• Impress aligners have been around since 2019.
• It corrects teeth misalignments in kids, teens, and adults.
• Its clear aligners can straighten teeth in 3 to 24 months.
• Treatment costs are fixed and range from $3,499 to $6,999.

Impress vs. Invisalign: Which Is Better For You?

For convenient teeth straightening, choose Impress. Its distinctive approach combines at-home monitoring with a few visits to dedicated clinics.

The same orthodontist will manage your entire treatment, ensuring seamless, individualized care with predictable and effective results.

But if there’s no Impress clinic nearby, Invisalign is an established brand and a more widely available alternative that now offers virtual monitoring. However, because Invisalign works with independent practices, treatment experiences, costs, and suitability for children and teenagers may vary.

Pros & Cons of Impress Clear Aligners

Here’s a summary of the things we like and don’t like about Impress:

Impress Aligner Pros

• Customers are happy with its fast results and invisible design
• Has a transparent pricing model and flexible payment options
• In-person evaluations are free and don’t require you to purchase
• You can start and complete your journey at any Impress location
• Impress Guarantee covers any additional refinements you may need
• HSA/FSA and insurance can reduce treatment costs by $2,500
• Impress app is available for iPhone and Android users

Impress Aligner Cons

• Access to Impress clinics is limited to major U.S. cities
• Doesn’t offer at-home impression kits and online assessments
• Complex cases may require longer treatment times
• Few people experienced aligner discomfort and poor support
• Keeping aligners clean can be a struggle with the limited tools

Who Can Use Impress Clear Aligners?

Impress aligners are for adults, teenagers, and children with crooked teeth. Some conditions it can treat are:

• Crowded teeth
• Gapped teeth
• Overbite
• Crossbite

You can book a free consultation to see if Impress suits you. 

If you qualify, your provider may prescribe one of the following treatment plans, depending on your condition and what’s available in your area.

Impress Aligners for Adults

Adults aged 18+ who qualify for Impress may get these treatments:

Impress Aligners for Teenagers

Impress clinics may offer treatments for teenagers aged 12 to 17 whether or not their permanent teeth have fully erupted.

Impress Aligners for Kids

Children aged 7+ may also qualify for Impress Kids, but it can only treat certain conditions, such as:

• Open bite
• Narrow palate
• Overbite

It’s usually prescribed to prevent severe malocclusions, address issues that affect speech, or prepare a child for corrective orthodontic treatments.

Impress for Kids can last for 8 to 18 months, but children with more complex issues may transition to Impress Teens as their permanent teeth erupt.

How Much Do Impress Aligners Cost?

Impress clear aligners cost $3,499 to $6,999, depending on your plan. This covers everything you will need for the treatment:

• The Impress kit with all your clear aligners
• Up to five in-person visits at an Impress clinic
• Impress app for weekly treatment monitoring

The kit will also include whitening foam, chewies, a mouth retractor, and a travel case for storing clear aligners or retainers.

Your initial consultation is free, even if you decide against the treatment. 

Cost of Impress Treatment Plans

You can purchase your Impress aligners upfront or with a payment plan. Impress offers 12, 24, 48, or 60-month installments.

After the treatment, you can get a Retainer Subscription for $299/yr. It includes two retainers and access to 24/7 support via the Impress app.

HSA/FSA & Insurance Coverage for Impress

You can use your Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to lower the cost of your Impress aligners.

If your dental insurance covers out-of-network orthodontic benefits, you can also claim up to $2,500 in reimbursements for your treatment.

Impress Treatment Process: What’s It Like?

Impress follows a treatment model we’ve never seen before.

It combines professional oversight with at-home teeth straightening, virtual monitoring, and in-person visits for check-ups and additional procedures.

But unlike most clear aligner brands, Impress doesn’t work with third-party providers. Instead, it has its own clinics staffed with orthodontists.

This ensures you get quality and consistent care, allowing for a more precise treatment with reliable results.

Getting Started With Impress Aligners

Impress doesn’t have online assessments and at-home teeth impression kits. The only way to start treatment is to schedule a free appointment.

There are 130+ Impress clinics worldwide, including five in Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Santa Clara, and Seattle, which offer consultations.

Here’s what to expect after you’ve booked an appointment:

1. Find out if you’re a candidate ⁠— At the clinic, they’ll take a CBCT X-ray and 3D scan of your teeth to determine if you’re qualified for Impress aligners.
2. Preview your smile ⁠— If you pass the assessment, an in-house orthodontist will create your custom treatment plan and explain how it works.
3. Decide on the next steps ⁠— You can choose whether to continue with the treatment or not. If you do, you can pay for it using your preferred payment option.
4. Begin your treatment ⁠— Impress will send the aligner kit to your home. When it arrives, you can start wearing your custom clear aligners as prescribed.
5. Monitor your progress at home ⁠— Use the mobile app for weekly check-ins with the same orthodontist in charge of your treatment.
6. Get in-person care ⁠— Your provider may request 2 to 5 visits to track your progress or perform in-office procedures like interproximal reduction (IPR) and attachments for precise teeth alignment.
7. Make your final visit ⁠— Your provider will assess your results and tell you if you can switch to retainers or if you need refinement aligners.
8. Maintain your smile ⁠— Once you complete the treatment, you can buy the Impress retainers. Wearing them will keep your teeth straight.

Does Impress Offer Free Refinements?

Treatments don’t always go as planned. The Impress Guarantee can cover any refinement aligners to help you achieve your desired results.

You must complete all required clinic visits and in-app monitoring to get these free refinements. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay for them.

Customer Reviews on Impress Aligners

Impress has mostly positive feedback on Trustpilot and Yelp, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5⭐ from over 5,100 customers.

Nearly 87% of reviewers gave it 4 or 5 stars, while only 13% gave it 3 stars or less. Below is a summary of what people say about Impress aligners.

Positive User Feedback

Impress customers love its at-home treatment process, remote monitoring, minimal office visits, and smooth consultations. 

Many see fast results and appreciate the nearly invisible aligners. The personalized approach and transparent pricing are also frequently praised.

Negative User Feedback

Few experienced slow customer service, persistent aligner discomfort, and underwhelming results that needed additional refinements and extra costs. 

Limited clinic locations and inadequate cleaning tools made it difficult for some to access treatment and keep the aligners clean.

Why Choose Impress vs. Other Aligner Brands?

While at-home clear aligners are convenient, they can only handle simple cases in adults. Impress is a good option if you want a more comprehensive treatment that balances ease with professional insight.

Unlike the clear aligner kits you buy online, Impress can address more complex issues and treat children and teenagers, not just adults. It also lets you straighten your teeth and monitor your progress at home.

Though visits to an Impress clinic are necessary, these appointments are minimal compared to in-office alternatives. They help ensure you get orthodontic care throughout your clear aligner treatment.

Before making any decision that can change your smile, talk to a dental professional who can determine which treatments are best for your teeth.

Why Trust Our Impress Aligners Review

Like all of the clear aligner brands we’ve tried at NewMouth, our smile experts evaluated Impress aligners based on the following criteria:

• Overall customer experience
• Treatment process
• Pricing and financing options
• Customer service and aftersales
• Brand reputation

We understand that choosing the right clear aligner can be daunting. That’s why we've put together this Impress review to help you decide.

This article explores the current trends in orthodontic treatment, focusing on the impact of technology and patient demographics. We’ll also examine different factors that influence the duration of treatment and success rates.

Notable Trends in Orthodontic Treatment

Looking at key statistics can help provide a comprehensive overview of orthodontic care and give people insights into how to improve it in the future. Here are some noteworthy developments regarding technology, demand, and patient demographics:

• About 50% of people have misaligned teeth severe enough to require orthodontic care, and many adults seek treatment for functional and cosmetic reasons.
• While most orthodontic patients are under 18, there is a noticeable increase in adult patients receiving treatment.
• A notable 67.6% of the population under 18 years old reported orthodontic use, showing that these treatments are becoming a cultural norm for young people.
• 3D printing, computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), and new materials have greatly influenced orthodontic care, allowing customized and precise treatment options.
• Digital tools, virtual technology, and healthcare apps are becoming standard in orthodontic practices, improving patient engagement and treatment planning.
• 3D printing technology helps in treatment planning and creating specialized appliances, offering more efficient and effective solutions.

