Night Guard FAQ’s

Do I Need a Night Guard?

If you wake up with jaw pain or headaches or notice your teeth looking worn down, you might be dealing with teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism. You are not alone. Millions of people grind their teeth while they sleep without even knowing it. A night guard can be a simple and effective way to protect your smile and reduce discomfort caused by this common issue.

Dentists often recommend night guards to help manage nighttime teeth grinding, clenching, and symptoms of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. These oral appliances work by creating a soft or firm barrier between your upper and lower teeth, helping to reduce pressure, absorb impact, and prevent damage over time. Whether you are just starting to notice signs of wear or have already been diagnosed with TMJ, a night guard may be a smart part of your care plan.

We built Best Night Guard to help you cut through the noise and figure out what works. Not all night guards are the same, and not everyone needs a custom-fitted solution from the start. That is why our guides break down the differences, explain what to expect, and help you decide which type of night guard might be right for your situation.

Our goal is simple: to help you sleep better, protect your teeth, and avoid unnecessary costs. From boil-and-bite mouthguards to professionally made custom night guards, we cover it all so you can make informed choices with confidence.

If you're unsure where to start, begin by learning the basics. Your night guard is not just a piece of plastic. It is a step toward long-term dental health, better sleep, and pain-free mornings. Let’s help you find the right one.

What Is a Night Guard and Who Needs One?

A night guard is a protective dental device worn while you sleep. Its main purpose is to prevent your teeth from grinding or clenching against each other. This condition, known as bruxism, can happen without you even realizing it. Over time, grinding your teeth can cause damage to your enamel, jaw pain, headaches, and even long-term issues with your bite or jaw joint.

A night guard creates a physical barrier between your upper and lower teeth. By doing so, it cushions the pressure from clenching and reduces the wear and tear that naturally occurs from grinding. Depending on the type, a night guard can be soft and flexible, or firm and more structured. Some are custom-made by dentists, while others are over-the-counter options that you can shape at home using hot water.

If you have ever woken up with sore jaw muscles or felt tension around your temples, a night guard might be worth considering. It is not just for people who know they grind their teeth. Many people with stress-related habits, misaligned bites, or certain sleep disorders also benefit from wearing one.

Also Read: Types of Night Guards

Who Needs a Night Guard?

Night guards are commonly recommended for a few groups of people.

1. People with Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching):

This is the most obvious group. If you grind your teeth while sleeping, even occasionally, your dentist might notice signs like flattened chewing surfaces, small cracks, or increased tooth sensitivity. A night guard for grinding can slow or even prevent that damage.

2. Individuals with TMJ Disorders:

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. When this joint becomes irritated or overworked, it can lead to popping, jaw pain, limited movement, or headaches. A TMJ guard can help reduce strain on this joint by keeping the bite in a neutral, relaxed position.

3. People with Chronic Jaw or Face Pain:

Even if you have not been diagnosed with TMJ, recurring tension in your jaw, temples, or even neck can be a sign that you are clenching at night. Wearing a night guard can help relax the muscles around your jaw and may reduce pain over time.

4. Athletes with High-Stress Lifestyles:

Stress does not just affect your mood. It can also lead to unconscious habits like clenching your teeth while you sleep. Individuals under constant pressure, whether from work, school, or athletic competition, may benefit from a night guard, even if they do not yet exhibit visible signs of grinding.

5. Children and Teens (in Some Cases):

Kids can also grind their teeth, especially during growth spurts or times of stress. While many outgrow it, pediatric dentists sometimes recommend soft night guards for short-term use to prevent damage to developing teeth.

What Night Guards Do

A night guard does not stop you from grinding your teeth. Instead, it reduces the damage caused by grinding. Think of it as a cushion. When your jaw clenches, the guard absorbs and distributes the pressure, which protects your enamel and reduces stress on your joints. Over time, consistent use may help alleviate symptoms such as soreness, headaches, or interrupted sleep.

Night guards also promote awareness. Once you start using one, you may become more conscious of your grinding or clenching habits. That awareness alone can help people manage their stress or make lifestyle changes that reduce the severity of their symptoms.

Types of Night Guards

There are three main types of night guards, and the one you choose depends on your symptoms, budget, and preferences.

