Waking up with a sore jaw, a dull headache, or sensitive teeth are telltale signs of bruxism, the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth during sleep. This common condition can lead to significant dental damage, including worn-down enamel, chipped teeth, and strain on your jaw joints. Fortunately, a quality dental night guard can act as a protective barrier, cushioning your teeth and helping to alleviate these uncomfortable morning-after symptoms.
With a vast array of options available, from ready-to-wear models to custom-fit kits, finding the right guard for your needs is crucial for both comfort and effectiveness. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best dental night guards designed to help you stop grinding, protect your smile, and finally achieve a more restful night’s sleep.
Our Top Picks for Dental Night Guards
- Mouth Guard for Clenching Teeth at Night, 4 Pcs
- DenTek Comfort-Fit Dental Guard For Nighttime Teeth Grinding
- ClearClub | Custom Dental Night Guard for Bruxism
- Mouth Guard for Grinding Teeth at Night with 12 Cleaning Tablets
- Plackers Grind No More Night Guard, BPA Free, 16 Count
- SENTINEL MOUTHGUARDS Custom Hard Night Guard for Lower Teeth
- Okiguards Two Custom Mouth Guards, 2 Packs for Custom Hybrid
- SleepRight ProRx Custom Dental Guard – Mouth Guard for Grinding
- DenTek Ultimate Guard for Nighttime Teeth Grinding
- SleepRight Comfort Adjust Night Guard
Mouth Guard for Clenching Teeth at Night, 4 Pcs
This value-packed set offers four moldable mouthguards, providing a cost-effective solution for those new to night guards or who prefer having backups. The material is designed to closely fit your teeth for a personalized feel after a simple at-home molding process. It comes with easy-to-follow instructions to help you achieve a secure and comfortable fit.
Beyond protecting your teeth from grinding at night, this versatile product is also suitable for use as a sports guard for activities like boxing or soccer, and can even function as teeth whitening trays. This multi-purpose approach makes it a practical choice for various needs, all while helping to promote a better quality of sleep by preventing the damage and discomfort caused by bruxism.
DenTek Comfort-Fit Dental Guard For Nighttime Teeth Grinding
For those seeking a straightforward, no-fuss solution, the DenTek Comfort-Fit Guard is ready to wear straight out of the box with no boiling required. Its slim design fits securely on the lower teeth, providing a level of protection comparable to a full-coverage guard but with a less bulky feel. This can be a great advantage for sleepers who are sensitive to having a large device in their mouth.
The guard is BPA and latex free, ensuring a safe experience. DenTek states that this dental guard offers six months of protection from the date of purchase, making it a durable, medium-term option. Its convenience and proven design have made it a long-standing and trusted choice for many people dealing with nighttime teeth grinding.
ClearClub | Custom Dental Night Guard for Bruxism
ClearClub brings a professional, custom-fitted experience to the at-home night guard market. You receive an impression kit to create a mold of your teeth, which is then used by their dental lab technicians to craft a guard tailored specifically to your dental anatomy. This process aims to ensure maximum protection and comfort throughout the night.
The guard features a dual-laminate construction, combining a soft inner layer for comfort with a hard outer layer for durability and effective protection against grinding forces. At 2mm thick, it strikes a balance between the two. Made in the USA with BPA-free, latex-free, and acrylic-free materials, this option is for those seeking a high-quality, custom solution without the high cost of a dentist-made guard.
Mouth Guard for Grinding Teeth at Night with 12 Cleaning Tablets
This kit focuses on both protection and maintenance, including 12 cleaning tablets to help keep your guard fresh and hygienic. The guard itself is made from premium, BPA-free EVA material, which is known for being both durable and flexible, offering a safe and comfortable fit for long-term use. It is also free from phthalates and latex.
Designed to be moldable for a customizable fit, it comes in two different sizes to better accommodate various mouth shapes. The soft yet tear-resistant material is intended to effectively prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching, helping to protect your enamel and relieve TMJ discomfort. This combination of a customizable fit and included cleaning solution offers a comprehensive package for nightly care.