Age-Related Differences in Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment statistics show distinct patterns across different age groups, reflecting diverse needs, perceptions, and uptake rates.

• The use of orthodontic treatment increases continuously beyond the age of 3, with the highest values found for 13-year-old girls (55.0%) and 14-year-old boys (50.8%). Prevalence then begins to drop after these ages.
• Even 3- to 6-year-olds receive orthodontic treatment, although in small numbers (2.1%).
• Across all age groups, girls and women are more likely to receive orthodontic treatment than boys and men, possibly due to greater aesthetic demands and openness to treatment among females.

• Adults in their 40s and 50s show a lower percentage of interest in orthodontic treatment compared to those in their 20s, with rates of 46.2% and 45.1%, respectively, versus 63.2% in the 20s age group. 
• Meanwhile, middle-aged people have a relatively high percentage of interest (above 45%).
• Treatment cost and length are significant barriers to orthodontic treatment among middle-aged patients.
• Patients aged over 40 consider themselves "too old" for orthodontic treatment.
• A growing number of adults are pursuing orthodontic care for both long-standing issues and cosmetic reasons.
• Advances in orthodontic technology, such as clear aligners and less visible options, have made orthodontics more accessible and discreet for adults.

Reasons for Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment can make chewing more comfortable and reduce the risk of oral health issues. However, there are various reasons for orthodontic treatment, including aesthetic reasons.

Here are some key statistics for why people undergo orthodontic treatment:

• In a study group, the main reason for choosing orthodontic treatment was aesthetics, as reported by 70.4% of subjects, followed by bite problems (41.7%), oral hygiene (14.4%), crowded teeth (12.8%), and prosthetics (2.7%).
• Orthodontic treatment addresses health concerns beyond just improving appearance. People with misaligned teeth are at a higher risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease, cracked or chipped teeth, jaw problems, and gum issues.
• A study found that people who had orthodontic treatment were less likely to have gum disease and tooth extractions, indicating health benefits from treatment.

Treatment Duration and Success Rates

Various factors influence the duration and success of orthodontic treatment. This includes patient age, case complexity, and specific conditions.

• A study focused on the treatment of impacted canines in adults found a success rate of 69.5% among adults compared to 100% among younger patients.
• The chances of successful orthodontic treatment of an impacted canine in an adult are lower than in younger patients. 
• The treatment duration for adults, especially those over 30, is expected to be longer, with significant increases in the duration and number of treatment visits required.

• Men undergoing orthodontic treatment tend to have longer treatment times than women. On average, men's treatment lasts 19.09 months, while women's treatment averages 18.22 months.
• Factors such as missed appointments, treatment plans, and bracket detachment significantly affect the duration of treatment.
• Patient cooperation, treatment plan, and bracket detachment have the greatest effect on the duration of fixed orthodontic treatment.

Factors Influencing Treatment Duration

The duration of treatment is typically affected by the technique used, the number and skill of the orthodontist, patient compliance, and the severity of the condition. Other factors that affect the duration of treatment include:

• Extraction treatment lasts longer than non-extraction therapy.
• Age does not play a significant role in duration if the patient has all their permanent teeth.
• Impacted canines appear to prolong treatment.

Impact of Technology on Orthodontic Treatment

Technological advances have revolutionized orthodontic care, offering numerous benefits for patients and orthodontists. Additionally, technology has vastly improved treatment outcomes, making dental care more accessible and patient-friendly.

Technological advancements have drastically improved orthodontic treatment, making it more accessible. Because of this, more people of all ages have started seeking orthodontic care for functional and aesthetic reasons.

The statistics in this article highlight the significant impact of technology on orthodontic care. The data also shows an increasing demand across age groups for aesthetic and overall health benefits.

Understanding these trends can help orthodontic professionals provide high-quality care. This data can help professionals understand the patient’s changing needs and preferences.

Everything We Recommend

• Choose JS Dental Lab Night Guards if you want to create a personalized guard. You can choose the materials and thickness of your guard.
• Choose Pro Teeth Guard for the best custom night guard. If you damage your guard within a year of purchase, they can replace it for free.
• Choose Remi Custom Night Guards if you can’t decide between a top and bottom guard. You can opt to receive both guards with your order.
• Choose Sporting Smiles for the most affordable custom night guards. You can get each guard for about $47 to $62 if you buy them in bulk.

Many kids and adults unknowingly clench or grind their teeth. This condition is called bruxism or teeth grinding, which can happen at any time of the day.

There is no known cure for nighttime teeth grinding. However, many dental professionals recommend wearing night guards to keep your teeth safe while sleeping.

Bruxism causes constant friction between your upper and lower teeth. This friction causes the enamel—the teeth’s hard protective surface—to gradually break down.

Enamel loss exposes the soft inner layers of your teeth. It can lead to serious dental problems over time, such as:

• Increased teeth sensitivity to cold or heat
• Higher risk for dental cavities
• Fractured teeth

Sleep bruxism is more harmful than grinding teeth when you’re awake. Since it occurs at night after you fall asleep, you won’t be able to control it.

To protect your teeth at night, you can choose from over-the-counter and custom-made guards to protect your teeth. They’re more convenient and affordable than the night guards provided in dental clinics.

To help you decide, we compared different brands and picked our top recommendations.

Why Trust Us?

To find the best teeth guards for nighttime grinding, we:

• Spent 250+ hours researching the best night guards
• Scanned 100+ customer reviews on each dental guard
• Consulted 3 dental experts, including dentists and orthodontists
• Asked 3 of our writers to test different night guards
• Had our in-house dentists fact-check our article for accuracy
• Updated our review every month with the latest information

8 Best Night Guards for Bruxism in 2024

Here is a comparison of the best dental guards for night grinding:

You should consider wearing a teeth guard every night if you have nighttime bruxism. Some signs of night bruxism include waking up with:

• Jaw pain
• Tooth pain
• Cracked tooth
• Headaches
• Discomfort in your mouth
• Gum or jaw soreness
• Facial pain

If you experience these symptoms, you should see a dentist who can evaluate your condition and have a night guard made in the shape of your teeth.

But if you find professional dental guards too expensive or inconvenient, you can opt for over-the-counter and custom-fitted night guards sold online for a cheaper price.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at our top recommendations. This includes their pros and cons, some user reviews, why we recommend them, and when to consider other brands.

JS Dental Lab Night Guard

Best Personalized Mouth Guard

Why Choose JS Dental Lab? JS Dental Lab lets you personalize your night guard based on your preferences and needs. To start off, you can choose from clear or colored trays.

If you find its acrylic night guards too rigid, they can create a new set that combines different materials to make it more comfortable.

JS Dental’s Ultimate Protection kit provides the most customization. You can pick the material (hard acrylic with or without a soft inner layer) and thickness (3mm or 4mm).

The company has 5 night guards available:

1. JS Dental Soft ⁠— A 3mm guard for people with tooth sensitivity
2. JS Dental Durable ⁠— A flexible 2.5mm guard for jaw clenching
3. JS Dental Extra Durable ⁠— A hard 3mm guard for teeth clenching and grinding
4. JS Dental Hybrid ⁠— A tough guard with a soft inner layer for comfort and function
5. JS Premium 3D ⁠— A customizable guard for severe teeth grinding

JS Dental Lab Highlights

Why We Recommend It

• JS Dental Lab has some of the safest night guards on the market. They don’t contain BPA, MMA, phthalate, latex, sodium laurel sulfate, or sodium laureth sulfate.
• It has the longest return policy we’ve seen. You can get free adjustments for a whole year after your purchase. If these adjustments don’t work, you can return your guard and request a full refund or exchange it for a different mouthguard.⁴
• The company offers a $1 risk-free trial. You can order a custom night guard for $1 and try it out for a few days. You can decide to return it (and get a full refund) or have it adjusted until you’re 100% happy with the fit before processing your full payment.⁴
• It offers excellent value for your money considering its guarantees and the level of personalization involved. JS Dental Lab also has affordable financing options.

Why Consider Other Brands

• Customer support can be difficult to reach. The only way to get in touch is through email or text. If you want a phone consultation, you have to request one via email.
• While the website makes it easy to purchase add-ons like teeth whiteners and mouthguard cleaners, JS Dental Lab doesn’t offer them in bundles. 

