Night Guards vs. Splints: Choosing the Right Protection for Teeth Grinding

Do you ever wake up with a sore jaw or a dull headache? Has your partner heard you grinding your teeth at night? If so, you're not alone. Bruxism—aka teeth grinding—is a common condition we see in many of our Park Slope patients. Left untreated, it can lead to worn enamel, cracked teeth, and even chronic jaw pain.

Two of the most effective treatments? Night guards and dental splints. Let’s break down the differences so you can make the right choice for your smile.

First, What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often while you sleep. It can be caused by:

• Stress or anxiety

• Sleep apnea

• Bite misalignment

• Certain medications or lifestyle factors (like caffeine or alcohol)

Over time, grinding can wear down enamel, cause sensitivity, or even damage restorations like crowns or fillings.

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard is a soft or semi-rigid plastic appliance that covers your upper or lower teeth. It’s custom-made to fit your bite and acts as a protective cushion between your upper and lower jaws.

Benefits:

• Prevents wear and tear from grinding

• Helps reduce jaw muscle tension

• Usually thinner and more comfortable for light grinders

Best for: Mild to moderate bruxism without joint issues

What Is a Splint (Occlusal Guard)?

A splint, sometimes called a stabilization splint or occlusal guard, is a hard, durable acrylic appliance that fully covers either the upper or lower teeth and is designed to realign the jaw and reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Benefits:

• Helps with severe grinding and TMJ dysfunction

• More durable for heavy grinders

• Can relieve jaw clicking or popping

Best for: Moderate to severe bruxism or TMJ disorders

How Do They Differ?

Feature	Night Guard	Splint (Occlusal Guard)
Material	Soft or semi-soft plastic	Hard acrylic
Comfort	Typically more comfortable	Slightly bulkier
Durability	Moderate	High
Purpose	Prevent grinding damage	Stabilize jaw + reduce pressure
For TMJ issues	Not ideal	Yes, therapeutic benefits

How We Help at Methal Dental Arts

Whether you're waking up with jaw pain or you’ve noticed chipped teeth, our team is here to help diagnose and treat bruxism before it causes long-term damage.

During your visit, we’ll:

• Conduct a bite analysis

• Check for signs of wear and inflammation

• Discuss your symptoms and lifestyle

• Take custom impressions for a perfect-fit appliance

Sleep Better, Smile Stronger

Ignoring teeth grinding can lead to serious oral health problems. But with the right custom appliance, you can sleep peacefully and protect your teeth for years to come.

If you're in Park Slope or the greater Brooklyn area and suspect you’re grinding your teeth, let’s talk. Methal Dental Arts is just around the corner—and we’re here to help you rest easy.

📍 Book your consultation today. Your smile deserves it.