What’s the Difference Between Soft and Hard Night Guards?
If you’re dealing with teeth grinding, clenching, or TMJ discomfort, you’ve probably heard about night guards. But choosing the right type can be confusing, especially when it comes to understanding the difference between soft night guards and hard night guards.
This guide breaks down the two most common types of night guards, allowing you to make a confident decision based on your specific needs. We will look at materials, durability, comfort, cost, and the most common use cases for each type.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or considering switching from one guard to another, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is a Soft Night Guard?
A soft night guard is typically made from flexible, rubber-like plastics. These materials are designed to cushion your teeth, absorbing pressure from grinding or clenching.
They are often used for mild bruxism (teeth grinding) or occasional clenching. Most over-the-counter night guards you find at drugstores fall into this category, though you can also get custom soft night guards from your dentist or online providers.
Features of Soft Night Guards:
- Made of pliable, BPA-free plastic
- Comfortable and easy to get used to
- Usually used for mild grinding
- More affordable than hard guards
- Often boil-and-bite or stock-fit
Soft guards are also popular among people who are just starting treatment. If you’re not sure how often you grind or whether a guard will work for you, a soft night guard is a low-risk way to try one out.
What Is a Hard Night Guard?
A hard night guard is made from firm acrylic or a dual-laminate material that includes a hard outer shell. These guards are used for moderate to severe teeth grinding or for those who have been diagnosed with TMJ disorders.
Unlike soft guards, hard night guards are almost always custom-made using a dental impression. This allows the guard to fit your bite exactly and provide better protection and alignment support.
Features of Hard Night Guards:
- Made from durable acrylic or dual-layer plastic
- Custom fit to your bite for better comfort
- Designed for heavy grinding and TMJ
- Can last several years with proper care
- Can be adjusted or repaired by your dentist
If you grind your teeth every night or experience jaw pain, popping, or locking, a hard night guard is typically the better long-term solution.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Soft vs. Hard Night Guards
Let’s break down the core differences between soft night guards and hard night guards to help you decide.
| Feature | Soft Night Guard | Hard Night Guard |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Flexible thermoplastic | Hard acrylic or dual-laminate |
| Comfort | Softer feel, easier to adjust to | Firm fit, may take longer to adjust |
| Durability | Wears down faster | Lasts longer (1 to 5 years) |
| Fit | Loose or semi-fitted | Custom fit (precise) |
| Use Case | Mild grinding or clenching | Moderate to severe grinding or TMJ |
| Cost | Lower cost (especially OTC) | Higher cost, especially from dentist |
| Maintenance | Easier to damage or distort | More resistant to wear and tear |
Also Read These Articles:
- Best Material For Your Jaw Behavior
- Durability By Material Type
- Cost By Material Type
- Material-Specific Cleaning Advice
Which One Is More Comfortable?
Comfort is subjective, but in general:
- A soft night guard feels more like a sports mouthguard. If you’re new to wearing something in your mouth at night, this may be easier to tolerate at first.
- A hard night guard feels more rigid, but it stays in place better and may offer more relief over time for chronic issues.
People with sensitive teeth or gums often prefer soft guards initially. However, they may switch to a hard guard once they’re more comfortable with the sensation of wearing something overnight.
Which One Lasts Longer?
Hard night guards win when it comes to durability.
A typical soft night guard may last 6 months to 1 year depending on how aggressively you grind your teeth. In contrast, a well-made hard night guard can last 2 to 5 years with proper care.
Soft guards can also lose their shape or get bite marks more easily, which may affect how well they work. If you grind heavily, you may go through soft guards faster than expected.
Which Type Works Best for TMJ?
Hard night guards are usually the better option for TMJ-related problems.
That’s because TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders often involve more than just grinding. You may be dealing with bite misalignment, joint inflammation, or muscle fatigue. A hard night guard offers more structural support and can be designed to reposition the jaw slightly, something a soft guard cannot do.
If your dentist suspects TMJ, they may recommend a stabilization splint or bite guard, both of which fall into the hard night guard category.
Which One Is Easier to Get?
If you’re looking for a quick and affordable solution, soft night guards are more widely available. You can walk into most pharmacies or order one online and have it the next day.
Hard night guards take more time. You usually need to:
- Take an impression of your teeth (either at a dentist’s office or with a home kit)
- Wait for the lab to create your custom guard (usually 1 to 2 weeks)
- Try it on and potentially have it adjusted
While hard guards require more time and cost upfront, they offer a better long-term solution if you grind or clench consistently.
Who Should Choose a Soft Night Guard?
A soft night guard is a good fit for:
- People with mild or occasional grinding
- First-time users who want to try a night guard
- Budget-conscious users who want something quick
- People who prefer a more cushioned feel
These guards can also serve as a temporary solution while you wait for a custom hard guard to be made.
Who Should Choose a Hard Night Guard?
A hard night guard is recommended if:
- You have been diagnosed with moderate or severe bruxism
- You experience TMJ symptoms (jaw pain, clicking, popping)
- Your teeth show significant wear
- You grind every night and want something that lasts
- You want a night guard that fits precisely and doesn’t move around
What About Dual-Laminate Night Guards?
Some night guards are made from dual-laminate materials, which combine the comfort of a soft inner layer with the strength of a hard outer shell.
These guards are often considered the best of both worlds. They are softer against the teeth and gums but strong enough to resist heavy grinding. Many people with moderate bruxism find this hybrid style to be the most comfortable and effective.
Dual-laminate guards are usually custom-made, making them more expensive than soft boil-and-bite options.
Price Comparison
Here is a rough guide to what you can expect to pay:
- Soft OTC night guard: $10 to $50
- Custom soft night guard (online): $100 to $150
- Custom hard night guard (online): $150 to $200
- Custom hard night guard (from dentist): $300 to $800+
Your dental insurance may cover part of the cost, especially if you are diagnosed with bruxism or TMJ. Always check before paying out of pocket.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Type of Night Guard
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right night guard depends on your comfort level, grinding severity, and long-term goals.
- If you are new to night guards and want to try something simple, a soft night guard can be a great starting point.
- If you grind every night or have jaw pain, a hard night guard may be worth the investment.
- For something in between, consider a dual-laminate guard for comfort and strength.
The key is not just wearing a night guard, but wearing the right one.
Take the Next Step
Not sure which type is right for you? Try our Best Night Guard Finder Tool to get a personalized recommendation in under 60 seconds.
Or download our free Night Guard Care Checklist to learn how to keep your guard clean, effective, and long-lasting.