JS Dental Lab is a trusted brand that has been making dental products for over 20 years. Its night guards are made of premium dental-grade materials from the U.S. and Germany.

Read our full review of JS Dental Lab Night Guards

Pro Teeth Guard

Best Custom-Fit Night Guard

Why Choose Pro Teeth Guard? Pro Teeth Guard is our top customized night guard because it protects your teeth longer than most brands.

Nightguards get damaged over time and have to be replaced. Pro Teeth Guard offers one free replacement in case you break, crack, or grind through your guard within a year of purchase.

If you’re not satisfied with the fit of your night guard, you have two options. You can request a 110% refund or get free adjustments within 60 days of receiving your order.

Pro Teeth Guard offers 3 night guards based on your bruxism symptoms:

1. Soft Night Guard ⁠— For light grinding and clenching
2. Hybrid Night Guard ⁠— For moderate teeth grinding
3. Hard Night Guard ⁠— For severe grinding

You can choose from upper and lower teeth guards. Each guard is also available in two sizes (adult male and female) and can be further customized to fit you.

Pro Teeth Guard Highlights

Why We Recommend It

• Pro Teeth Guard mouthguards are made of non-toxic, FDA-approved, dental-grade materials. They’re 100% BPA-free and latex-free.
• The company offers free shipping to the U.S. and Canada. If your guard is under warranty, any additional teeth impression kits you may need are also shipped free.
• If you send inaccurate dental impressions, Pro Teeth Guard will send you another impression kit for free. They’ll also give you tips to help you take better molds. 

Why Consider Other Brands

• Pro Teeth Guard’s long guarantees seem to come with a price. It’s more expensive than other custom night guards featured on our list.
• It may not be an option if you don’t want phthalate in your mouthguard. Pro Teeth Guard uses dialkyl phthalate (a safe form of phthalate) for its Hard Night Guard.³
• Pro Teeth Guard’s acrylic guards (Hard and Ultra-Thin Daytime Guard) contain methyl methacrylate (MMA). However, the company cures them, so there’s no risk of exposure.³

Its mouthguards have the same quality as those offered in dental clinics. They’re made in a professional dental lab (San Diego County, CA) that also produces them for dentists.

Read our full review of Pro Teeth Guard

Remi Custom Night Guards

Best for First-Time Nightguard Users

Why Choose Remi? Remi is the best custom mouthguard if you’ve never worn one, but want to start protecting your teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism.

You only need a top or bottom guard (not both) to keep your teeth safe from grinding. With Remi, you can choose to receive both guards or two of each with your order.

It’s a great choice for beginners who aren’t sure which one they’d like. People who prefer switching between a top and bottom teeth guard may also like it.

You can purchase Remi’s night guards alone or bundle with other products:

• Custom night guards ⁠— 1mm guards with hard shells and soft inner layers
• Starter Bundle ⁠— Night guards, guard cleaner, and teeth whitening foam
• Essentials Bundle ⁠— Night guards, ultrasonic cleaner, and a removal tool
• Super Bundle ⁠— Night guards, ultrasonic cleaner, 2 bottles of guard cleaners, 2 bottles of teeth whitening foam, and 2 removal tools

Remi Highlights

Why We Recommend It

• You get two mouthguards for the price of one. If you pay upfront, this brings down the cost to about $114.50. This makes it more affordable than most night guards.
• Remi allows you to order different night guards (top and bottom trays) or two of the same kind (such as two bottom teeth guards) based on your preference.
• Subscribing to Remi Club is free and will save you money in the long run. Benefits include free impressions, free shipping, and a pricing of $59 for new night guards.

Why Consider Other Brands

• Remi may take a while to ship your night guards. You have to wait for the confirmation email, approve it, and wait another two weeks before they deliver your orders.
• The company doesn’t give you much flexibility as it only offers one type of night guard. All customers will receive the same 1 mm guard with hard and soft materials.
• Remi’s night guards are thin and can wear easily with severe teeth grinding. You have to replace them with a new night guard every 6 months, which adds to the costs.

Remi was founded in 2019. The company offers a range of dental care products, such as night guards, retainers, and teeth whitening kits.

Read our full review of Remi Night Guard

Sporting Smiles

Best Affordable Nightguard

Why Choose Sporting Smiles? Sporting Smiles is the go-to brand if you want affordable night guards. While most guards cost $120, the company offers them for about $90 to $105 each.

Sporting Smiles also lets you purchase several mouthguards for a discounted price. Instead of paying the standard price, you only have to pay $47 to $62 for every additional order.

For an extra $20, you can have your teeth impressions digitally scanned. The company will keep these 3D scans for life, so you can reorder any time you need more night guards.

Sporting Smiles currently has 5 night guards. Each one provides a different level of comfort, protection, and visibility. You get to choose a guard that best fits your needs:

1. Soft Grinding Guard ⁠— Ideal for heavy clenching; made of 3mm soft EVA for flexibility and maximum comfort while giving adequate protection
2. Dual Laminate Guard ⁠— Recommended for heavy grinding; has a hard outer layer and a soft inner layer, ensuring both comfort and long-term durability
3. Dual Laminate Back Cut ⁠— Has the same specifications as the Dual Laminate Guard, except it’s less noticeable when worn
4. Flexible Super Hard ⁠— Best for all-around protection; has the right balance of durability and flexibility, making it a good option for light to moderate teeth grinding
5. Flexible Hard Back Cut ⁠— A more discreet and comfortable alternative to Sporting Smile’s all-around mouthguard, the Flexible Super Hard

Sporting Smiles Highlights

Why We Recommend It

• Sporting Smiles is the only brand that offers Emergency Night Guards ($345). You should receive your custom night guards within 6 to 7 days of placing your order. 
• You can purchase up to 4 night guards at once. It also gives you the option to buy more impression trays and putty ($5) and custom-fit whitening trays ($35).
• In addition to night guards, the company has mouthguards for different sports. They come in fun and unique designs. Examples include boxing and MMA mouthguards.

Why Consider Other Brands

• Most brands ship night guards within 5 to 10 days of receiving impressions. Sporting Smiles requires a $35 payment to deliver your order within the same time frame.
• The company only keeps teeth molds for a year. After that, you have to retake your teeth impressions or opt to have them digitally scanned, so they’re kept on file for life.¹⁰

Sporting Smiles was established in 2009. It provides high-quality mouthguards that are more affordable than what you would typically get from dentists.

Read our full review of Sporting Smiles

DenTek Dental Guards

Best Over-The-Counter Nightguard

Why Choose DenTek? DenTek has a selection of over-the-counter night guards. You can use them straight out of the box or within minutes of making them. It’s a fast and cheap way to protect your teeth.

The brand offers do-it-yourself night guard kits that you can order online. These DIY kits contain everything you need to create your own guard at home, from materials to step-by-step instructions.

DenTek has 3 nightguards ideal for teeth grinding:

1. Professional-Fit Dental Guard ⁠— Recommended for light grinders; the boil-and-bite guard is easy to make and fully covers your upper teeth
2. Comfort-Fit Dental Guard ⁠— For people who find full-coverage night guards uncomfortable; has an adjustable band and partially covers your lower teeth
3. Ready-Fit Dental Guard ⁠— Ideal for emergency protection; disposable and ready to wear

DenTek Highlights

Why We Recommend It

• DenTek’s night guards don’t contain latex and bisphenol-A (BPA), a toxic chemical that’s potentially harmful to human health. This makes them safe for everyday use.
• Its guards offer some level of customization. You can adjust them to fit your teeth.
• You can get a refund if you’re not satisfied with the fit of your teeth guard. If your guard fails to protect your teeth while under warranty, you may also get a free replacement.

Why Consider Other Brands

• Over-the-counter night guards aren’t ideal for long-term use. You can’t wear them for more than 3 months without seeing a dentist or orthodontist.
• There’s no way to personalize your night guard. You can’t choose a thickness or decide between an upper or lower guard.

DenTek has been providing oral care products since 1984. Its over-the-counter guards are cheap alternatives to custom-fit night guards in case you lose or damage them.

We only recommend DenTek for temporary protection against teeth grinding. For safe and long-term use, you should opt for custom guards.

Cheeky Mouthguard

Best Nightguard for Comfort

Why Choose Cheeky? Cheeky Night Guard is often praised for its comfort and quality. Some customers say it feels better than the professional guards from a dentist’s office.

