When it comes to oral health, custom dental trays like night guards and bleach trays can help, but they serve very different purposes. This guide explains what each one does, how they’re made, what to expect at your appointments, and how to take care of them.
A night guard is a custom-made tray you wear while sleeping to protect your teeth from clenching or grinding (a condition called bruxism). If left untreated, this habit can cause:
- Worn or cracked teeth
- Jaw pain or headaches
- Damage to fillings or crowns
- TMJ (jaw joint) issues
Night guards are made from durable plastic. They act like a cushion for your teeth, reducing pressure and keeping your jaw safe overnight.
A bleach tray is a custom tray used for teeth whitening. It holds a special whitening gel (usually made with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) close to your teeth to remove stains and brighten your smile.
Bleach trays are thinner and softer than night guards. They’re used for short periods over several days or weeks, depending on how white you want your teeth to be.
What Happens During the Appointments?
Night Guard
Consultation: Your dentist will check your teeth and gums to determine if a night guard is appropriate for you. If you have jaw pain or tension headaches, they may recommend having one custom-made by a dental lab.
Impressions or Digital Scan: If the night guard is to be made by a dental lab, a digital scanner will be used to capture a 3D model of your teeth and gums. This is sent to a dental lab to make your custom-fit night guard.
In some cases, the night guard may be made directly in our clinic using traditional mold materials and on-site lab techniques.
A fee may apply if the night guard is made by the dental lab.
Fitting: Once your night guard is ready, your dentist will make sure it fits comfortably and adjusts it if needed.
Bleach Trays
Impressions: A dental assistant takes a mold of your teeth using soft putty-like material.
Fitting and Instructions: About one week later, you’ll try on the trays to check the fit. The assistant will show you how to apply the whitening gel and explain how often to use it.
Can You Use a Night Guard as a Bleach Tray?
No. Night guards are too thick and won’t hold the whitening gel properly. This can cause uneven whitening and gum irritation. On other hand, bleach trays are not strong enough to handle teeth grinding or clenching.
Caring for Your Appliance
Night Guard:
- Rinse with cool water after use
- Brush with a soft toothbrush (don’t use toothpaste)
- Clean weekly with special night guard cleaning tablets
- Store in a dry, ventilated case
Bleach Tray:
- Rinse immediately after use
- Never use hot water (it can warp the tray)
- Clean gently with mild soap and water
- Store in a clean, dry container