Plackers Grind No More Night Guard, BPA Free, 16 Count
Plackers offers a truly disposable and convenient solution for teeth grinding. The pack includes 16 guards, which can provide up to 48 uses if each guard is used for a few nights, as some users prefer. They are ready to wear with a one-size-fits-all design that can be used on either the upper or lower teeth, requiring no molding or preparation.
The key feature is the patented clench and grind absorbing bite plates, which are designed to help stop you from grinding your teeth during the night. This ultra-convenient option is ideal for travel, for those who want to try a night guard without commitment, or for individuals who prefer the hygiene of a frequently replaced guard.
SENTINEL MOUTHGUARDS Custom Hard Night Guard for Lower Teeth
The Sentinel Mouthguards option is a custom hard guard designed specifically for the lower teeth, offering a slim profile that many users find less intrusive during sleep. It is intended for those with light to moderate teeth grinding or jaw clenching. Like other custom kits, you use an at-home impression system to create a model of your teeth.
The guard is noted for its excellent durability and clarity, and because it is custom-fitted to your unique dental anatomy, it aims to provide a secure and comfortable fit. Being made in the USA with BPA-free materials provides additional assurance of quality and safety for the user.
Okiguards Two Custom Mouth Guards, 2 Packs for Custom Hybrid
Okiguards provides excellent value by including two custom guards in one kit. Each guard is custom-made based on your dental impressions to ensure a precise and comfortable fit for effective protection against grinding and clenching. This two-pack is perfect for having a backup or for alternating between guards to extend their lifespan.
A significant benefit of this brand is the level of customization. You can choose from three different thickness levels—1.0mm, 2.0mm, or 3.0mm—and select whether you need an upper, lower, or both guards. The guards feature a premium dual-layer construction with a firm outer layer for strength and a soft inner layer for comfort.
SleepRight ProRx Custom Dental Guard – Mouth Guard for Grinding
The SleepRight ProRx stands out with its strong satisfaction guarantee, offering a 45-day trial period with a promise to make it right if you are not satisfied, which is a significant confidence-builder for an online purchase. It is also marketed for its durability, with the brand claiming it lasts up to ten times longer than leading competitors.
The fitting process is designed to be user-friendly. Its low-temperature fitting material softens at just 150°F, which is cooler than water’s boiling point, making it safer and easier to mold. This also allows for remolding if your first attempt isn’t perfect, helping you achieve a secure and comfortable custom fit at home.
DenTek Ultimate Guard for Nighttime Teeth Grinding
The DenTek Ultimate Guard is a step up from their Comfort-Fit model, offering full coverage for both front and back teeth. It comes with a SmartFit Tray designed to help you achieve a dentist-quality fit through a simple, three-step customization process at home. It’s important to read all instructions and watch their fitting video for the best results.
Like other DenTek products, it is BPA-free and made in the USA. This guard is also rated to provide six months of protection from the date of purchase, making it a robust option for those who need full-tooth coverage and prefer a moldable, boil-and-bite style guard from a reputable brand.
SleepRight Comfort Adjust Night Guard
The SleepRight Comfort Adjust Night Guard offers a unique design that differs from typical solid or moldable guards. It features an adjustable fit system, allowing you to customize the tightness for a secure and comfortable feel without any boiling or molding. This can be a great solution for those who have had trouble with traditional fitting methods.
This guard is designed with a slim profile to minimize bulk and encourage a natural jaw position. Its ease of use and the ability to adjust the fit as needed make it a recurring favorite for people looking for a simple, effective, and non-intrusive way to protect their teeth from the effects of nighttime grinding and clenching.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dental Night Guards for Grinding
When I started looking for a solution to my teeth grinding, I quickly realized not all night guards are created equal. The sheer number of options can be overwhelming, but understanding a few key factors made my decision much easier. The right guard can mean the difference between peaceful sleep and waking up with a sore jaw, so it’s worth taking the time to choose wisely.
