NTI Device vs. Mouthguards: Which is Better for Headaches?
July 29, 2024 9:00 amHeadaches can be a real pain, literally and figuratively. If you find yourself frequently battling headaches, your dental health might hold the key to relief. At Lefler Dental in Hot Springs Village, AR, we offer innovative solutions like the NTI device and traditional mouthguards to help prevent headaches. But which one is right for you? Let’s break down the benefits of each.
What is an NTI Device?
The NTI (Nociceptive Trigeminal Inhibition) device is a small, custom-fitted dental appliance designed to prevent headaches and migraines caused by teeth grinding and jaw clenching. It works by covering only your front teeth, reducing the intensity of the clenching and preventing the back teeth from touching. This helps to relax the jaw muscles and reduce the strain that leads to headaches.
Benefits of NTI Devices
Effective Headache Prevention: NTI devices are specifically designed to prevent tension headaches and migraines by minimizing jaw clenching.
Comfortable Fit: Because the NTI device is smaller and covers fewer teeth than traditional mouthguards, many patients find it more comfortable to wear, especially at night.
Easy to Use: Simply pop it in before bed, and let it do the work while you sleep.
Traditional Mouthguards
Traditional mouthguards, also known as night guards, are designed to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching (bruxism). They cover all of your teeth and provide a barrier between your upper and lower teeth to prevent damage and reduce muscle tension.
Benefits of Traditional Mouthguards
Full Protection: Traditional mouthguards protect all of your teeth from the wear and tear caused by grinding.
Versatile Use: They can be used for both sports-related protection and nighttime grinding.
Durable: Made from strong materials, traditional mouthguards are built to last and provide comprehensive protection.
Which is Better for You?
Choosing between an NTI device and a traditional mouthguard depends on your specific needs and the nature of your headaches.
For Severe Clenching and Migraines: If your primary concern is preventing severe headaches or migraines, an NTI device might be the better choice due to its targeted approach to reducing clenching intensity.
For Teeth Protection and General Use: If you need comprehensive protection for your teeth from grinding and clenching, and you’re looking for versatility, a traditional mouthguard might be more suitable.
Headache Treatment at Lefler Dental in Hot Springs Village, AR
At Lefler Dental, we understand that each patient is unique. Dr. Thomas Lefler and Dr. Josie Goodman are here to help you determine the best solution for your headache prevention and dental protection needs. Schedule a consultation today to discuss whether an NTI device or a traditional mouthguard is right for you. Let us help you find relief and protect your smile!
Image by krakenimages.com on FreepikCategorised in: Custom Mouthguards, Migraines