1. Over-the-Counter Night Guards

These are pre-formed or “boil-and-bite” models. You soften them in hot water and mold them to your teeth at home. They are affordable and easy to find but may not offer a perfect fit.

2. Custom Night Guards

Made by a dentist or dental lab, these guards use a mold of your teeth to create a snug, precise fit. Custom night guards are typically more durable and comfortable, especially for individuals with moderate to severe grinding or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.

3. Dual-Laminate or Hybrid Guards

These combine a soft inner layer with a hard outer shell. They are a good middle ground for people who need comfort and durability. Many people with TMJ pain choose this option for its balance of cushion and protection.

Do You Need One?

Not everyone needs a night guard, but if you are experiencing signs of grinding, jaw pain, or discomfort in the morning, it is worth exploring. The earlier you address the issue, the easier it is to prevent long-term damage. You can start with a basic over-the-counter model or speak with a dentist about whether a custom solution would be a better fit.

Ultimately, a night guard is about protection. It gives your teeth and jaw a break while you sleep. Whether you are dealing with grinding, clenching, or TMJ discomfort, finding the right night guard can make a big difference in your comfort, your dental health, and how well you sleep at night.

Also Read: Custom vs OTC Night Guards: Are Dentist-Made Guards Worth It?

What Type of Night Guard Do You Need?

Hard vs. Soft vs. Custom vs. Over-the-Counter

Once you decide that a night guard could help protect your teeth or ease TMJ symptoms, the next step is choosing the right type. Not all night guards are created equal. Each type serves a different purpose depending on your level of grinding, jaw pressure, and budget.

In this guide, we will break down the main types of night guards available, including soft night guards, hard night guards, custom night guards, and hybrid options. We will also go over whether an over-the-counter (OTC) night guard can do the job or if you need something professionally made.

Let’s explore your options and help you make a smart, informed decision.

Soft Night Guard

A soft night guard is typically made from a flexible plastic or rubber-like material. These guards are often the first option for people who are new to grinding or who clench occasionally.

Who is it for?

• Light to moderate teeth grinders

• People with occasional jaw tension

• Those who prefer comfort over structure

Pros:

• Comfortable and easy to wear

• Affordable

• Easier to get used to

Cons:

• Wears out faster than harder guards

• May not hold up to heavy grinding

• Can encourage more chewing or clenching in some users

Bottom line:
If you are new to night guards or experience only light grinding, a soft night guard can be a good place to start. It is also a popular option for people who want something gentle or have a smaller budget.

Hard Night Guard

A hard night guard is usually made from a durable acrylic material. It is rigid, less flexible, and often used for more severe cases of teeth grinding or TMJ-related problems.

Who is it for?

• Moderate to heavy grinders

• Individuals with TMJ symptoms

• People who need long-term protection

Pros:

• Extremely durable

• Provides strong protection

• Helps align your bite in some cases

Cons:

• Takes more time to adjust to

• Can feel bulky

• Usually requires a custom fit

Bottom line:
Hard night guards are ideal for people who need serious protection. If you wake up with jaw pain or if your dentist has noticed signs of heavy wear, this type of guard is worth considering, especially in a custom-fit version.

Custom Night Guard

A custom night guard is made specifically for your mouth using an impression of your teeth. Dentists typically offer this service, though some reputable companies provide mail-in impression kits.

Who is it for?

• Anyone looking for the best fit and performance

• People with specific dental needs or bite alignment issues

• Long-term users

Pros:

• Made to match your bite exactly

• More comfortable over time

• Better at staying in place during sleep

Cons:

• More expensive

• Requires time for molding and delivery

• Must be replaced if your dental situation changes

Bottom line:
A custom night guard is often considered the gold standard. It may cost more upfront, but the added comfort and protection often make it worth it, especially for those with ongoing issues like TMJ pain or significant grinding.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Night Guard

Over-the-counter night guards are available in stores or online and come in either a one-size-fits-all format or boil-and-bite style. The boil-and-bite type allows you to soften the guard in hot water and then bite into it to create a semi-custom fit.

Who is it for?

