What Are Night Guards?

A night guard, also known as an occlusal guard, is a type of dental appliance that protects your teeth from damage while you sleep. Specifically, it shields your teeth from the negative effects of grinding or clenching. According to the Cleveland Clinic, night guards may also reduce the effects of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

Night Guard Types

There are two types of night guards: upper and lower. They can cover an entire row of teeth (full-arch guards) or just part of a row (partial-arch guards).

• Upper night guards are the most common, as the top teeth are generally more at risk of chipping or cracking due to nighttime teeth grinding. They are fairly comfortable to wear and won't interfere with tongue movement.
• Lower night guards are a more suitable option for individuals who have a strong gag reflex or otherwise find upper guards uncomfortable. It is also recommended as a post-operative treatment for individuals who have recently undergone a dental procedure on their lower teeth.

Although it isn't common, some people may wear upper and lower night guards. However, this practice is not recommended, as wearing both can strain your jaw, potentially increasing discomfort in individuals with TMJ.

Night Guard Material

Both upper and lower night guards come in three main forms: dual-laminate, hard, and soft.

• Dual-laminate night guards are most suitable for individuals who regularly grind their teeth. They have a hard exterior that adds an extra layer of protection to the teeth, but a soft interior for maximum comfort.
• Hard night guards are customized to the person's bite and are typically crafted of plastic or acrylic. They are made to withstand cases of severe grinding or clenching.
• Soft night guards are crafted from flexible materials, such as silicone, making them the most comfortable option. They are best suited for individuals with mild to moderate teeth grinding or clenching cases.

When Is It Appropriate to Use Night Guards?

It is best to wear night guards while you sleep. They are not designed to be worn while awake and may cause discomfort, making it difficult to speak if you do.

What Are Retainers?

Dental retainers keep teeth from shifting back to a misaligned position after orthodontic treatment or having braces removed. The design of retainers allows the bone time to heal and stabilizes the position of each affected tooth.

Types of Retainers

Retainers can be made from transparent and flexible materials or can be hard and crafted with visible wire for added protection. Regardless of the material, retainers are available in one of two types: removable or fixed.

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers can be worn or taken out as needed. Initially, they are worn full-time, often at night. Some removable retainers have a plastic base and are made of wire. These are called wire retainers. Others are translucent and made of plastic. These are called clear plastic retainers.

Fixed Retainers

Fixed retainers cannot be removed at will. They are bonded to the back of the teeth and held in place with dental wire, which is then covered with composite material to prevent injury to the tongue. Fixed retainers are commonly used in cases of severe periodontal disease and rotations.

When Should You Wear a Retainer?

After a dental procedure, your dentist may recommend wearing a retainer during the day or at night to prevent your teeth from shifting back to an undesired position.

Night Guard vs. Retainer: Key Differences

You might hear the term "night guard retainer" or the phrases "night guard" and "retainer" used interchangeably, but there are key differences between the two. While a dentist may recommend that you wear one for some time before switching to the other, their purposes are unique.

The following are some of the key differences between night guards and retainers:

• Thickness: Night guards are much thicker than retainers. They are designed to absorb more force and prevent dental damage from grinding or jaw clenching.
• Post-surgical treatment: Use retainers after a dental procedure to support the teeth while the bone and surrounding gum tissue heal. On the other hand, night guards help prevent damage but are not a treatment for misaligned teeth.
• Overnight wearability: Both retainers and night guards can be worn overnight. However, retainers are only worn overnight if prescribed by an orthodontist or if they are permanently fixed to the teeth.
• Durability: Both retainers and night guards are designed with durability in mind. However, night guards are more durable due to their thickness and ability to withstand significant force.
• Purpose: Retainers maintain tooth alignment after treatment, while night guards protect the teeth from damage while sleeping.
• Mobility: Fixed retainers cannot be removed at will, though night guards and temporary retainers can be.

Can You Use One in Place of the Other?

Night guards and retainers have distinct dental purposes and cannot be used interchangeably. While they may appear the same to the untrained eye or be referred to as "night guard retainers," they are designed for different purposes.

Preserve Your Smile With SmileSet

As you can see, retainers and night guards may appear similar, but they are indeed quite different. You may be tempted to use one instead of the other, but this could do more damage than good over the long run. Remember, it's always best to consult with an orthodontist before purchasing a dental appliance, as they can help determine the best device for your condition and ensure a more comfortable fit.

If you have questions about retainers or night guards or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our smile experts, please contact us. We would be more than happy to assist you.