Like most custom guards, you’ll be asked to take teeth impressions at home. But instead of making guards out of these molds, the company will take 3D scans of your impressions.

Cheeky will use this 3D model to digitally print a mouthguard in the replica of your teeth. The process helps ensure a comfortable fit.

There are two ways to buy a Cheeky night guard:

• First, you can take the online quiz. The company will use your answers to determine which type and thickness works best for you and provide links for quick ordering.
• You can also skip the quiz and pick your own specifications. You can choose between a hard night guard (0.76mm thick) and a soft night guard (1.0mm to 3.0mm thick).

Cheeky Night Guard Highlights

Why We Recommend It

• Its custom-fit night guards are made of 100% FDA-approved materials. They’re completely free of BPA, silicone, and latex so they should be safe to wear.¹²
• When you buy Cheeky’s night guards, you can save 20% on other dental care products (like an electric toothbrush or teeth whitening kit) if you buy them together as a bundle.
• It offers a subscription service (Cheeky Club) that will help you save up to $100 on every night guard. Subscribers also get free shipping and can take new impressions anytime.

Why Consider Other Brands

• Cheeky only has hard and soft night guards. It doesn’t offer a hybrid night guard which combines both materials for durability and comfort.
• Its soft night guards are more prone to damage since they lack the tough outer shell of hybrid models. They can wear easily and have to be replaced often.
• Cheeky doesn’t make it easy to choose a night guard for your needs. You’re better off with brands that offer products for different types of teeth grinders.

Cheeky has been making safe, high-quality, and affordable night guards since 2018. Its products are manufactured in the same labs that create guards for dentists.

Read our full review of Cheeky Night Guard

Chomper Labs

Fastest Shipping Nightguard

Why Choose Chomper Labs? Chomper Labs is known for its quick processing. It can ship your teeth impression kit and night guard faster than most brands.

During checkout, you can “fast track” the creation of your custom-fit guard. They’ll make it within 24 hours of receiving your impressions and deliver it in the next 3 to 4 days.

You can also upgrade your shipping to speed up the delivery of your orders.

Chomper Labs has four night guards available:

1. Soft Night Guard ⁠—  For light to moderate grinding
2. Hybrid Night Guard ⁠— For moderate to heavy grinding
3. Hard Night Guard ⁠— For heavy to severe grinding
4. Retainer Night Guard ⁠— For hard teeth grinding

Chomper Labs Highlights

Why We Recommend It

• Chomper Labs offers free adjustments until you’re satisfied with the fit of your night guard. If you don’t like the replacement, you can get a refund for up to 100 days.¹⁶ 
• If you grind through your night guard within 6 months of buying it, you can get a new one free of charge.¹⁶

Why Consider Other Brands

• Free delivery is only available with your initial order. If you opt for replacement guards to ensure a better fit, you’ll have to cover shipping fees.
• Its night guards may feel tight at the beginning. You may have to wear them several times before they become comfortable.

Chomper Labs has been operating its full-service dental lab in California since 2018. You can request a fully customized night guard in the material and thickness you like.

Read our full review of Clear Club

Clear Club

Best Nightguard for Braces

Why Choose Clear Club? Clear Club makes it easy to get a new night guard, which can be a huge plus if you wear braces. You can get a fresh set each time your braces are adjusted.

The company offers a Renewal Plan so you can receive a custom-fit night guard every 3, 4, or 6 months. But you can also decide when they’ll ship your next tray.

Clear Club saves dental impressions so you don’t have to make one every time. If your dentist adjusts your braces, you can take a new impression and get a guard that fits your current teeth.

You’ll have four hybrid night guards to choose from:

1. Custom Night Guard ⁠— Made of clear plastic
2. Multi-Color Night Guard ⁠— Multicolor guard with 5 color options
3. Color Night Guard  — Single-color guard with 8 color options
4. Dynamic Duo Night Guard ⁠— Comes in 3 color options

Clear Club Highlights

Why We Recommend It

• Its colored night guards are excellent for kids and teenagers. You can choose from single-color and multicolor guards or opt to receive one of each color.
• The company website has step-by-step instructions and video tutorials on how to take impressions. If you make a mistake, they can send another free impression kit.²⁰
• You can save up to 40% with a Clear Club Renewal Plan. Each guard will only cost you $55 to $85. You can also get a free teeth whitening kit for orders worth $180.

Why Consider Other Brands

• The renewal plan doesn’t cover additional impression kits or free shipping.²¹ You may need to purchase them separately if you need adjustments.
• Impressions are only kept on file if you have an active subscription. If you want to re-order without one, you have to buy an impression kit and take new impressions. 
• Clear Club’s colored guards are limited to one thickness. Only its clear custom night guards are available in various thicknesses (1.3mm, 2.0mm, and 3.0mm).

Clear Club was founded in 2018 and is based in Los Angeles. The company is dedicated to providing professional-grade night guards for reasonable prices.

Read our full review of Clear Club

Custom vs. Over-The-Counter Night Guards

When choosing a night guard, you generally have two options. You can buy an over-the-counter guard or have one custom-made to fit your teeth.

Each type of night guard has its advantages and disadvantages. Below is a quick guide to help with your decision:

Customized Night Guards

A custom mouthguard is made to fit your teeth using dental-grade materials. It’s more comfortable and durable. It can also protect against light, moderate, and severe grinding.

Unlike over-the-counter guards, you can use them with braces or dental implants. You can get custom night guards from licensed dental professionals or online retailers:

1. Professional Dental Guards (Occlusal Guard)

These night guards are offered by dentists and orthodontists at dental clinics. They’re the most expensive and may cost you $300 to $1,000.

A dental professional will take your teeth impression and send it to a laboratory. The lab will then create your custom night guard and ship it back to the dentist, who will schedule your fitting.

2. Night Guard Kits

These custom night guards are made in the same labs that produce professional dental guards. Each guard only costs $90 to $170, so they’re cheaper than what dentists offer.

Companies that provide them (such as Pro Teeth Night Guard, JS Dental Lab, Remi, and Sporting Smiles) use dentist-grade materials to create your fitted mouthguard.

You don’t have to see a dentist or orthodontist. You can buy an impression kit online, take your own dental impression, send it back, and wait for the delivery of your night guard.

Over-The-Counter Night Guards

These night guards are often made of cheap materials that quickly wear out. They can offer light protection but they’re not ideal for heavy teeth grinders or long-term use.

Most brands cost $20 to $25, which makes them cheaper than custom night guards. You can buy them from online stores like Amazon and retailers such as Walmart. There are 2 kinds:

1. Ready-To-Wear Night Guards

We only recommend disposable night guards as an emergency option for short-term use (no more than a month). You can wear them while waiting for your custom guard.

Also known as stock night guards, they’re the most affordable and easiest to acquire. Unfortunately, they only come in one size and may not fit your teeth very well.

You can buy them in packs which include several single-use night guards. Each guard is worn overnight and thrown out the next day.

2. Do-It-Yourself Night Guards

DIY night guards are more durable and can be worn for up to 3 months. However, dental professionals don’t recommend wearing them for extended periods.

They provide a better fit than disposable night guards. Each kit will include step-by-step instructions and thermoplastic molds that can be shaped into your teeth using heat.

Depending on the kit you have, you either have to place the mold in:

• Hot water (for boil-and-bite guards)
• Microwave (for microwave-and-bite night guards)

After heating, you have to bite down on the mold while it’s soft. Next, run the mold under cold water so it hardens again and becomes ready to use.

Key Takeaways

Each person’s teeth are unique, which is why most dentists recommend custom night guards. These guards are made to fit and give better protection against bruxism. 

One can be made at a local dentist or orthodontist for $300 to $1,000. But if you’re looking for cheaper alternatives, you can order them online from the top brands:

• Pro Teeth Night Guard
• JS Dental Lab
• Remi
• Sporting Smiles 

These companies provide dentist-grade custom-fit night guards at an affordable price. You can get one for $90 to $170 (or at a discount if they offer a subscription).

Dental professionals don’t recommend using over-the-counter night guards for longer than a month. You should only use them for short-term protection from teeth grinding.

How We Picked the Best Teeth Guards for Bruxism

Our team consulted dental professionals on factors we should consider. 