• First-time users

• Mild grinders

• Budget-conscious shoppers

Pros:

• Inexpensive and widely available

• Easy to replace

• No dental appointment required

Cons:

• May not fit well

• Can feel bulky or loose

• Less durable

Bottom line:
If you want to test the waters without a big commitment, an OTC night guard is a simple way to start. Just know that the fit and comfort may not be ideal, and you may need to upgrade down the line.

Hybrid or Dual-Laminate Night Guard

A hybrid night guard, also called a dual-laminate night guard, features a soft inner layer and a hard outer shell. This design combines the comfort of a soft guard with the durability of a hard one.

Who is it for?

• Moderate grinders

• TMJ sufferers who need comfort and strength

• People who clench and grind

Pros:

• Comfortable against teeth

• Strong enough for moderate grinding

• Longer lifespan than soft-only guards

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than soft guards

• May still be too bulky for some users

• Custom versions are often better than OTC

Bottom line:
The hybrid night guard offers a great middle ground. It is especially popular among people who want protection without giving up comfort. If you grind but also need something gentle on your teeth or gums, this type is worth looking into.

How to Choose the Right Type

Choosing the right night guard depends on your specific needs. Here are a few simple questions to guide you:

• Do you grind lightly or heavily?

• Have you been diagnosed with TMJ or do you feel jaw tension in the morning?

• Are you looking for short-term relief or a long-term solution?

• Is your budget a major factor right now?

Here is a quick breakdown:

When to Upgrade

If you started with an over-the-counter night guard and are still experiencing symptoms like jaw pain, morning headaches, or sensitive teeth, it might be time to upgrade to a custom solution. Worn-down or poorly fitting night guards do not offer full protection and may even make things worse over time.

Also, if your guard becomes discolored, starts to smell, or feels different in your mouth, those are signs it needs to be replaced, especially with soft night guards, which tend to wear down faster.

Finding the right night guard is not just about comfort. It is about preventing long-term damage to your teeth and protecting your jaw health. Whether you go with a soft night guard, a hard acrylic model, or a custom night guard made just for your bite, the goal is the same: to help you sleep better and wake up without pain.

At Best Night Guard, we are here to help you compare options, understand what works, and avoid costly mistakes. No sales pitches, just straightforward info so you can choose a night guard that fits your life and your needs.

Night Guard Fit and Comfort: What to Expect and How to Fix It

Wearing a night guard for the first time can feel strange. It is something new in your mouth, and like anything unfamiliar, it may take time to get used to. But if your night guard hurts or feels too tight, that could be a sign that something is not right. Fit and comfort are critical for a night guard to work correctly. Let’s walk through what a good fit should feel like, common issues, and how to adjust your night guard so you can sleep comfortably and wake up pain-free.

How Should a Night Guard Fit?

A well-fitting night guard should feel snug but not painful. It should rest on your teeth without shifting, pinching your gums, or creating pressure points. You should be able to close your mouth naturally and breathe through your nose or mouth without effort.

If you are using a custom night guard, the fit should be precise. These are molded to your teeth and typically sit on either your upper or lower arch, not both. A custom fit reduces the chance of soreness, rubbing, or bite alignment issues.

If you are using a boil-and-bite night guard, the fit depends on how well you followed the instructions during molding. These can sometimes be too bulky or uneven, especially if the material was not softened enough or was bitten down on too hard.

 Also Read: Best Night Guards for TMJ: What Actually Helps?

Common Fit Issues and What They Mean

1. Tight Night Guard:
If your night guard feels too tight, especially when first inserting it, give it a few nights. Some pressure is normal as your teeth adjust. However, if it causes lingering soreness, it may be too small or was not molded properly. For over-the-counter guards, remolding it may help. For custom guards, consult the provider about adjustments.

2. Night Guard Hurts Jaw or Teeth:
Pain is not normal. If your night guard creates pressure in certain spots, causes jaw stiffness, or triggers tooth pain, stop using it and reassess the fit. A guard that is too hard, too thick, or misaligned with your bite can worsen TMJ symptoms instead of helping them.

3. Gag Reflex or Bulkiness:
Some night guards, especially generic ones, are bulky and extend too far back in the mouth. If you gag or find it uncomfortable to swallow, trimming the back edges slightly (if safe and allowed by the product) may help. A custom night guard typically avoids this problem by fitting more closely and avoiding excess material.

