Unbiased oral health information

Procedures

Occlusal guards

Consumer information

Occlusal guards
Relative cost of procedure ($ - $$$$$)
Relative cost of procedure ($-$$$$$)
$$$ (for lab-fabricated thermally processed acrylic guard. Can vary widely based on material and other factors.)
Time commitment (average)
Time commitment (average)
2 visits; 15 to 30 minutes to make impressions + 15 to 30 minutes to deliver. Possible additional adjustment appointments, which are generally short.
Temporary discomfort potential
Temporary discomfort potential
Generally, occlusal guards are prescribed to help alleviate pain in the jaw muscles and joints
Cosmetic results (how it looks)
Cosmetic results (how it looks)
Poor
Wear properties
Wear properties
Occlusal guards protect the teeth and dental restorations against excessive wear.
Irreversible pulpitis/infection potential
Irreversible pulpitis/infection potential
None to low
Fracture resistance
Fracture resistance
Excellent
Tooth reduction (amount required)
Tooth reduction (amount required)
None
Corrosion, metal sensitivity/allergy potential
Corrosion, metal sensitivity/allergy potential
None. However, if metal is used to fabricate them, allergies to the metal have been reported.
Soft tissue irritation potential
Soft tissue irritation potential
None to low