Doctors and dentists recommend special mouth guards for some of their patients. Usually these mouth guards are primarily used while the patient is sleeping to control the positioning of the jaw when the muscles are not under the patient's conscious control. In some cases generic athletic mouth guards are sufficient, but most patients benefit greatly from specially designed mouth guards for their specific needs.
Types
There are three different types of mouth guards used for sleeping. The Stock mouth guard is the type normally used in sports. It offers less protection for the teeth and does not correct the bite and has the loosest fit. Mouth-formed mouth guards are heated and then shaped to fit the patient's mouth. While this type fits better it does not correct the positioning of the bite. Custom mouth guards last longer and are designed by doctors or dentists to fit precisely to the patient's teeth and gums. The positioning of the jaw and tongue can be corrected with the mouth guard to address several different types of disorders, including sleep apnea and teeth grinding.
Prevention/Solution
Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that occurs when the airway is blocked off, preventing the patient from breathing for a short time. Sufferers arouse from sleep to take a breath, which disrupts sleep. Severe OSA can wake people more than 10 times an hour. The drop in oxygen can damage the heart over time and complicate hypertension. In some patients a mouth guard designed to keep the tongue out of the back of the throat helps reduce OSA. Sometimes the jaw needs to be moved forward slightly to keep the airway from collapsing during sleep. A custom made mouth guard is needed for these patients to benefit from this type of treatment.
Features
Snoring is a common sleep disorder. In some cases the snoring is a result of the tongue sliding back and blocking the airway. Custom designed mouth guards can help keep the jaw forward and hold the tongue in position to reduce or eliminate snoring.
Effects
When people grind their teeth in their sleep it is called bruxism. Over time the enamel of the teeth can be worn down. In severe cases the tops of the teeth can even be worn flat. This type of tooth damage can cause the teeth to form tiny fractures or increase the risk of cavities. Mouth guards can protect the teeth from grinding together during sleep to prevent further damage.
Potential
Temporomandibular joint disorder, better known as TMJ, can occur in conjunction with bruxism. With TMJ the patient tends to clench her teeth, even while sleeping. The constant clenching tightens the muscles of the jaw. This can cause jaw pain, popping and headaches. Mouth guards can keep the jaw situated in a slightly open position that helps the muscles relax. It also keeps the jaw in a relaxed state that reduces the pain and popping.
Considerations
Adjusting to mouth guards is usually not a problem for most patients. Wetting the mouth guard before use can make it more comfortable and help it to settle into place. The dentist or doctor can help to shape the mouth guard so it is not too bulky or uncomfortable. The mouth guard should be brushed with a toothbrush and toothpaste before and after use. It can be soaked in denture cleaner or antiseptic mouthwash to keep it germ free.
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