4. Slipping or Falling Out at Night:
If your night guard does not stay in place, it is likely too loose. This can happen with boil-and-bite guards if the material was not molded firmly enough or has lost shape over time. Custom guards almost never have this problem if they were made from accurate dental impressions.

Tips for Improving Comfort

Break It In Slowly:
Give your mouth a few nights to adjust. Start by wearing the night guard for an hour before bed, then sleep with it for longer periods as it becomes more comfortable.

Check for Rough Edges:
Run your tongue around the night guard. If you feel sharp or uneven areas, light sanding with an emery board (for soft guards) may help smooth them out. Do not overdo it.

Store It Properly:
Always rinse your night guard after use and store it in a ventilated case. Heat can warp some guards, especially soft and hybrid models, so avoid hot water and direct sunlight.

Talk to Your Dentist If Needed:
If your night guard still hurts after several nights or you notice new pain or alignment issues, consult a dental professional. Small adjustments can make a big difference, and in some cases, a new impression or refit is necessary.

Your night guard should never be a source of pain. It is there to protect your teeth, reduce jaw tension, and help you sleep better. If your night guard hurts, feels too tight, or causes discomfort, do not ignore it. Understanding how a night guard should fit and knowing how to fix common issues can make all the difference. A small adjustment today can lead to better nights, healthier mornings, and long-term protection for your smile.

Night Guards for Specific Conditions: TMJ, Clenching, Sleep Apnea, and Braces

Night guards are often seen as a one-size-fits-all solution, but in reality, different conditions call for different approaches. If you are dealing with TMJ pain, nightly clenching, sleep apnea, or even wear braces, a night guard can help—but only if you choose the right type for your situation. This guide breaks down how night guards work for each of these conditions and what you should consider before picking one.

Night Guard for TMJ

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. TMJ disorders can lead to pain, clicking sounds, stiffness, and headaches. These issues often stem from jaw misalignment, grinding, or tension in the surrounding muscles.

A night guard for TMJ is designed to reduce stress on the jaw joint by helping to reposition the bite and relax the muscles. These guards are typically more rigid and may be custom-fitted to ensure the bite stays in a stable, neutral position while you sleep.

Key Features to Look For:

• Custom-fit design to avoid uneven pressure
• Durable material that supports jaw alignment
• Flat surface to minimize muscle activity

Important Note:
If you have severe TMJ symptoms, a night guard can help, but it should not be the only solution. It is best to work with a dentist or TMJ specialist to build a care plan that may include therapy, bite adjustments, or lifestyle changes in addition to wearing a guard.

Night Guard for Clenching

Many people clench their jaw during the day or while sleeping without realizing it. Clenching may not create the grinding noise that bruxism is known for, but it still puts major pressure on your teeth and jaw muscles. Over time, this can lead to worn enamel, cracked teeth, and facial soreness.

A night guard for clenching acts as a cushion between the upper and lower teeth. Unlike grinding, which involves motion, clenching is more about sustained pressure. A soft or dual-laminate guard is often recommended because it absorbs force without being overly rigid.

Best Options for Clenching:

• Soft night guards for light to moderate clenching
• Hybrid guards (soft inside, hard outside) for stronger jaw pressure
• Custom guards for a snug fit that stays in place all night

Clenching Tip:
Stress is one of the most common causes of clenching. While a night guard can protect your teeth, managing stress during the day and practicing jaw relaxation techniques can help reduce symptoms at night.

Night Guard and Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when the airway becomes blocked, often due to the position of the tongue or jaw.

A traditional night guard is not a treatment for sleep apnea. However, specialized oral appliances designed for sleep apnea can look similar to night guards. These devices, often called mandibular advancement devices (MADs), move the lower jaw slightly forward to keep the airway open.

Do Not Confuse the Two:

• A night guard for grinding or TMJ protects teeth and reduces muscle strain
• A sleep apnea mouthpiece is designed to improve airflow and reduce snoring

What You Should Do:
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, do not use a night guard without first seeing a sleep specialist. Wearing the wrong type of appliance may make symptoms worse. If you already have a diagnosis, your doctor or dentist may recommend a specific oral device tailored for apnea management.

