Upper, Lower, or Both Night Guards: Which Do You Need?
Selecting a night guard is not always as simple as buying one and being done with it. If you are someone who grinds or clenches their teeth while sleeping, then there may be some question about whether you should use a top night guard, bottom night guard, or both.
The answer depends on more than just personal preference. Factors such as comfort, fit, your own dental structure, and even your oral health may affect what choice you make.
The aim of this article is to inform you about the distinctions between upper and lower night guards, when it becomes necessary for you to have both, and factors to consider when making the decision.
📑 Table of Contents
Upper vs. Lower Night Guards: What's the Difference?
As per the National Health Service (NHS), a mouth guard can be helpful for your teeth to avoid any damage from teeth grinding. Night guards are designed to fit over your teeth, but they can cover either your upper or lower arch. So, what's the difference?
Upper Night Guards
Upper night guards are worn over the upper teeth, also known as maxillary teeth. They form a protective layer between the upper and lower teeth that helps to prevent the consequences of grinding and clenching.
Lower Night Guards
Lower night guards are fitted over your lower teeth, otherwise known as your mandibular teeth. This type of guard is just like the upper guard, but it is distinguishable in terms of protecting the right set of teeth.
Between the two, upper night guards are often assumed to trigger gagging more, but other factors can contribute. Learn more about why your dental guard might make you gag.
Upper, Lower, or Both: Which Night Guard Is Right for You?
The selection of a night guard is not always based on personal choice. Existing dental work, level of comfort, and teeth grinding could be considered when choosing an appropriate type.
What to Consider When Choosing an Upper or Lower Night Guard
Your Existing Dental Work
If you have crowns, veneers, bridges, or other dental restorations, mention them when discussing a night guard with your dentist. A review suggests that bruxism may contribute to complications involving dental restorations. Your existing dental work is therefore worth considering when planning tooth protection.
Your Comfort and Fit
A night guard should fit securely without feeling excessively bulky or uncomfortable. Research comparing over-the-counter and professionally made bite splints examined patients' experiences with factors such as fit and comfort. However, it didn't establish that upper or lower guards are inherently more comfortable.
Your Grinding Habits
Bruxism can take place during waking hours or while you are asleep, and the rate, duration, and severity of this condition can differ. Such factors provide additional context to help assess your grinding; however, it will not tell which guard is better for you.
Do You Need Both Upper and Lower Night Guards?
Not necessarily. Even if you grind your teeth, that does not necessarily make it necessary to wear a night guard on both of your arches. You have to choose the design that suits you depending on your teeth, your bite, as well as any dental work done. Your dentist can assess which option is appropriate for protecting your teeth.
Find the Right ClearClub Night Guard for Your Needs
Selecting a night guard can be a daunting experience, particularly when you are not sure which one to select. The good news? You don't have to figure everything out at once.
ClearClub provides custom night guards tailored to your dental impressions, available in several designs. Our subscription service also makes renewing your night guard easy.
Ready to take the next step toward protecting your smile? Explore ClearClub's custom night guards and find an option that works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Should I Get an Upper or Lower Night Guard?
Neither option is automatically better for everyone. The right choice depends on your needs, dental restorations, and the suitability of the appliance in your mouth. Consult your dentist to determine which arch is appropriate for you.
❓ Do I Need Both Upper and Lower Night Guards?
Not necessarily. Grinding your teeth doesn't automatically mean you need guards for both arches. Your dentist can help determine whether you need a night guard and which option may be appropriate for you.
❓ Are Upper or Lower Night Guards More Comfortable?
Comfort varies from person to person. Neither design is guaranteed to feel better for everyone, so a proper fit is important. If your night guard feels bulky, uncomfortable, or unstable, ask your dentist to assess it.
Looking for something else? Check our full FAQ section.