Using this expert-guided information, we developed criteria that would help us choose the best night guards for sleep bruxism.

After spending 250+ hours on research and testing, we evaluated and compared the top night guard brands using these criteria:

• Type of night guard ⁠— Custom-made or over-the-counter
• Cost and financing ⁠— Affordable pricing and the availability of low-cost monthly installments with zero to low-interest rates
• Molding process ⁠— Ease of taking impressions or teeth molds
• Level of protection ⁠— Whether it can protect against light, moderate, or severe teeth grinding and clenching
• Product safety ⁠— The use of safe and high-grade materials that are FDA-approved and free of potentially harmful chemicals
• Durability and comfort ⁠— Comfortable for overnight use and has the ability to withstand nighttime grinding
• Customizability ⁠— Option to choose a night guard with different materials, thicknesses, colors, and coverage (top or bottom teeth)
• Guarantees — Offers refunds, replacements, adjustments, or additional impression kits if you’re not satisfied
• Value for money ⁠— If you’re getting what you pay for considering the brand’s 
• User experience ⁠— How satisfied customers are with a brand’s products and services based on actual reviews

It cushions your teeth, making them less likely to loosen or break when hit. It also keeps your jaw stable so it doesn’t easily get dislocated or fractured.

A mouthguard also absorbs and redistributes shock while worn. It reduces the force dealt to your teeth and jaw, lowering your risk for head injuries.

To help you pick the best mouthguard for your smile, NewMouth’s dental experts have evaluated the top brands based on their comfort, protection, fit, and materials. We also researched user reviews on each brand.

5 Best Sports Mouthguards of 2024

We recommend choosing a mouthguard that perfectly fits your mouth. It must be made with FDA-approved materials to ensure your safety.

Other qualities to look for in a sports mouthguard include:

• High-impact energy absorption
• Securely stays in place while playing
• Comfortable even after hours of wearing
• Must be easy to clean

Shock Doctor Pro Mouth Guard

Best Overall (Editor's Pick)

Shock Doctor Pro Mouth Guard is a boil-and-bite option that provides essential protection and a comfortable fit. It’s a practical choice for athletes who want a balance of performance and value.

Why We Like It

• Suitable for all contact sports
• Multilayer design for better shock absorption
• Compatible with braces
• Easy to mold by boiling

What We Don’t Like

• Only comes in two sizes
• Doesn’t come with a case
• Too big for some people

Sporting Smiles Custom Clear Sports Mouth Guard

Best for Limited Contact Sports

Sporting Smiles Clear Mouth Guard is a cost-effective alternative to what you would typically get from a dentist. Measuring 3 mm in thickness, this custom-made mouthguard is comfortable and ideal for athletes who are into moderate-contact sports like basketball, baseball, and volleyball.

Why We Like It

• Molded to the shape of your teeth
• Made in the same labs as dental mouthguards
• At-home impression kit is delivered to you
• Free impression kit if you make a mistake
• Impression records are kept for future orders

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for direct and hard-impact sports
• Charges $15 for impression kits after the first replacement
• Getting your own impression can be difficult

Impact Mouthguard

Best for Full Contact Sports

Impact Mouthguards provide superior protection for athletes who engage in high-impact contact sports. Thanks to their shock-absorbing design, 6 to 7 mm thickness, and customized fit, they can effectively shield teeth and jaws while staying comfortable.

Why We Like It

• Ideal for combat sports like MMA and boxing
• Customized to fit your teeth and gums perfectly
• Breathable design that allows oxygen flow
• The company covers adjustment costs
• At-home impression kit is delivered to you
• Accepts molds taken by your dentist

What We Don’t Like

• Least affordable option
• Charges an extra $30 for your lower teeth
• Getting impressions can be difficult without professional help

AITUSI Kids Youth Mouth Guard for Sports

Best for Kid Athletes

AITUSI Kids Youth Mouth Guard is specifically designed for children athletes under 10 and between the ages of 10 and 15. It provides reliable protection by combining a durable dual-layer design with a comfortable fit.

Why We Like It

• Feels light and comfortable in the mouth
• Specifically made for young kids
• High-impact exterior with a soft interior
• Includes a plastic carrying case

What We Don’t Like

• Incompatible with braces
• May need to trim ends for a better fit

Shock Doctor Double Braces Mouthguard

Best for Braces

Shock Doctor’s Double Braces Mouthguard provides a comfortable and secure fit for athletes with braces. It even includes $35,000 worth of coverage for any dental injury you might sustain while wearing one.

Why We Like It

• Specifically designed for people with braces
• Protects the upper and lower teeth   
• Made with medical-grade silicone
• Has strapless and strapped designs

What We Don’t Like

• Ready-made (you can’t trim or boil for a better fit)
• Some children may find them too bulky
• May require an adjustment period

Choosing The Right Type of Sports Mouthguard

There are three types of mouthguards for sports:

1. Custom Mouthguards

Custom-made mouthguards are made in a dental office or lab. This is the best option for your mouth, but it’s also the most expensive.

To make the mouthguard, a dentist takes impressions of your teeth. This allows the mouthguard to fit perfectly in your mouth.

2. Boil-and-bite Mouthguards

A boil-and-bite mouthguard is self-adapting. You make it yourself by placing it in hot water to become more pliable. 

The mouthguard will adapt to your teeth from bite pressure and the manipulation of your tongue, fingers, and lips. 

Make sure to let it cool before placing it in your mouth.

3. Ready-made Mouthguard

A stock mouthguard is the easiest to buy. Most sporting goods stores sell them. However, they usually carry a limited range of sizes.

Ready-made mouthguards are also less comfortable and less effective because of their generic design, which may not fit your teeth and gums.

We suggest picking a mouthguard that fits your needs. However, you should still consult a dentist before using any dental product.

In this article, we'll explore the teething timeline, common signs, effective remedies, and when to seek professional advice.

How Long Does Teething Last?

Teething is a natural process that occurs when baby teeth start to break through the gums. Some babies are born with one visible tooth, while the rest are still developing under the gums.

Each tooth can erupt at different times, and the discomfort caused by erupting teeth usually lasts for 2 to 3 days. Teething only lasts until all of a child’s baby teeth have erupted, which can take up to 3 years.

Here’s an approximate timeline for teething:

Front Teeth

The lower front teeth are usually the first to erupt and occur around 6 to 10 months of age. Next, the top front teeth, or the top incisors, erupt at 8 to 12 months. 

These can overlap with the eruption of the bottom incisors. Then the top and bottom lateral incisors (the teeth next to the front teeth) usually erupt around 9 to 16 months.

Back Teeth

The first molars, or the back teeth, come when your baby is 13 to 19 months old. The canine teeth between the lateral incisors and the molars erupt shortly after that around 16 to 23 months.

By the time your child is 2 years old, their second molars will start to erupt. At this point, the teething process is complete. Most children will have a full set of 20 teeth at 3 years old.

What are the Common Signs of Teething?

When your baby starts teething they can exhibit some noticeable signs like:

• Fussiness
• More drooling 
• Poor sleeping patterns
• Sore or red gums around the erupting tooth
• Persistent chewing or gnawing on different objects

Fever, diarrhea, and rashes are not signs of teething. However, most parents mistakenly believe they are.

How to Help Your Child During Teething

Although teething is a natural process, it can be uncomfortable, and your child may need to start biting on something. Here are a few things you can do to help them:

• Give them a chilled teething ring or a cold washcloth to gnaw on.
• Gently massage their gums with a clean finger.
• Give them age-appropriate foods to eat.
• Applying a moist gauze pad on gums 

If your child seems to be experiencing intense discomfort, talk to your pediatrician about over-the-counter relief options. Pain medication is often unnecessary, so it should be a last resort. 

Tylenol or Advil is safe for babies over 6 months old. However, parents should give this for 1 or 2 days only. Frequent use of pain medication can lead to liver or kidney damage in babies.

Lastly, teething toys should be made of solid rubber or hard plastic. Avoid giving ones that are filled with liquid. If a child has sensory stimulation needs, ask their primary healthcare provider for safer options.

Teething Remedies to Avoid

Don’t freeze their teething rings or other objects. This can make them too hard and potentially damage your baby’s gums.