Also Read: How to Clean and Care for Your Night Guard 

Night Guard for Braces

Can you wear a night guard if you have braces? The short answer is yes, but it needs to be designed specifically for your situation. Braces add complexity to your bite and tooth alignment, so a standard night guard will not work properly and may interfere with treatment.

A night guard for braces must accommodate the brackets and wires while still providing protection. In many cases, orthodontists may provide a custom-made guard or advise on a guard that works alongside braces without damaging them.

When It’s Recommended:

• If you are grinding or clenching with braces
• If your braces are causing irritation or inner cheek biting
• During the final stages of treatment to protect teeth

What to Avoid:
Over-the-counter night guards rarely fit well over braces and can apply unwanted pressure to the teeth, potentially undoing the work of your orthodontic treatment. A boil-and-bite style is typically not suitable either. Go custom if possible.

Tip:
Once your braces are removed, you may still need to wear a night guard to protect your straightened teeth, especially if you continue to grind or clench. Many people use a guard that doubles as a retainer.

Can a Night Guard Help with Multiple Conditions?

Yes. Many people deal with more than one issue, like TMJ and clenching, or bruxism and orthodontics. A well-designed night guard can often cover multiple needs, especially when it is custom-fitted. The key is working with a professional who can design a solution based on your bite, dental history, and symptoms.

For example:

• A dual-laminate guard can help with both TMJ and clenching.
• A custom-fitted TMJ guard may also reduce nighttime grinding.
• A soft night guard designed for comfort may ease tension during orthodontic treatment.

Your condition matters when choosing a night guard. Whether you are managing TMJ pain, chronic clenching, orthodontic care, or even sleep apnea, there is no one-size-fits-all option. What works for a light grinder will not work for someone with severe TMJ, and someone with braces cannot use the same guard as someone with no dental hardware.

Always consider your specific needs before buying a night guard. When in doubt, consult your dentist or medical provider. With the right fit and purpose, your night guard can become one of the most effective tools in your nighttime care routine, reducing pain, protecting your smile, and helping you get a better night’s rest.

Night Guard Cleaning and Replacement: What to Know and What to Avoid

A night guard is an investment in your oral health. But like anything that sits in your mouth for hours each night, it needs proper care to stay effective and safe. If you are not cleaning it the right way or replacing it when needed, you could be doing more harm than good. In this guide, we will cover how to clean your night guard, how often to replace it, and what common mistakes to avoid.

How to Clean a Night Guard Properly

Keeping your night guard clean is the first step in making it last longer and preventing bacteria buildup. A dirty guard can lead to bad breath, gum irritation, and even illness if left unchecked. Luckily, cleaning a night guard does not take much time.

Daily Cleaning Steps:

1. Rinse Right Away:
   Each morning, rinse your night guard under cool or lukewarm water. This helps remove saliva and debris before it hardens.
2. Brush Gently:
   Use a soft toothbrush (not the one you brush your teeth with) and gently scrub the night guard. Avoid toothpaste, which can be abrasive and cause surface damage over time.
3. Use a Mild Soap:
   A gentle, unscented dish soap or castile soap works well. Avoid anything with strong chemicals, fragrances, or alcohol. Lather the soap on the brush and clean both the inside and outside of the guard.
4. Air Dry Completely:
   Place your guard on a clean surface or in a well-ventilated case and allow it to air dry fully before storing it. Moisture invites bacteria and mold, so never store your guard while it is still wet.

Weekly Deep Cleaning Tips

Even if you clean your night guard daily, a deeper clean once a week is a smart habit. This helps remove buildup you cannot see.

Options for Weekly Cleaning:

• Soak in a mix of water and white vinegar (equal parts) for 30 minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
• Use denture cleaning tablets in a glass of water to remove stains and odors.
• Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or mouthwash with alcohol, which can degrade the material.

 Also Read: Night Guard Cost Breakdown: How Much Should You Pay?

What Not to Do When Cleaning Your Night Guard

Some common mistakes can actually damage your guard or introduce harmful bacteria.

