Best Night Guards for Teeth Grinding: Expert Picks and Guide
Wake up free of jaw pain and tooth wear with a personalized, comfortable dental shield.
Best Night Guards for Teeth Grinding: Expert Picks and Buying Guide
Millions of people worldwide experience teeth grinding and jaw clenching, commonly known as bruxism. If left untreated, bruxism can cause tooth damage, jaw pain, headaches, and disrupt sleep. Choosing the right night guard can help protect your teeth and bring relief. This comprehensive guide covers the best night guard options, expert advice, buying tips, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
Why Do You Need a Night Guard?
Night guards act as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. Wearing one while sleeping absorbs the force of grinding or clenching and helps:
- Prevent tooth wear, cracks, and enamel loss
- Reduce jaw pain and tension
- Prevent TMJ disorders and headaches
- Improve quality of sleep
Night guards are recommended for anyone diagnosed with bruxism or who suspects nighttime teeth grinding. Dentists often suggest a custom-fitted night guard for optimal protection and comfort, but good over-the-counter options are available for mild cases.
Our Top Picks: Best Night Guards for Teeth Grinding
Experts and dentists agree that the best night guard balances durability, comfort, and fit. Below are top-rated products recommended for a range of needs and budgets.
| Product | Best For | Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro Teeth Guard Hybrid Night Guard | Moderate to heavy grinding | Custom-fitted | Soft inner lining, durable exterior, 60-day trial, 1-year warranty |
| Smile Brilliant Night Guard | Heavy grinding, reorders | Custom-fitted | Digital impression storage, multiple package options, 45-day trial |
| JS Dental Lab Hard Shield | Severe bruxism, dental implants | Custom-fitted | Flexible thermoplastic, 3mm thick, compatible with dentures |
| Remi Custom Night Guard | Affordability, convenience | Custom-fitted | Thin design, at-home fitting, 45-night guarantee, HSA/FSA accepted |
| Dental Duty | Mild grinding, budget-friendly | Boil-and-bite | Easy at-home molding, BPA-free, multipurpose use |
| Plackers Grind No More | Temporary/travel use | Disposable | One-size-fits-all, ready to use, affordable |
Pro Teeth Guard Hybrid Night Guard
Pro Teeth Guard consistently earns praise for its quality materials and truly custom fit, made possible by an at-home impression kit and processing at a professional dental lab. Its hybrid model features a soft inner layer for comfort and a sturdy outer layer to withstand grinding, ideal for those with moderate to heavy bruxism. Buyers benefit from a 60-day trial and a generous 110% money-back guarantee, plus a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Both HSA and FSA are accepted for purchase. Men’s and women’s styles are available.
Pros: Exceptional comfort and fit, customization, warranty
Cons: Higher price, wait time for custom fabrication
Smile Brilliant Night Guard
The Smile Brilliant Night Guard offers durability with a soft, custom fit. Its digital impression keep allows for fast, affordable reorders and is particularly useful for those who need replacements due to heavier grinding. Each guard is 2mm thick, built to handle months of nightly use. Customers receive an impression kit at home, send it back, and the lab crafts their guard. Smile Brilliant offers a 45-day trial, HSA/FSA payment options, and volume discounts.
Pros: Easy reorders, custom fit, risk-free trial
Cons: Initial impression required, premium pricing
JS Dental Lab Hard Shield
JS Dental Lab Hard Shield is designed for severe bruxism. The guard uses a thick 3mm layer of flexible thermoplastic, providing maximum durability and protection. Unique among custom guards, it can be worn with dentures or implants, addressing the needs of more complex cases.
Pros: Extremely durable, compatible with dental work
Cons: May feel bulkier, higher cost
What others are reading
Remi Custom Night Guard
Remi combines dentist-level quality with online convenience and affordability. Customers receive an at-home impression kit, send their mold back, and receive two custom night guards for the price of one. The guards are thin and lightweight, suitable for those who dislike bulky dental devices. The brand offers a 45-night fit guarantee, accepts HSA/FSA, and provides free shipping.
Pros: Cost-effective, lightweight, try-before-you-commit
Cons: May not suit very severe grinders
Dental Duty Night Guard
For those who want a quick solution, Dental Duty offers a boil-and-bite night guard that can be molded at home. While not as long-lasting or precise as custom guards, it is both affordable and versatile, even doubling as a sports mouthguard or teeth whitening tray. The BPA-free, medical-grade material ensures safety at a low cost.
Pros: Inexpensive, easy to fit, multipurpose
Cons: Less comfort and precision, less durability
Plackers Grind No More
If you need a night guard for travel or occasional use, Plackers Grind No More is the go-to option. These one-size-fits-most, disposable guards require no molding and can be used right out of the box. Each guard lasts up to three nights and is designed for convenience rather than long-term protection.
