Do you wake up with a sore jaw or headaches? Your dentist Spruce Grove might suggest a night guard. But here’s the thing – not all night guards are the same. Let me explain the differences between soft and hard night guards so you can decide which might work better for you.
What Are Night Guards?
Night guards are special dental devices that protect your teeth while you sleep. Think of them like a cushion for your teeth. They sit over your upper or lower teeth and stop them from grinding together at night. Many people grind their teeth without even knowing it. This is called bruxism, and it can damage your teeth over time.
Understanding Soft Night Guards
Soft night guards Spruce Grove are made from a flexible, rubber-like material. When you touch them, they feel cushiony and bend easily.
Who Should Use Soft Night Guards:
- People who grind their teeth lightly
- First-time night guard users
- Anyone with mild jaw clenching
The soft material feels comfortable right away. Most people get used to wearing them quickly. However, some dentists notice that soft guards make some people chew more during sleep. It’s like giving your jaw a chew toy. This doesn’t happen to everyone, but it’s something to watch out for.
Benefits of soft night guards include:
- Very comfortable to wear
- Easy to adjust to
- Good for mild grinding
- Less expensive than hard guards
Understanding Hard Night Guards
Hard night guards are made from firm acrylic material. They don’t bend or flex much. When a dentist examines your teeth and finds heavy grinding damage, they usually recommend hard guards.
Who Should Use Hard Night Guards:
- People with severe teeth grinding
- Those who clench their jaw strongly
- Patients with TMJ problems
- Anyone who has damaged a soft guard before
Hard guards last much longer than soft ones. They provide stronger protection because they create a hard surface that your teeth can’t grind through. The firm material also helps guide your jaw into a better position while you sleep.
Comparing Soft vs. Hard Night Guards
| Feature | Soft Night Guards | Hard Night Guards |
| Material | Flexible rubber | Hard acrylic |
| Comfort | Very comfortable | Takes time to adjust |
| Ideal For | Light grinding | Heavy grinding |
| Lifespan | 6 months to 1 year | 2 to 5 years |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Custom Night Guards vs. Store-Bought Guards
You can buy night guards at the drugstore, but custom night guards from your dentist work much better. Here’s why:
Custom guards are made specifically for your mouth. Your dentist takes an impression of your teeth. Then a dental lab creates a guard that fits perfectly. Store-bought guards use a one-size-fits-all approach. They often feel bulky and uncomfortable.
Custom guards stay in place all night. Cheap guards can slip around or even fall out. When you invest in a custom guard from your dentist, you get better protection and more comfort.
How to Choose the Right Night Guard
Your dentist will help you decide which type works best for you. They look at several things:
- How badly you grind your teeth
- Whether you have any dental work, like crowns or bridges
- If you have TMJ disorder
- Your budget
- How sensitive is your mouth is
Don’t try to guess which one you need. Schedule a visit with a dentist near you to get checked. They can see the grinding damage on your teeth that you might overlook.
Taking Care of Your Night Guard
Both soft and hard guards need proper care:
- Rinse your guard with cool water after each use
- Brush it gently with a toothbrush
- Let it dry completely before storing
- Keep it in a protective case
- Bring it to your dental checkups
Clean guards last longer and keep your mouth healthier.
Finding the Right Teeth Grinding Solutions
Teeth grinding solutions aren’t just about night guards. Your dentist might also suggest:
- Stress management techniques
- Avoiding caffeine before bed
- Doing jaw exercises
- Fixing bite problems with orthodontics
Night guards are usually the first step because they work quickly to protect your teeth.
Prevent Tooth Damage With Night Guards Today!
At Queen Street Dental, our dentist provides custom night guards to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching. Night guards help reduce tooth wear, jaw pain, and pressure on your bite while you sleep. Our clinic uses safe dental methods and clear guidance so patients feel comfortable and informed during care. We focus on oral health. Call Queen Street Dental today to book your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get used to a night guard?
Most people adjust to soft guards within 3-5 nights. Hard guards might take 1-2 weeks. Your mouth needs time to get used to having something new in it while you sleep.
How often should I replace my night guard?
Soft guards typically last 6 months to 1 year. Hard guards can last 2-5 years. Bring your guard to dental appointments so your dentist can check for wear.
Can children use night guards?
Yes, but children need special guards because their teeth are still growing. A dentist will create guards that adjust as their mouth changes.