Avoid the following:

• No boiling water: High temperatures can warp the plastic and ruin the fit.
• No dishwashers: Even the top rack is too hot and will likely damage the guard.
• No toothpaste: Most toothpaste contains abrasives that scratch the surface and create areas where bacteria can hide.
• No alcohol-based products: These can dry out or crack the guard over time.

How to Store Your Night Guard

Proper storage is just as important as cleaning. After it is dry, place your guard in a ventilated case that allows air to flow. Avoid airtight containers, as they can trap moisture and lead to mold on the guard.

Keep the case clean by washing it weekly with soap and water. Also, avoid leaving your night guard in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as heat can damage its shape.

How Often Should You Replace Your Night Guard?

Even with great care, night guards do not last forever. The material wears down with nightly use, and over time, it may not provide the protection you need.

General replacement timeline:

• Soft night guards: Typically last 6 months to 1 year
• Hard night guards: Can last 1 to 3 years, depending on grinding severity
• Hybrid guards (soft inside, hard outside): Usually last 1 to 2 years

If your guard cracks, feels loose, or no longer fits properly, it is time to replace it. Grinding patterns can also change, especially if you have had dental work done, which means a new guard might be necessary even if the old one looks okay.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Night Guard

• You see cracks or thinning spots
• It starts to feel loose or fall out during sleep
• You notice a persistent bad odor or taste
• There is visible discoloration or mold, even after cleaning
• It feels different in your mouth or affects your bite

Mold on guard? Do not try to salvage it. If you spot mold or black spots on your night guard, it is safest to discard it. Mold can be harmful to your health and is hard to remove completely once it sets in.

 Also Read: How Should a Night Guard Fit?

Can You Use the Same Night Guard Forever?

No. Even high-quality custom night guards have a lifespan. Wearing the same guard for years without checking its condition puts your oral health at risk. A worn-down night guard does not offer enough protection and could contribute to further grinding or jaw discomfort.

Helpful Tip: If you use a custom night guard, check with your dentist every 6 to 12 months to make sure it still fits your bite and provides the right level of support.

Keeping your night guard clean and replacing it when necessary are simple habits that can save you money, protect your teeth, and improve your sleep. Whether you use a soft night guard or a hard custom one, daily care goes a long way.

Remember: rinse it every morning, clean it gently, let it dry, and store it in a clean, breathable case. Do not wait for cracks or mold to show up before getting a new one. Treat your night guard like the health tool it is, and it will serve you well.

Buying a Night Guard: Cost, Options, and Where to Get One

Buying a night guard can feel overwhelming at first. There are a lot of options, a wide price range, and a lot of unfamiliar terms custom-fit, boil-and-bite, dental night guard, and more. If you are wondering how much a night guard costs or whether it is better to buy one from a dentist or online, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Whether you are dealing with teeth grinding, clenching, or TMJ pain, the goal is the same: protect your teeth and reduce discomfort while you sleep. But how much should you really be paying for that peace of mind?

Night Guard Cost: What to Expect

Night guard prices vary widely depending on the type, material, and where you get it. Below is a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay.

1. Over-the-Counter Night Guard

Cost Range: $15 to $50
These are the most affordable options and can be found at most drugstores or online. Over-the-counter night guards come in one-size-fits-all versions or as boil-and-bite models that you can mold at home.

Best for:

• Light grinders
• First-time users
• Budget shoppers

What you get:
A quick, inexpensive option that offers basic protection. These guards are often soft and bulky and may wear out quickly. The fit is usually less secure compared to custom options, but for occasional use, they can work just fine.

2. Online Custom Night Guard

Cost Range: $75 to $200
Online companies offer mail-in impression kits that allow you to take a mold of your teeth at home. Once you return the mold, they create a custom-fitted guard and ship it to you.

Best for:

• Moderate grinders
• People who want a better fit without visiting a dentist
• Anyone looking for long-term comfort at a lower price point than in-office options

What you get:
A custom-fit dental night guard for about half the price of what you would pay at a dentist. The materials used are often similar or identical to those used in dental offices, and the process is relatively straightforward.

3. Dental Night Guard (In-Office)

Cost Range: $300 to $800
A dentist-made night guard is the most personalized option. The dentist will take a professional impression of your teeth and bite alignment, then send it to a lab to fabricate a high-quality, durable night guard.