Avoid giving your child jewelry like necklaces or bracelets. These can lead to choking, strangulation, oral injury, or infection. Jewelry materials like metals, plastics, and wood aren’t safe for children either.

You should also avoid products like benzocaine or lidocaine. These products can cause methemoglobinemia, which is a potentially fatal condition in which the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen is significantly reduced.

Benzocaine and lidocaine are active ingredients in several over-the-counter (OTC) products like Anbesol, Baby Orajel, hurricaine, Orabase, and Cepacol. Additionally, benzocaine products can wash out a baby’s mouth, and lidocaine products may cause severe reactions in children.

When to Visit a Pediatric Dentist

You should see a pediatric dentist once you see your child’s first tooth, but not later than the baby’s first birthday. A dentist can make sure the teething process goes smoothly and that they have healthy teeth.

If a baby has diarrhea, rashes, or a high fever, an underlying condition may be causing their discomfort. A pediatric dentist may also recommend seeing a pediatrician. Fevers can indicate infections in the ear or urinary tract.

Teething is a normal part of a child's development, but it can be uncomfortable. By understanding the process, you can help your baby feel more at ease during this time. If you have any concerns, we recommend consulting with your pediatrician or a pediatric dentist for personalized guidance.

As one of the cheapest options for prosthetic teeth, flippers typically cost between $300 and $600. Other RPDs can cost significantly more than $600.

The price of flippers depends on the materials used, the number of teeth that need to be replaced, and the location of the missing teeth.

While flippers are cheaper upfront, their design makes them prone to damage over time. This can result in a considerable expense when future replacement costs are added.

What is a Flipper?

A flipper, also known as an acrylic removable partial denture (RPD), is a temporary fix for a missing tooth. It’s an acrylic retainer with one or more prosthetic teeth attached to it.

Flippers usually replace the front teeth, providing the appearance of a full smile. However, they can also restore missing teeth in the back of your mouth.

Types of flippers include:

• Spoon denture — An RPD without clasps, named for its spoonlike shape
• Flexible denture — Soft, clear dentures that let your gums show through
• Two-piece sectional denture — An RPD split into pieces to fit different parts of the mouth

A flipper is mainly supported by the frictional contact and surface tension between the acrylic base plate and gum tissue. However, the structure can be reinforced with fibers or metal wires for better support.

Who Needs a Flipper?

People who are missing adult teeth may benefit from a flipper. It can fill in the gap left by a missing tooth or a tooth root while waiting for an extraction.

A flipper preserves your remaining natural teeth and maintains the space between them. However, it is often used as a temporary solution until a more permanent prosthetic is ready.

Due to economic constraints, people often keep their acrylic RPDs longer than recommended. It’s a cheaper option than other dentures, making it a popular choice if you’re on a budget. However, it’s not always the perfect long-term solution. 

Pros and Cons of Dental Flippers

Dental flippers are one of the most common types of dentures available. However, this type of prosthesis comes with advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Dental Flippers

Aside from their affordability, flippers have many other advantages, including: 

• Easy to fabricate and fit — Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth, and a laboratory technician will make the custom appliance.
• Good esthetics — Flippers look natural and can complete your smile.
• Easy to wear and care for — It’s easy to insert and remove your flipper. It’s also easy to clean.
• Maintain the positions of the teeth temporarily — Flippers can stabilize your mouth and teeth while you wait for your permanent prosthetic.

Flippers are also one of the least invasive options for replacing missing teeth.

Disadvantages of Dental Flippers

Dental flippers are a great temporary solution for missing teeth. However, they have their drawbacks, which include:

• Increased risk of dental issues — Flippers can make you more likely to develop oral health problems like tooth decay and gum disease, especially if you don’t remove your flipper nightly. Some larger flippers that cover the back of the mouth can also trigger the gag reflex. 
• Low durability — The acrylic materials flippers are made of are less durable, which means they’re not ideal long-term solutions. They are also too weak to withstand heavy chewing forces. 
• Uncomfortable — Flippers aren’t always as comfortable as other permanent tooth replacements, such as implants. Because flippers have low durability, they may be bulkier in certain portions to prevent fracture, which can feel uncomfortable. 
• Potential allergies — You may be allergic to the materials used to make flippers. Always talk to your dentist about any past allergic reactions.
• Loosening over time — The fit of your flipper may grow looser or less accurate as time passes.

How to Take Care of a Flipper

Taking care of your flipper is easy as long as you keep up with its maintenance. It’s a lot like caring for any other retainer or prosthesis.

When you get your flipper, dentists advise against eating hard and chewy foods with your flipper, like:

• Raw vegetables, nuts, and seeds
• Tough meat
• Chips and pretzels
• Candies and gum

These foods can cause damage to the flipper’s acrylic base and prosthetic teeth. Dentists recommend eating only soft foods with a temporary denture, as these dentures can break easily.

Good oral hygiene is essential when you have any appliance, including a flipper. You must remove your flipper, then brush and floss as normal, and visit your dentist at least every 6 months. 

Cleaning Your Flipper 

Cleaning your flipper properly decreases the risk of developing plaque and denture biofilm. The fungus candida and bacteria can easily form on and underneath acrylic resin. Some respiratory pathogens have also been found on denture surfaces.

Dentists recommend using denture cleaners or mild dish soap with a denture toothbrush to clean your flipper daily.

You should also soak your dentures in water overnight. 

Alternative Treatment Options

A flipper isn’t your only option if you’re missing one or more teeth. Alternative treatments for missing teeth are:

Fixed Partial Dentures

A fixed partial denture (FPD), or dental bridge, is similar to an RPD, except it is permanently glued onto your teeth. Because it’s attached to your teeth, it can last longer than a flipper tooth.

It’s essential to have a healthy set of abutment teeth to which the denture can attach. Abutments can be natural teeth or implants. Good oral hygiene and healthy surrounding bone are also essential for the denture's success.

Dental Implants

Implants are excellent permanent restorations for missing teeth. Dental implants are surgically placed in your mouth. They act as artificial tooth roots attached to crowns.

Summary

A flipper is a temporary fix for a missing tooth. It’s an acrylic removable partial denture (RPD) that can help restore your smile.

While flippers are affordable, they aren’t ideal long-term solutions. Dentists typically use them as a temporary placeholder until they can install a permanent prosthetic.

Fixed partial dentures and implants are the most common alternatives to flippers.

A dry socket occurs when the blood clot around the extraction site fails to develop or becomes dislodged. This exposes the socket and the nerve endings to food and bacteria.

Let’s discuss what you can do to prevent dry sockets, methods a dentist would do, and the symptoms to watch out for in case you develop one.

Tips for Preventing a Dry Socket After A Tooth Extraction

After getting a tooth removed, you should be gentle with your mouth to give it the time it needs to heal properly. Here are a few things you can do to prevent a dry socket:

• Avoid forceful mouth movements — Don’t do anything that might dislodge the blood clot, such as using straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing.
• Proper oral hygiene — Be careful around the extraction site, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and avoid brushing directly over the area.
• Special rinse — Your doctor might recommend a special mouth rinse to keep things clean. You can also use salt water rinses to promote healing.
• Eat soft foods — Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the extraction site or dislodge the blood clot. Try yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes.
• Manage swelling and pain — Apply an ice pack to your face to reduce swelling, and take any prescribed pain medications as intended.
• At-home remedies — For pain relief, consider natural alternatives such as warm compresses, chamomile tea rinses, or clove oil.

What Do Dentists Use to Prevent a Dry Socket?

There are some standard practices dentists use to prevent the occurrence of a dry socket. They include:

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are an effective way to prevent postoperative complications like dry sockets. However, some studies suggest the risks of developing complications are too minimal to continue prescribing antibiotics.

Researchers are also concerned that taking antibiotics before tooth extractions might cause bacterial resistance.

Antiseptic Mouthwash

Using antiseptic mouthwash before a tooth extraction helps prevent dry socket. Betadine or povidone-iodine 1% mouthwash is especially beneficial for older people who are more at risk of developing dry socket. 

Betadine is a mixture of povidone and iodine which contains short-acting but wide-spectrum bactericidal effects. It also helps against sporicidal, fungicidal, and virucidal activity. Its effects also last longer than other antiseptics. 

