NTI® (nociceptive trigeminal inhibition) devices and night guards are dental devices used to treat jaw pain and teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Bruxism is a common condition that affects people of all ages and can cause various dental problems, including tooth wear, jaw pain, headaches, and even sleep disruption.
Incorporating either of these devices into a treatment plan for a patient with jaw pain or bruxism can help provide relief and protect their teeth from further damage. But because NTI® devices and night guards offer different approaches to treating these conditions, you should understand their differences before deciding which one is best for your patient.
NTI® devices and night guards serve a similar purpose, which is to protect the teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching. However, their approaches in achieving this goal are different.
The NTI® device is primarily used for teeth grinding (bruxism), clenching, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), with the goal of preventing tooth wear and alleviating associated discomfort, such as headaches and jaw pain. It works by preventing tooth contact on the back teeth, which reduces the intensity of grinding and clenching. The device focuses on reducing muscle tension and nerve activity linked to bruxism by inhibiting the trigeminal nerve, hence the name nociceptive trigeminal inhibition.
Typically used for general teeth grinding and jaw clenching, a night guard helps protect the teeth from wear and damage. It provides a cushioning barrier between the upper and lower teeth, which prevents direct contact and shields tooth surfaces from excessive grinding forces. While it may not reduce the intensity of bruxism, it protects the teeth from the damage caused by grinding.
The design of NTI® devices and night guards is a major distinguishing factor between the two options. You can easily differentiate between the two by looking at their appearance and how they fit in the mouth.
The NTI® is small and discreet in design. It usually covers just the two upper front teeth or, occasionally, the lower front teeth. It prevents the molars from coming into contact with one another, which reduces the intensity of grinding and clenching. Made from hard acrylic material, you can custom-fit it to your patient's mouth so that it sits comfortably and securely in place.
Night guards cover all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, and some models may fit over both jaws. They're bulkier and more noticeable than NTI® devices due to their larger coverage area.
You can find night guards made from a wide array of materials. There are soft, hard, and dual-layer types, and which one is best for your client depends on the severity of their condition. Soft ones are for mild cases, while hard night guards are for severe grinding and clenching. Dual-layer night guards are a combination of both, with the inner layer soft and the outer layer hard, and they're best for moderate cases of bruxism.
What's most important for your patient? Do they have chronic pain as a result of bruxism, or are they worried about protecting their teeth from wear and damage? Understanding the scope of treatment your patient needs can help you choose between an NTI® device and a night guard.
An NTI® device is effective for bruxism-related headaches and jaw pain because it reduces muscle contraction and nerve activity. Most patients using one for bruxism or TMJ disorders only wear it for a few hours overnight; it offers short-term relief but not a lasting solution to their condition. Many patients with NTI® devices use them alongside physical therapy or medication to help manage their pain.
A night guard protects teeth from damage caused by grinding. Patients can wear one regularly for long-term management of their bruxism.
Night guards don't directly address the pain or muscle tension associated with bruxism, so they may not provide relief for patients who experience chronic pain as a result of their condition. But using a night guard can prevent further damage and protect the teeth from wear.
Patients want to feel comfortable while they sleep. An uncomfortable device can disrupt their sleep or even cause more discomfort and difficulty in falling asleep. NTI® devices and night guards have different designs that can affect their comfort and wearability.
An NTI® device can be less comfortable for some people because it limits the ability to close the mouth completely and may feel intrusive at first, especially with the smaller fit. It's meant for night wear only.
A night guard is more comfortable because it covers a broader area and feels more natural. Patients can wear it throughout the night but also for naps if they want to.
How effective are NTI® devices vs. night guards in treating bruxism? Both devices provide benefits for patients, but their effectiveness varies depending on the individual's condition and treatment goals.
NTI® devices are highly effective for treating bruxism-related headaches, facial pain, and jaw discomfort. They work by relaxing the muscles involved in grinding, but they may not be as effective at protecting teeth from grinding, as they focus on reducing the grinding force rather than fully cushioning the teeth.
A night guard is effective in protecting teeth from wear, chipping, and cracking caused by grinding, but it may not address underlying muscle tension or headache symptoms as effectively as the NTI® device. It can reduce the frequency and intensity of bruxism, but it doesn't directly inhibit nerve activity like the NTI® device.
Many patients are concerned about the cost and availability of dental devices. Understanding the differences in cost and availability between NTI® devices and night guards can help you make a decision that's effective, affordable, and as hassle-free as possible for your patient.
An NTI® device is usually more expensive than a standard night guard due to its specialized design and fitting process. It also requires a dentist visit for proper fitting since it's custom-made.
Generally, night guards are less expensive and more widely available than NTI® devices. There are both pre-made, commercially available and custom-made versions of this device. Custom-made night guards, though more expensive compared to store-bought versions, provide far greater benefits in terms of comfort, durability, and effectiveness.
NTI® devices and night guards, while very different devices, can both be beneficial additions to the treatment plan of a patient with bruxism. When recommending a device for your patients, consider the severity of their bruxism, their treatment goals, and factors like comfort and cost. Ultimately, the best device is one that effectively helps your patient manage their condition and protect their teeth from further damage.
If you decide a night guard is the right choice for your patient, DDS Labs can create a high-quality, custom night guard made just for them. Send us their case, and the professionals from our state-of-the-art labs will work with you to create a durable, comfortable device that fits snugly in your patient's mouth and effectively protects their teeth. With a reliable partner like DDS Labs, you can provide your patients with the best possible care and treatment for their bruxism.