“Some tortures are physical and some are mental, but the one that is both is dental.”
That sounds Scary, right? But let’s be honest: When it comes to teeth problems, they can feel like a nightmare. From sore jaws to shifting teeth, the stress is real. At that time, your dentist might suggest you get a retainer mouth guard to help.
Many of you get confused between a retainer and a mouth guard. Are they the same thing or just something bulky you wear at night?
Let’s clear up some common myths before you leave yours sitting in a drawer. Whether you grind your teeth or have just finished braces, your mouth deserves the truth—a guard that helps.
Myths and Facts
Myth 1: Retainers and mouth guards are the same thing
Fact: While both look similar, retainers and mouth guards have different purposes.
A retainer or clear aligner is worn after braces to help keep teeth in place and prevent them from shifting back to their original position. On the other side, a mouth guard is designed to protect the teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching during sleep.
Myth 2: People with braces need retainers
Fact: Retainers aren’t just for people with braces or invisalign
While post-orthodontic patients commonly use retainers to prevent their teeth from moving, people naturally prone to tooth shifting can also benefit from wearing one. Factors like:
- Aging
- Genetics
- Sleep position
Causes your teeth to drift over time. Retainers help maintain the alignment of your smile, even if you’ve never worn braces.
Myth 3: You only need retainer guards for a few months
Fact: Your teeth can move for the rest of your life.
Many people think they only need to wear a retainer for short period after getting their braces off. But the reality is that if you stop wearing retainer braces, your teeth can slowly shift back out of place even after years. That’s why dentists recommend wearing your retainer at night, long-term, to keep your smile looking great.
Myth 4: Over-the-counter mouth guard works just as well as custom ones
Fact: Custom retainers and mouth guards offer a better fit and protection.
Boil-and-bite mouth guards from the drugstore might be easy to get, but they don’t fit very well. They can feel bulky, uncomfortable and may not fully protect your teeth from shifting or grinding.
Whereas custom mouth guards and retainers are made using a mould of your teeth. That means they fit perfectly, feel more comfortable, and do a better job of keeping your teeth safe.
Myth 5: Retainer mouth guards stop teeth grinding
Fact: Retainer mouth guards don’t stop grinding; they protect your teeth from the damage they cause.
It’s a common misconception that wearing a retainer-style mouth guard will stop you from grinding your teeth. But the truth is that these guards act as a protector, not a cure. A retainer mouth guard doesn’t stop the grinding habit, but it cushions teeth and reduces harmful effects such as enamel wear, chips, jaw tension, and headaches.
Myth 6: Retainers are uncomfortable
Fact: Retainer mouth guards are designed for comfort and are easy to use.
Does wearing a retainer mouth guard every night sound like a task? If so, you’re not alone, as modern retainer design has come a long way. They are thin and lightweight, which barely causes any irritation. Once you get used to the feeling, which usually takes just a few nights, it becomes second nature, much like wearing a sleep mask or a weighted blanket.
Myth 7: Retainers Last Forever
Fact: Retainers and mouth guards wear out over time and need to be replaced.
With proper care, your retainer won’t last a lifetime. Regular use leads to wear and tear, including small cracks, loss of fit or yellowing. The retainers and night guards last between 6 and 12 months, depending on how often you wear them and how well you clean them.
Conclusion:
From using a retainer to keep your teeth aligned or a night guard to prevent grinding, knowing the fact is key to protecting your smile. So, don’t let any myths keep you from caring for your dental health. Investing in a custom-fit retainer or mouth guard can save you from costly dental procedures down the line—and help you sleep soundly at night.