However, it’s important to keep in mind that some people shouldn’t use Betadine, specifically:

• People with thyroid conditions
• Children under the age of 12
• People are allergic to povidone-iodine

Chlorhexidine

Chlorhexidine mouthwashes, gels, and sprays are antiseptic disinfectants that can help reduce bacteria in your mouth. It also helps with other conditions like:

• Mouth infections
• Mouth ulcers
• Gum disease
• Sore throat
• Gingivitis

Chlorhexidine mouthwashes or gels can be used by people 12 years or older. Common side effects include staining of the teeth and tongue, taste changes, and tartar formation. 

Platelet Rich Fibrin and Hyaluronic Acid

After tooth extraction, dentists sometimes apply platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and hyaluronic acid (HA) dressings to the socket. These can help promote blood clot formation.

PRF is a biomaterial prepared from a person’s blood. It’s taken before a tooth extraction. Dentists prepare it using a simple processing method.

HA naturally occurs in the body’s tissues. It’s also a critical component in cell migration and proliferation, ideal for wound healing.

The combination of PRF and HA has many advantages, including:

• Accelerated wound healing
• Reduced scar tissue
• Wound site protection
• Improved comfort

What are the Symptoms of Dry Socket?

People with dry sockets can’t prevent food particles or the tongue from stimulating the exposed bone. This causes frequent, acute pain.

Other symptoms you can watch out for include:

• Bad breath
• A foul taste in the mouth
• Dry and empty tooth socket
• Severe pain in the extraction site
• Discharge from the extraction site
• Excessive bleeding

People often describe dry socket pain as throbbing or radiating. It can also extend from the gums to the jaw and ear area. Some people describe the pain as similar to a toothache.

If you start to notice any of these symptoms, contact a dentist immediately. Treatment is essential to ease symptoms and encourage proper healing.  

Dry Socket Risk Factors

People are more likely to develop this condition if they:

• Smoke
• Had the condition before
• Experienced a difficult extraction
• Are menstruating
• Are taking oral contraceptive pills or menstrual hormones

While dry sockets can be a painful and uncomfortable complication following tooth extraction, understanding the risk factors, prevention techniques, and treatment options can help minimize the likelihood of experiencing this issue.

We also recommend following your dentist's instructions and maintaining proper oral hygiene for a smooth healing process.

Wound healing consists of four phases:

1. Hemostasis
2. Inflammation
3. Proliferation
4. Tissue remodeling

In the proliferation phase, cells begin regenerating strong tissue over the wound. It occurs a few hours to several days after the extraction. By this time, you can safely chew solid food.

However, dentists recommend taking small bites at a time until the extraction site has fully healed. This can take a couple of weeks. 

Foods to Eat After Tooth Extraction 

Dentists recommend eating soft foods and drinking liquids for at least 24 hours after tooth extraction. These include:

• Milk
• Yogurt
• Cereals
• Cheese
• Smooth soups
• Mashed potatoes
• Beans
• Fruit smoothies without using a straw
• Protein shakes

On the second day, you can eat easily chewable foods. These include:

• Soft-boiled, scrambled, and poached eggs
• Fish
• Bananas

Foods to Avoid After Tooth Extraction

Here are some foods to avoid after tooth extraction:

• Hard and crunchy foods
• Foods that require a straw to eat
• Tough cuts of meat
• Alcoholic beverages

What Else to Avoid After Tooth Extraction

You should also avoid the following after tooth extraction:

• Applying heat on the face because it can increase swelling 
• Smoking, using straws, or sucking on anything. These actions can dislodge the blood clot keeping the wound closed
• Blowing the nose and sneezing with the mouth closed. Instead, wipe your nose and sneeze with your mouth open
• Spitting for 24 hours after the procedure. However, you can brush your teeth as long as you avoid your extraction socket
• Rinsing your mouth 24 hours after the procedure, which will help start the healing process

After a day, you can gently rinse with warm salt water after meals to remove any food that may have entered the socket and to speed up the healing process. The dentist may also prescribe Peridex mouthwash.

Types of Tooth Extraction

Tooth extractions are either simple or surgical. 

Dentists only perform simple tooth extractions on fully erupted teeth. You may need this procedure if your teeth are:

• Cracked or fractured
• Untreatable with cavity fillings or root canals
• Overcrowded 
• Causing soft tissue trauma to the cheek

Surgical tooth extractions require making an incision in the gums and removing bone to extract the teeth. You may need this procedure if you:

• Have an impacted wisdom tooth
• Have a fractured tooth that is inaccessible without removing bone

Dentists also consider the sedation you prefer before proceeding with the extraction. Options include:

• Local anesthesia
• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
• Twilight anesthesia (sedative medications)
• General anesthesia (administered intravenously)

Tooth Extraction Recovery 

Simple tooth extractions have a quicker recovery time than surgical extractions. You will likely need a day or two of rest until you can resume normal daily activities.

If you undergo surgical extractions with sedation, you need another person to drive you home. General and twilight anesthesia can make you too groggy to drive or move around safely. 

Timeline

Bleeding should only occur during the first 12 to 24 hours after the extraction. Dentists recommend biting on the gauze they put in your mouth post-op for at least 1 to 3 hours.

Swelling can increase over the next 2 to 3 days after tooth extractions. However, it should gradually decrease from there. Contact your dentist if the swelling persists or worsens.

Dentists recommend applying an ice pack on the cheek of the affected tooth immediately after the procedure. Keep the pack on for 15 minutes with a 15-minute break. This can reduce swelling.

You can resume light activities at least a day after the procedure. However, you’ll need to wait a week or two before doing physically demanding activities.

Potential Risks

Severe complications after teeth extractions might include:

• Prickling sensation in the face (paresthesia)
• Excessive postoperative bleeding
• Jaw bone necrosis (death of the bone due to lack of blood)
• Dry socket

Summary

During the first 24 hours after tooth extraction, you can only eat soft foods and drink liquids without a straw. This helps you avoid any problems and complications after the procedure. 

If the extraction site doesn’t heal within a month, contact your dentist.

In this article, we'll discuss more about teeth whitening swabs, exploring their pros and cons, how they work, and the alternatives available.

What Are Teeth Whitening Swabs?

Teeth whitening swabs are convenient whitening products that you can leave on. Unlike other whitening products, they’re designed to produce immediate results.

Regular teeth whitening gels are usually thick, making it harder for them to penetrate the teeth’s enamel. This is why manufacturers typically tell people to leave the gel on for a long time. 

However, swabs have a thinner consistency. They can also create a thin layer of active chemicals on the tooth surface so people can safely leave them on after application.

How Much Do Whitening Swabs Cost?

Swabs can cost anywhere from $50 to over $100. Some companies sell their products in packs to accommodate a week’s worth of use. 

What are the Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening Swabs?

It’s normal for a product to have a 3 to 10% concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. So, compared to in-office treatments, these products have a lower potential for whitening.

The success of a product’s bleaching process depends on the type of stain on the teeth. Studies show that at-home products can whiten teeth, but the bleaching process carries risks that could compromise a person’s dental health. 

We recommend talking to a dentist about these risks. Other pros and cons include:

How Do Teeth Whitening Swabs Work?

Like other whitening treatments, swabs contain hydrogen or carbamide peroxide. Both can lift stains from the tooth enamel.

Swabs work by causing a chemical reaction in the teeth to oxidize intrinsic stains and internalized discoloration. This creates a teeth-whitening system capable of removing extrinsic and internalized stains. 

Whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide have molecules that break down chromogen bonds. This chemical reaction produces molecules that reflect less light, giving the teeth a brighter appearance.

Keep in mind that different areas of the stain can respond differently to whitening agents. This impacts the effectiveness of chemical whiteners, like teeth-whitening swabs.

What are the Types of Teeth Stains?

The three types of stains are extrinsic, intrinsic, and internalized discoloration. Intrinsic stains occur when there’s a structural change in the composition of dental tissue. This is typically caused by:

• Medical treatments
• Metabolic disorders
• Diseases
• Dental trauma

Extrinsic stains happen when chromogen compounds stick to the surface of natural teeth. Chromogens cause discoloration by reducing the enamel’s natural white coloring. 

Direct stains are caused by tea, coffee, wine, tobacco, dental plaque, and calculus. Meanwhile, indirect stains are the result of colorless compounds having a chemical reaction on the tooth’s surface. Substances like cetylpyridinium chloride or chlorhexidine mouthwash, medications like tetracycline, and overexposure to fluoride cause this.

