What Are Night Guards and How Do They Work?

A dental night guard is a protective device worn over your teeth while you sleep to prevent damage to your teeth. Sometimes night guards are called “sleep guards” or just “mouth guards.” However, unlike the kind used in sports, this one is strictly for nighttime use. The term “dental guard” is often used interchangeably with “night guard,” but it's usually linked to recommendations provided by a dentist.

Night guards can’t stop you from grinding or clenching your teeth, but they’re custom-made to reduce the harmful effects of bruxism, such as tooth enamel erosion and jaw stress. Bruxism is often caused by stress and manifests as excessive clenching and grinding of the teeth, usually while sleeping. It can lead to fractures in the teeth, as well as damage to dental restorations. It can also lead to oversized dental arches and jaw muscles, as well as headaches. 

There are several ways to treat bruxism, the dental night guard being the most common. 

These custom-fitted mouthpieces are worn on the upper or lower teeth while sleeping. It acts as a barrier between the teeth, absorbing the forces generated during clenching and grinding. 

Studies show that wearing a night guard can help mitigate the effects of bruxism and lead to less pain upon waking. Many people with bruxism find that they are better able to sleep when wearing a night guard. However, the most effective night guard is the one that fits the user’s mouth specifically. Most come in at least two varieties: soft and hard.

How Night Guards Prevent Dental Damage

Grinding or clenching your teeth can quietly wear down a beautiful smile, eroding enamel, causing cracks, or straining the gums and jaw. This kind of hidden damage can undo the progress made from braces, aligners, or other dental work. While teeth grinding is surprisingly common, it can put your teeth at risk for years.

A dental night guard, or mouth guard for sleeping, prevents dental damage in a number of ways: 

• Cushions Impact: A sleep guard acts as a buffer for the force of grinding, which in turn preserves your enamel.

• Prevents Breakage: A night guard decreases the chance of chipped or broken teeth.

• Eases Jaw Stress: A mouth guard reduces stress in your jaw, which in turn helps with TMJ pain, soreness, and even sleep quality.

Not only that, but mouth guards can lower dental bills by preventing issues that may result in expensive dental work in the future. Overall, this small device can provide long-term protection for your dental health.

Who Can Benefit From Night Guards?

Night guards aren’t just for one type of person. They’re a smart choice for anyone looking to protect their teeth and maintain good oral health. People from all walks of life find themselves reaching for a night guard, whether to solve an urgent dental problem or as a preventive measure.

If you’re wondering whether a night guard can help you, consider these common situations: 

• Teeth grinding (bruxism): If you grind or clench your teeth at night, a night guard creates a barrier to protect against enamel wear, chips, and cracks.

• Jaw pain and TMJ issues: If you experience jaw discomfort, clicking, or TMJ disorder, wearing a night guard can ease pressure on the joint and help prevent symptoms from getting worse.

• After braces or aligners: If you’re done wearing braces or clear aligners, a night guard can help keep your teeth straight and prevent movement or grinding while you sleep.

• Protecting dental work: If you have crowns, veneers, implants, or other dental work, a night guard provides extra protection against accidental damage from grinding.

• Cosmetic and preventive care: If you want to be proactive about your oral health, using a night guard can help maintain your results after whitening or other smile makeovers.

• Convenience and home delivery: If you like the ease of home delivery and custom-fit kits, a night guard can be a simple addition to your dental routine without needing extra visits to the dentist.

If you’re not sure which type is right, custom-made guards often offer the best comfort and fit. Professional guards from a dentist are great for heavy grinding, but custom options you can order from home are also effective and can be more affordable.

Your Next Step To Smile Protection

Protecting your teeth doesn’t need to be complicated. A night guard is a straightforward, effective way to prevent dental damage, keep your smile looking great, and help you rest easier. Night guards shield your teeth from the effects of grinding and help relieve jaw tension, addressing the real risks of bruxism. Most people find that any initial discomfort fades with a proper fit, regular cleaning, and regular replacements.

Start by consulting with a dental professional or telehealth provider like SmileSet for personalized guidance on whether it’s right for you. Many recommend wearing your mouth guard every night while sleeping to ensure consistent protection. However, your specific needs may vary based on professional advice.

At SmileSet, we make smile care simple and convenient. Choose from our Premium Clear Night Guard (No Impression or Scan Needed) or Premium Clear Night Guard + Impression Kit for a fully customized fit. We recommend replacing your night guard every six months.

Ready to protect your smile for the long term? Contact us or sign up for a recurring retainer replacement subscription when you place your dental night guard order.