First, consider the material and thickness. Most over-the-counter guards are made from thermoplastic or a softer, flexible material. Thicker guards (often around 2-3mm) generally offer more durability and protection for heavy grinders, while thinner ones can feel less bulky. I found that a dual-layer design, with a hard outer shell and a soft inner lining, gave me the best combination of comfort and strong protection against the force of my grinding.
The fit is arguably the most critical factor. A poorly fitting guard can be uncomfortable, fall out during the night, or even cause your teeth to shift. You have two main paths: boil-and-bite or custom-made. Boil-and-bite guards are affordable and can be molded at home to your teeth, offering a decent intermediate fit. For the most precise and comfortable fit, a custom guard made from a dental impression is the gold standard. While more expensive, it ensures even pressure distribution and maximum effectiveness. I learned that a proper fit should feel snug but not painfully tight, and it shouldn’t impede your breathing.
Also, think about the guard’s design. Full-coverage guards protect all your teeth, which is ideal if you grind both top and bottom. Some designs are specific to your upper or lower arch. Your dentist can advise on which is best for your situation. Durability is another practical concern. A guard is an investment, so check what the manufacturer says about its expected lifespan. Most quality guards should last between 6 months to a few years with proper care, which involves regular cleaning with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, and storing it in its case when not in use. Starting with these considerations in mind will help you navigate the market and find one of the best dental night guards for grinding that truly works for you and your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need a night guard?
The most common signs are waking up with a sore jaw, headaches, or noticing that your teeth feel sensitive or look flattened or chipped. Sometimes, a partner might be the one to tell you they hear you grinding your teeth at night. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist. They can confirm if bruxism (the technical term for grinding) is the cause and help you decide on the best course of action, which often includes getting one of the best dental night guards for grinding.
Are cheap, over-the-counter night guards effective?
They can be, but with some caveats. Over-the-counter, boil-and-bite guards are a great starting point for mild to moderate grinding and are certainly better than no protection at all. They form a basic barrier between your teeth. However, they are generally less durable and may not fit as precisely as a custom-made guard from a dentist. An imperfect fit can lead to discomfort or even cause your bite to change over time. For severe grinding, a professionally made guard is almost always the recommended and more effective solution.
Can a night guard damage my teeth?
A well-fitted night guard should not damage your teeth. Its primary job is to prevent damage from grinding. However, a poorly fitted guard, especially one that is too tight or doesn’t align your jaw properly, could potentially cause issues. This is a more common risk with one-size-fits-all or poorly molded boil-and-bite guards. This is why a proper fit is so important. If you get a guard from your dentist, they will ensure it fits correctly and does not put any unnatural pressure on your teeth.
How do I clean and care for my night guard?
Proper care is essential for hygiene and to make your guard last. I rinse mine with cool water every morning. Once or twice a week, I give it a gentle brush with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of mild liquid soap. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and scratch the surface, creating places for bacteria to grow. You can also use cleaning tablets designed for dentures or retainers. Always store it in its ventilated case when you’re not using it to keep it safe from dust and damage.
How long does a typical night guard last?
The lifespan depends heavily on the quality of the guard and the severity of your grinding. A standard over-the-counter boil-and-bite guard might last anywhere from a few months to a year. A high-quality custom guard from a dentist, made from a more durable laboratory-processed material, can often last for several years. You’ll know it’s time for a replacement if you see visible signs of wear, like holes or deep grooves, or if it no longer feels like it fits snugly.
Will my insurance cover the cost of a night guard?
Many dental insurance plans do offer partial or even full coverage for a custom-fitted night guard, especially if your dentist documents that it is medically necessary to treat bruxism. However, the level of coverage varies greatly between plans. It’s always best to contact your insurance provider directly to understand your specific benefits, including any deductibles or co-pays, before proceeding with a custom order from your dentist.