Best for:

• Severe grinders
• TMJ sufferers
• People with complex dental work or alignment issues

What you get:
You are paying for precision and professional guidance. A dental night guard offers the highest quality fit, comfort, and durability, but it comes with a steep price tag. Insurance may cover part of the cost, depending on your plan.

 Also Read: Night Guard for Clenching vs Grinding

Where to Buy a Night Guard

There are three main ways to purchase a night guard, each with its own pros and cons.

Pharmacies and Drugstores

Most drugstores carry basic over-the-counter mouth guards. These are typically boil-and-bite or one-size options and are best for short-term or occasional use.

Pros:

• Low cost
• Easy to find
• Immediate access

Cons:

• Poor fit
• Can be bulky or uncomfortable
• Less durable

Online Retailers and Specialty Websites

Online custom night guard services have grown in popularity for a good reason. They offer professional-quality guards at lower prices than in-office options. These companies mail you an impression kit and provide customer support to help you complete the process at home.

Pros:

• Mid-range price
• Custom fit without dental visits
• Convenient ordering and delivery

Cons:

• No in-person guidance
• Turnaround time can be one to two weeks
• Fit depends on how well you take the impression

Dentist Offices

Getting a dental night guard from your provider offers the most customized option available. Your dentist knows your bite, alignment, and oral history, and can adjust the night guard to match your needs.

Pros:

• Professionally made
• High-quality material
• Personalized fit and follow-up care

Cons:

• Expensive
• Not always fully covered by insurance
• Requires multiple appointments

Should You Choose a Dentist or Online?

The decision ultimately comes down to your symptoms, budget, and the level of support you desire throughout the process.

Choose an over-the-counter night guard if:

• You are new to night guards and want to test one out
• You only grind occasionally or during times of stress
• You need a quick and affordable solution

Choose an online custom night guard if:

• You want a better fit and more comfort without spending hundreds
• You grind or clench frequently but do not have severe jaw issues
• You are comfortable taking your own impressions with guidance

Choose a dentist-made night guard if:

• You have TMJ, bite alignment problems, or dental work that needs consideration
• You are a heavy grinder and need maximum durability
• You want ongoing care or adjustments from a professional

Also Read: Can a Night Guard Help with Snoring or Sleep Apnea?

Is a Night Guard Worth the Cost?

If you grind or clench regularly, the cost of a night guard is far less than what you might spend fixing damaged teeth. Cracked enamel, worn fillings, or broken crowns can lead to thousands of dollars in dental repairs. A well-fitted mouth guard acts like insurance for your smile, protecting your teeth while you sleep.

Even if you start with a basic night guard, the protection it offers is worth far more than the upfront price. If you notice improvements in sleep quality, reduced jaw pain, or fewer morning headaches, the night guard is doing its job.

The best night guard is the one that fits your needs, budget, and mouth. From low-cost boil-and-bite models to premium dentist-made guards, there is an option out there for everyone. Consider how often you grind, how severe your symptoms are, and how long you want your guard to last.

If you are just starting out, a basic over-the-counter night guard can be a great first step. If you are looking for long-term comfort and better fit, online custom guards or dental night guards are worth the extra cost. Whatever route you take, investing in a night guard is a smart move for your health, your teeth, and your peace of mind.

How to Store a Night Guard at Home

Proper storage is essential for extending the life of your night guard and keeping it free from bacteria, mold, and odors. A poorly stored guard can become a breeding ground for germs, and that is the last thing you want to put in your mouth every night.

Rinse and Dry Every Morning

As soon as you remove your night guard in the morning, rinse it under cool or lukewarm water to remove saliva and debris. Then gently dry it with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Letting it air-dry is best. Place it on a clean surface and allow it to dry completely before storing it. Moisture is the number one cause of mold growth on mouth guards, so never put a wet or damp guard into a closed container.

Use a Vented Storage Case

The best way to store a night guard is in a ventilated case made specifically for mouth guards or retainers. These cases have small holes or slits that allow airflow, which helps prevent the growth of bacteria and keeps the material from breaking down.

Look for a BPA free night guard case or storage box. Some cheaper plastics can leach harmful chemicals when exposed to moisture or heat. A BPA free case ensures a safer long-term storage solution, especially for guards that are worn nightly.