Lastly, internalized discoloration is caused by extrinsic stains entering the dentin. These stains usually enter the area through defects, like cracks or holes on the tooth’s surface.

Alternatives to Teeth Whitening

There are several teeth whitening products available, including alternatives to whitening swabs. Some alternative treatment options are:

• Professional whitening
• Whitening strips
• LED whitening kits
• Whitening toothpaste
• Whitening mouthwash 
• Teeth whitening trays and gels

Remember, consulting your dentist is crucial before starting any teeth whitening treatment. They can assess your oral health, provide personalized recommendations, and ensure you achieve a healthy and radiant smile safely.

• Gum cancer forms when cells in the gums grow out of control, forming lesions or tumors. I
• The symptoms of gum cancer include but are not limited to, rough or crusty spots on the gums, loose teeth, and bleeding along the gums.
• Gum cancer can often be confused with other common problems like gingivitis, lip sores, or dry patches on the inside of the mouth. 
• If your dentist sees possible symptoms of gum cancer, they will follow up with preliminary tests or refer you to an oral cancer specialist. Treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.

What is Gum Cancer?

Gum cancer is a type of mouth or oral cancer. It forms when cells in the gums grow out of control, forming lesions or tumors.

Oral cancer is in the category of head and neck cancers, and doctors treat them similarly. Lesions, growths, and tumors in the mouth characterize oral cancer. They can occur on the:

• Lips
• Tongue
• Gums
• Cheek lining
• The mouth's roof or floor

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Gum Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Prevention

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What are the Symptoms of Gum Cancer?

Oral cancer has symptoms similar to other common and less severe problems. Rough or dry patches on the gums or inside of the mouth may be signs of precancerous conditions. Gum cancer is commonly mistaken for gingivitis. 

Other symptoms of gum (and mouth) cancer include:

• Rough spots and crusty areas on the gums
• Loose teeth
• Bleeding along the gums
• Sores and lesions on the gums that don’t heal
• Difficulty chewing and swallowing
• Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue
• Speech problems
• Weight loss
• Earache
• Chronic bad breath
• Erythroleukoplakia (red and white patches)
• Erythroplakia (raised red and white patches that easily bleed)
• Leukoplakia (flat white or gray patches in your mouth)
• Pain, numbness, and tenderness inside your mouth, on your face, or around your neck
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Chronic hoarse voice

What Does Gum Cancer Look Like?

Gum cancer typically looks like:

• Red or white patches lining the gums
• A growth or lump in the mouth or gums
• Loose teeth
• Mouth sores that easily bleed and don’t heal properly
• Chronic bad breath
• Crusty spots and rough areas on the gums
• Lesions on the tongue, soft palate, or lining of the mouth

The Oral Cancer Foundation (OCF) provides photos of gum cancer on its website.

Risk Factors for Gum Cancer and Other Oral Cancers

The National Cancer Institute (NCI), Cleveland Clinic, and American Cancer Society (ACS) report on the risk factors for oral cancer. 

About three out of four people who develop gum cancer and other mouth cancers practice one or more of the following habits:¹

• Smoke cigarettes, cigars, or pipes
• Use smokeless tobacco products, like chewing tobacco, snuff, dip, or hookah
• Regularly drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
• Spend a lot of time in direct sunlight without lip protection 

People who have human papillomavirus (HPV) and/or a family history of mouth cancer are also more prone to developing gum and other mouth cancers

Who Does Oral Cancer Affect?

Men are at higher risk of developing oral cancer compared to women. Light-skinned people are slightly more likely to develop oral cancer than dark-skinned people.²

According to one study:²

• About 1 in 60 men have a lifetime risk of developing oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer
• The same is true for 1 in 140 women
• The average age physicians diagnose oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer is 63

How Does Oral Cancer Affect the Body?

Mouth cancer may affect your oral cavity and your oropharynx. Your oropharynx consists of parts of the tongue, the roof of the mouth, the area behind your wisdom teeth, and the part of the throat that is visible when the mouth is wide open. 

Oropharyngeal cancer (throat cancer) is cancer in your oropharynx and can occur concurrently with mouth cancer. Oral cancer can be confused with other common problems like gingivitis, lip sores, or dry patches on the inside of the mouth. 

Gum and other types of oral cancer can spread to other parts of the body, including the:

• Lips
• Cheek lining
• Tongue
• Head
• Neck

Oral cancer causes the cells of the affected area to grow and multiply. It can cause:

• Lesions
• Rough patches
• Discomfort
• Pain

It is best to diagnose and treat oral cancer early. This is essential to stop cancerous cells from growing. It also allows doctors to perform any other necessary treatments before the problem worsens.

How is Gum Cancer Diagnosed?

Dentists usually identify gum cancer through an oral cancer exam. If they spot a potential symptom or early sign of oral cavity cancer, they will follow up with preliminary tests or refer you to an oral cancer specialist. 

Oral cancer specialists include: 

• Oral surgeons
• Maxillofacial surgeons
• Head and neck surgeons

These specialists are commonly known as ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeons. The next step after the oral cancer exam is conducting tests to determine if it is mouth cancer. 

These tests include:

Physical Examination

Your doctor will examine the entirety of your oral cavity and may feel around your mouth. They will also examine your head, face, and neck for any warning signs of oral cancer.

Brush Biopsy

A brush biopsy is also known as a scrape biopsy or exfoliative cytology. Doctors use a tool to scrape mouth areas to test cells for cancer.

Incisional Biopsy

Like a brush biopsy, the doctor removes pieces of cells to test for cancer. However, they use an incision tool rather than a scraping tool.

Indirect Laryngoscopy and Pharyngoscopy

The doctor uses a tool with a small mirror on one end to visibly examine the throat, the base of the tongue, and the larynx.

Direct (Flexible) Pharyngoscopy and Laryngoscopy

The doctor uses an endoscope to look at other areas of the mouth and throat that aren’t visible with a mirror. An endoscope has a small lens with a light attached to a thin pole. This can detect oral cancer. 

How is Gum Cancer Treated? 

Physicians advise early oral cavity cancer treatment for best outcomes. Gum cancer and other mouth cancers have three main treatment options:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy

The best treatment for oral cancer depends on your health, age, preference, risk factors, stage and type of cancer, and whether or not it has spread to other parts of the body. Therefore, treatment options vary.

Some treatments for oral cancer include:

• Primary tumor surgery — removal of the tumor through your oral cavity or an incision in the neck via neck surgery.
• Glossectomy — partial or total removal of the tongue.
• Mandibulectomy — surgery for oral cancer in your jaw.
• Neck dissection — removal of lymph nodes from the neck.
• Maxillectomy — removal of all or part of the bony roof of the mouth, also known as the hard palate.
• Reconstruction — surgeons perform reconstruction after removing large pieces of tissue. Reconstruction surgery fills in the spaces left by other surgeries.

Chemotherapy

This treatment involves anti-cancer drugs that target and kill cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy

Beams of radiation energy target cancer cells to kill them or halt any additional oral cancer growth. Physicians may combine radiation therapy with other cancer treatment options.

Targeted Therapy

Drugs and other substances can precisely identify and kill specific types of cancer cells without harming normal cells.

Monoclonal antibodies are an example of targeted cancer treatment therapy. These antibodies are immune system proteins that help treat oral cancers.

Immunotherapy

Also called biological therapy, immunotherapy supports your immune system to fight oral cancer.

Gum Cancer Prevention Tips

To help prevent oral cancer:

• Use sunscreen, especially on your lips
• Stop smoking tobacco or using smokeless tobacco products; if you cannot stop, try to cut back or speak to your doctor about ways to quit
• Drink alcohol in moderation; talk to your doctor about ways to cut back if you experience difficulty in doing so
• Get the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Schedule routine dental exams; regular exams will help you and your doctor detect oral cancer early

What Causes Gum Cancer?

Gum cancer and other mouth cancers begin in the squamous cells of the oral cavity. Squamous cells are flat cells that look like fish scales under a microscope.

Like other cancers, squamous cells become cancerous when their DNA alters. These squamous cells begin to grow and multiply out of control. 

As oral cancer progresses, the cancerous squamous cells may spread to other areas of the mouth, head, neck, or other body parts.