist for comfort and effectiveness; over-the-counter versions are less customizable |
| Usage | Worn during sleep for sleep apnea, teeth grinding, or snoring; worn during sports for sports-related injuries |
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What You'll Learn
Sleep apnea mouth guards
Sleep apnea is a common condition that affects an individual's breathing during sleep. The most common cause of sleep apnea is a blockage of the upper airway, which prevents breathing for 10 seconds or longer. The condition is more prevalent in men than in women, and being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing it. Sleep apnea can lead to chronic tiredness and exacerbate other health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure.
Treatment options for sleep apnea include Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices, surgery, and oral appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices or mouth guards. CPAP machines are often considered the most effective treatment, as they deliver a continuous flow of pressurised air to keep the airways open. However, oral appliance therapy is gaining popularity, especially for those who have difficulty using CPAP machines.
While sleep apnea mouth guards are generally considered safe, they may have side effects, especially during the initial months of use. These side effects usually resolve as the individual adjusts to the device. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider, such as a dentist or orthodontist, when selecting and using a sleep apnea mouth guard to ensure optimal fit and effectiveness. Custom-fitted oral appliances created by qualified dentists in collaboration with the patient's doctor are generally more effective than over-the-counter options.
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Custom-fit vs. over-the-counter mouth guards
If you are experiencing teeth grinding and clenching, also known as bruxism, a night guard can help prevent teeth damage and provide relief. There are two types of night guards available: custom-fit and over-the-counter.
Custom-fit night guards are created by a dental professional using a detailed mould of your mouth and teeth. This process involves taking an impression of your teeth using dental putty, which is then sent to a laboratory where the final product is made. The custom-fit night guard will be designed to fit your unique concerns, such as jaw alignment, teeth spacing, and bite pattern. This type of night guard provides the most complete protection for your mouth and is the safest and most accurate option. It also offers extreme durability and can be made for either sports or nighttime teeth grinding. The cost of a custom-fit night guard can vary depending on the material used and your specific needs, ranging from $100 to $1,000. However, they may be partially covered by your dental plan.
Over-the-counter night guards, on the other hand, are typically one-size-fits-all mouthpieces made of soft plastic. They are available at most drugstores and are a more affordable and convenient option. However, they may not provide the same level of protection, comfort, and durability as custom-fit night guards. Over-the-counter night guards are not custom-made for your mouth, and as a result, they may not hold in place well throughout the night. Additionally, they may not be suitable for violent teeth grinders and may not last as long as custom-fit guards.
While over-the-counter night guards can be a good short-term solution, they are not recommended for long-term use. If you are considering a night guard, it is important to consult with your dentist to determine which type is best suited to your specific needs.
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Mandibular advancement devices (MADs)
MADs are typically made of plastic and fit over a person's upper and lower teeth. They can be one-piece or two-piece devices. The one-piece option is more rigid and doesn't allow the mouth to move as much, while the two-piece option has two separate components linked together, allowing for more movement. The two pieces are connected by screws, hinges, and rubber bands, which enable the lower jaw to be eased forward. Some MADs, like the Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP), allow the user to control the degree of advancement.
To fit a MAD, a dentist will take an impression or 3D scan and a bite registration of the patient's teeth to ensure the device fits comfortably and won't slip out of place during sleep. The dentist will then send this information to a manufacturer, who will create the custom device. During a return visit, the dentist will fit the patient for the device and provide instructions on how to clean and care for it. The dentist may also recommend a follow-up sleep test to ensure the MAD is working effectively.
MADs are considered safe and effective for treating OSA, particularly in people with mild to moderate OSA, those who snore but do not have OSA, and those with severe OSA who do not respond well to or prefer not to use CPAP therapy. MADs may also be particularly effective for people with lower body weights and narrower areas behind the tongue or soft palate. However, it is important to note that MADs are less effective than CPAP therapy at reducing pauses in breathing and improving blood oxygen levels during sleep. MADs may cause side effects such as tooth pain, gum pain, and saliva buildup, but these usually improve over time as the user adjusts to the device.
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Tongue-retaining devices (TRDs)
TRDs are considered less comfortable than MADs and have not been studied as extensively, so it is less clear how effective they are at treating OSA. They are therefore not prescribed or used as often. However, they may be a good option for people who dislike or have trouble using PAP therapy.
Oral appliance therapy is gaining popularity as an alternative treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, especially for people who have trouble using a CPAP machine. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider when selecting and using a sleep apnea mouth guard, as they can have side effects.
While mouth guards can be purchased over the counter, custom-fitted oral appliances are more effective at treating sleep apnea. A qualified dentist will take a digital scan or impression and bite registration of the patient's teeth to ensure a good fit. Customized solutions are more expensive but are more effective in treating symptoms.
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Side effects and considerations
Mouth guards are dental appliances that cover your teeth and are used to treat conditions such as teeth grinding, sleep apnea, and sports-related injuries. While they can be effective, there are some side effects and considerations to keep in mind.
Discomfort and Irritation: When you first start wearing a night guard, it is common to experience minor discomfort and irritation as your mouth adjusts to the new appliance. This may include mild soreness in the gums, teeth, or jaw, along with a general feeling of pressure. These symptoms usually subside within a few days to two weeks. If the discomfort persists, it may indicate the need for a professional adjustment. It is recommended to start by wearing the night guard for shorter periods and gradually increasing the duration as you get comfortable.
Jaw Alignment and TMJ Disorders: In some cases, a poorly fitted night guard can put uneven pressure on your jaw, potentially leading to misalignment. This misalignment can worsen teeth grinding (bruxism) and may even result in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Jaw pain or a sensation that your jaw is not resting comfortably in its natural position may be indicators of this issue. It is important to address jaw misalignment promptly to prevent it from becoming a long-term problem.
Dental Health: While night guards are intended to protect your teeth, they can sometimes have the opposite effect, especially if they are not properly fitted. Teeth movement, loose teeth, and changes in your bite or jaw muscles may occur. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor these potential changes and make corrections as needed.
Oral Appliance Therapy Considerations: Oral appliances for sleep apnea, such as mouth guards, are typically recommended for people with mild to moderate OSA. They may also improve severe OSA, but CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy is generally preferred in urgent cases as it takes less time to be effective. Additionally, oral appliances may not be sufficient for individuals with low blood oxygen levels due to OSA or certain dental conditions, such as insufficient teeth to hold the device or significant periodontal disease.
Custom-Made vs. Store-Bought: Custom-made mouth guards created by a dentist to fit your exact dental anatomy tend to be more comfortable and effective than store-bought options. Store-bought guards, including "boil and bite" models, are cheaper and more convenient but are more likely to cause negative side effects due to their lack of customisation. It is important to consult with a dentist or healthcare provider to determine the most suitable option for your specific needs.
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Frequently asked questions
A sleep guard is a dental appliance that fits over your teeth. It is used to treat conditions such as teeth grinding, snoring, and sleep apnea.
Sleep guards work by creating an effective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, thereby preventing tooth damage from grinding or clenching. They also help reduce the pressure on the jaw joint and promote muscle relaxation.
There are three main types of sleep guards: mouth guards for sports, mouth guards for grinding teeth, and mouth guards for sleep apnea. Mouth guards for sleep apnea can be further categorized into mandibular advancement devices and tongue-retaining devices.
Sleep guards are generally considered safe, but they can have side effects. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider when selecting and using a sleep guard to ensure it is properly fitted and to address any potential side effects.
The cost of a sleep guard can vary depending on the type and customization. Simple sleep guards can cost under $100, while customized solutions may cost in the thousands but are more effective in treating symptoms. Insurance coverage for dental solutions can vary.
