Low Profile Night Guards

A low-profile night guard is a type of mouth guard that works to protect the teeth from smashing or grinding together, which is commonly called bruxism. The guard fits toward the back of the mouth and allows for separation in the jaw bone. Low-profile night guards are worn especially by children and those with smaller mouths while they sleep to prevent further damage to the enamel of their teeth.

Function

• People with the neuromuscular disorder that causes them to clench and grind their jaws can cause excessive wear and tear on their teeth. Overgrinding of the teeth can also cause loosen and destroy dental implants, crowns and fillings, resulting in more trips to the dentist to pay for expensive dental damage. Low-profile night guards are typically used at night when children or adults are less aware that they are grinding their teeth. The guard is typically made out of plastic or acrylic and is placed in the back of the mouth between both sets of teeth; there is usually a strip in front that allows for easy removal.

Types

• There are generally two types of low-profile night guards. Some guards cover the entire set of teeth to prevent not only grinding but also clicking and clenching. Other, thick guards can be placed on the back molars, which is more comfortable on the jaw. Some low-profile mouth guards also come in flavor varieties, such as mint and cinnamon. Low-profile guards are different from standard sizes, which often include a flap that covers the teeth to offer more support for those with larger mouth sizes.

Time Frame

• Low-profile night guards should be placed inside the mouth at bedtime and removed in the morning. For small children who may clench or grind their teeth during the day or while they take naps, the guard can be worn throughout the day. Over time, untreated bruxism, especially in childhood, can lead to very serious physical problems such as numbness and pain, shoulder disorders and chronic back pain later on in life.

Considerations

• Most low-profile night guards are designed for small women or children who have a smaller dental frame and mouth. For adults and men who have large jawlines, a standard or medium-to-large size night guard should be worn as opposed to the low profile; otherwise injury or choking could occur. You should initially seek advice from a dentist or orthodontist before using any kind of guard on a small child. Long-term use of any mouth guard can affect the overall growth and development of the teeth and jaw. Most low-profile night guards cost $70 to $80 and are nonreturnable. When you're not using your night guard, place it in a disinfecting container.

Effects

• Bruxism can also increase sensitivity in the mouth and gums, which can be felt especially while eating and drinking hot and cold items. The guard helps to keep the cementum, the surrounding roots and the gum line healthy around the teeth, preventing further sensitivity and gum disease. Wearing a low-profile night guard helps reduce the risk of grinding on the enamel of the tooth and also improves breathing and neck posture, reduces pain and pressure in the head and eliminates tension headaches. Low-profile night guards can also be worn during certain acts of strenuous physical activity such as wrestling, archery, skeet shooting and other sports where you might clinch your teeth.