What to Avoid in Night Guard Storage

Some common habits can shorten the lifespan of your guard or even make it unsafe to use. Here are a few things to steer clear of:

• Do not store in a closed, airtight container while wet. This traps moisture and leads to bacterial growth.
• Do not expose your night guard to direct sunlight. UV rays and heat can warp or degrade the plastic.
• Do not store near heat sources. A mouth guard can lose its shape if it gets too warm.
• Do not wrap it in a tissue or napkin. It is easy to accidentally throw it away, and it offers no protection from germs.

How to Travel With Your Night Guard

Whether you are going on a weekend trip or a long vacation, your night guard should always go with you. Grinding and clenching do not take time off, and skipping even a few nights can undo some of the progress you have made.

Use a Travel Case

A durable travel case is essential. Look for one that is:

• Vented: So your mouth guard can breathe and stay dry
• Hard-sided: To protect it from getting crushed in your bag
• Easy to clean: Cases should be washed weekly with soap and water

Some people keep a second case for travel so they never have to unpack and repack their home setup. This is also a smart idea if you use a backup night guard just for travel.

Keep It With You, Not in Checked Bags

If you are flying, keep your night guard in your carry-on bag. Checked luggage can be delayed or lost, and you do not want to go days without your mouth guard. Keep it in a case that you can easily reach and store it near your toothbrush so you do not forget to use it.

Dry It Before You Pack It

After your morning routine, make sure the guard is fully dry before putting it in your travel case. This simple step will reduce odor and help maintain the quality of the material.

 Also Read: Custom vs. Boil-and-Bite Night Guards

Choosing Safe Materials: BPA Free and Non-Toxic

Not all night guards are made the same. The materials used can vary depending on where you buy it and how it was manufactured. When shopping for a mouth guard, always check if it is BPA free, especially if it is made from soft plastic or silicone.

BPA (bisphenol A) is a chemical used in certain plastics. While it has been banned in baby bottles and some food containers, it is still used in some cheap plastics. When heated or exposed to saliva over time, BPA can break down and enter your system.

How to Know If Your Mouth Guard Is BPA Free

• Read the packaging or product page for material details
• Look for phrases like “BPA free,” “latex free,” or “medical-grade plastic”
• If in doubt, contact the manufacturer directly

Safe options include:

• Custom dental night guards from reputable labs
• Medical-grade thermoplastic
• Dual-laminate guards from known dental suppliers

Avoid guards that do not list their materials. It is not worth the risk to your health.

Cleaning While Traveling

You may not have access to your full cleaning routine while on the go, but that does not mean you can skip care.

Simple travel-friendly cleaning tips:

• Bring a separate toothbrush to clean your night guard
• Use mild soap and rinse with bottled or tap water
• Pack denture-cleaning tablets for weekly deep cleaning
• Always dry it before storing it back in the case

If your mouth guard starts to smell or feel sticky, give it a thorough cleaning as soon as you return home.

Your night guard is more than just a piece of plastic. It is a health tool designed to protect your teeth, reduce jaw pain, and help you sleep better. Treating it with care, especially while storing it or traveling, will extend its life and keep you safer in the long run.

Always rinse, dry, and store your night guard in a ventilated, BPA free case. When traveling, pack it with your essentials, keep it clean, and never store it wet. These small habits go a long way toward keeping your night guard in top shape—and your smile protected.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right night guard does not have to be confusing. Whether you are dealing with teeth grinding, TMJ discomfort, or jaw clenching, taking the time to choose the right fit can make a big difference in your comfort, sleep quality, and long-term dental health. Now that you know the basics, you are one step closer to protecting your smile and waking up pain-free.

Still unsure which type is right for you? Take our quick and easy Best Night Guard Finder to find out which guard fits your needs. It only takes a minute and can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Want to make your current night guard last longer? Be sure to download our free Night Guard Care Checklist. It includes dentist-backed cleaning tips, storage advice, and signs to watch for when it is time to replace your guard.

Start today with the right knowledge and tools. Your teeth and your sleep are worth it.

✅ [Take the Best Night Guard Finder]
📥 [Download Night Guard Care Checklist]

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