Pros: Highly convenient, disposable, low-cost
Cons: Not for everyday use, may not fit everyone
How to Choose the Best Night Guard
Selecting the right night guard depends on several factors, including the severity of your bruxism, jaw shape, budget, and personal comfort preferences. Consider the following:
- Type: Custom-fitted guards (from dental labs or online providers) offer the best protection and fit but are pricier. Boil-and-bite and disposable guards are more economical for mild or occasional use.
- Thickness: Thicker guards provide more protection for severe grinding; thinner guards are more comfortable for light grinders.
- Material: Look for guards made of FDA-approved, BPA-free, medical-grade materials.
- Warranty & Trial: Many top brands offer satisfaction guarantees or free adjustments for extra peace of mind.
- Payment Options: Some brands accept HSA/FSA for added affordability.
Types of Night Guards
- Custom-Fitted Guards: Created from a dental impression of your teeth, these offer the best comfort and protection. They’re available from dentists and reputable online providers.
- Boil-and-Bite Guards: Moldable at home via hot water; offer a semi-custom fit. Affordable and quick.
- Disposable Guards: One-size-fits-many models for short-term or travel use; require no molding.
Signs You Need a Night Guard
- Waking up with sore or stiff jaw muscles
- Tooth sensitivity or pain
- Clicking or popping in jaw joints
- Visible tooth wear, flatness, cracks, or chips
- Frequent headaches, especially in the morning
If you experience these symptoms, consult your dentist for evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations.
How to Care for Your Night Guard
Proper cleaning and maintenance help maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of your night guard:
- Rinse with cool water after each use
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush (no toothpaste, as it may scratch)
- Clean occasionally with mild soap or specialized effervescent tablets
- Store dry in a ventilated container
- Avoid exposure to heat or boiling water outside of fitting
Replace your night guard as recommended to keep it hygienic and effective. Custom guards often last a year or more, while boil-and-bite and disposable models may need replacement more frequently.
Expert Tips for Using a Night Guard
- Gradual Adjustment: It’s normal to need a few nights to get accustomed to wearing a night guard. Persistence pays off!
- Bring Your Guard to Dental Checkups: Allow your dentist to assess fit and wear to catch any issues early.
- Address Underlying Causes: Stress management, jaw exercises, and treating sleep disorders can further relieve bruxism.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is bruxism, and how do I know if I have it?
Bruxism is the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth, usually during sleep. Signs include morning jaw pain, sensitive teeth, headaches, worn or cracked teeth, and sometimes audible grinding noises noticed by a sleep partner.
Do I need a dentist-made guard, or can I buy one online?
Dental professionals recommend custom-fitted night guards for moderate to severe bruxism. Online providers now offer dentist-quality custom guards at reduced cost. For occasional or mild cases, boil-and-bite or disposable guards may suffice.
How long does a night guard last?
Custom night guards typically last between one and five years, depending on the material and severity of grinding. Over-the-counter and disposable guards may need replacement every few months.
Can night guards be worn with dental work like implants or dentures?
Some brands (e.g., JS Dental Lab Hard Shield) offer guards compatible with dental implants and dentures. Always confirm product suitability with your dentist before purchasing.
How should I clean my night guard?
Daily rinsing and gentle brushing are recommended. Avoid abrasive toothpaste. Use special cleaning tablets occasionally for deep cleaning, and store your guard dry in a ventilated case.
What if my night guard feels uncomfortable or causes soreness?
It is common to feel mild soreness when first using a night guard. If discomfort continues or worsens, contact the manufacturer or consult your dentist to adjust the fit or explore alternative options.
Are mouthguards and night guards the same thing?
Not always. Mouthguards are typically designed to protect teeth during sports; night guards are customized for bruxism protection during sleep. Some boil-and-bite products serve both purposes, but specialized night guards are more effective for grinding.
Summary and Next Steps
Night guards are essential for preventing long-term damage caused by nighttime grinding or clenching. Whether you choose a custom-fitted guard from a dental lab, an online provider, or a boil-and-bite option, selecting the right product is critical for your comfort and dental health. Always consider your personal needs, consult your dentist, and invest in proper cleaning to maximize the benefits of your night guard.
- For severe bruxism or complex dental needs, choose a durable, custom-fitted guard from a reputable provider.
- For travel or short-term use, disposable options like Plackers Grind No More are both convenient and affordable.
- Regular dental evaluations, along with consistent night guard use, contribute to lasting oral health.
References
- https://youngdentalcare.com/night-guard-brands-to-protect-your-teeth/
- https://www.sleepfoundation.org/best-mouthguard-for-teeth-grinding
- https://shopremi.com/products/custom-night-guard
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/a46503175/best-night-guard-for-teeth/
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/health/a559343/how-to-stop-grinding-your-teeth/
- https://www.proteethguard.com/hybrid-dual-laminate-night-guard/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ir2RuPSg3w4
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
