Mouth Guard vs. Night Guard

What is the difference between a mouth guard and a night guard? You might think that it’s just a difference of wearing one during the day and one at night but there’s more to it than just these differences. Check out some of the differences between the two in the post below! Even though there are differences remember that one factor that makes a mouth guard similar to a night guard is that they both were designed to help protect one’s teeth.

The differences between the two vary from things like the functions to the materials used. As we just mentioned, both types of guards are used to protect teeth but they protect teeth from different things. Due to the fact that both guards have different functions, they’re also composed differently. A night guard is worn at night and is used to cushion your teeth from grinding while you sleep. Since the night guard is just used to protect against teeth grinding it’s made of less thick material, usually a strong acrylic plastic-like material that can hold up from teeth grinding and clenching. However, since a mouth guard is supposed to save your teeth from things like a hit to the face from playing sports or doing anything physical, it is made of a soft but thicker material that would act as a guard for your teeth should there be some impact. Also, another difference between the two is the coverage. Night guards cover the surface of your teeth whereas mouth guards cover the teeth and even your gums.

Now that you’ve learned the difference between the two, if you feel like you might need either, you should speak with your oral care provider so they can help determine which guard will be more beneficial for you and your teeth. Based on examining your teeth they’ll be able to decide what’s best! Should you have questions or concerns regarding mouth guards and night guards, please talk to your oral care provider.