Best Tips for Sleeping with a Mouth Guard

Are you tired of waking up with a sore jaw or a headache? Maybe you grind your teeth while you sleep, which causes headaches, jaw pain, and even enamel damage. Thousands of people struggle with teeth grinding and jaw clenching, a condition called bruxism. One of the best solutions to get rid of this habit is wearing a mouth guard while you sleep.

But the question is, how can you sleep comfortably while you’re wearing a mouth guard at night? This guide will discuss the best tips for sleeping with a mouth guard so that you can say goodbye to sore jaws and say hello to a good night's sleep

Why Should You Wear a Mouth Guard?

Before moving on to the tips for sleeping with a mouth guard, let’s understand why you should wear it. A mouth guard, also known as a night guard or occlusal guard, is a dental device worn over the teeth to protect them from clenching and grinding during sleep.

A night guard helps prevent tooth damage or damage to any fillings or crowns you may have. It also protects the jaw from unnecessary stress and reduces the chances of TMJ disorders. Since a night guard stops teeth grinding, it also helps you sleep better.

Best Tips for Sleeping with a Mouth Guard

Choose the Right Type of Mouth Guard

Selecting the appropriate mouth guard is important for comfort and protection. There are three primary categories to take into account:

• Stock Mouth Guards: They are already molded and readily available at pharmacies. However, they frequently fit poorly, which causes discomfort. They might also make it difficult to speak and breathe.
• Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards: These are made of thermoplastic, which softens when heated. They fit more precisely than stock versions since you bite into them after boiling to mold them to your teeth. They offer improved comfort and protection and can also be purchased at pharmacies.
• Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards: These provide the best fit and comfort because they are made by dental professionals using an impression of your teeth.

Purchasing a custom-fitted mouth guard for grinding teeth ensures the best possible protection and comfort while you sleep.

Maintain Your Mouth Guard

Keeping your mouth guard clean is essential to prevent bacterial build up:

• Clean Before and After Use: Rinse the mouth guard with cool water before and after each use.
• Use a Toothbrush: Gently brush the mouth guard with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.

• Deep Clean Regularly: Soak the mouth guard in a denture cleaner or a solution recommended by your dentist. Proper maintenance ensures the longevity of the mouth guard and promotes oral health.

Pro Tip: Avoid exposing your night guard to hot water, as it can warp the material. Also, never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage your guard.

Gradual Adjustment

It's normal to experience some discomfort when first using a mouth guard. To ease the transition:

• Wear It During Daytime: Start by wearing the mouth guard for short periods to get habituated to the sensation. You can easily wear them at night after adapting to wearing them during the day.
• Increase Usage Gradually: Extend the wearing time each night until you can comfortably sleep through the night with it. This approach allows your mouth to adapt slowly, reducing discomfort over time.

Follow a Proper Bedtime Routine

Creating a relaxing pre-sleep routine can help your body adjust to wearing a mouth guard:

• Consistent Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
• Relaxation Techniques: Engage in calming activities such as gentle stretching and reading/painting (while wearing your night guard) before bed.
• Avoid Stimulants: Limit caffeine and electronic device usage before bedtime.

A consistent routine signals your brain that it’s time to sleep, making the transformation to a mouth guard much smoother.

Visit a Dentist

If your mouth guard feels uncomfortable even after an adjustment period, then don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.

• Professional Evaluation: Schedule an appointment with your dentist to assess the fit and make necessary adjustments.
• Address Underlying Issues: Discuss any ongoing symptoms that may require additional treatment.

Professional guidance ensures that your mouth guard functions effectively and comfortably. By following these tips, you will know exactly how to stop grinding teeth at night.

How Long Can You Wear a Mouthguard?

Wearing a mouth guard is essential for protecting your teeth, whether you’re grinding them at night or playing sports. But how long can you actually wear one? Let’s break it down simply.

Night Guard for Bruxism

If you wear a mouth guard for bruxism, you’ll have to wear it every night for 6-8 hours when you are sleeping. Night guards are designed to be comfortable for long periods, so you can sleep peacefully through the night.

Sports Mouth Guard

For athletes, mouthguards are used during games or practices. Depending on the sport, you’ll typically wear them for 1-3 hours. After that, always remove and clean your mouth guard to keep it hygienic. ALIGNERCO mouth guards are safe to keep in your mouth while you're playing a game.

Durability of Mouth Guard

A good-quality mouthguard can last 6 months to 3 years, depending on the type and how well you care for it. Custom-fitted guards, like those from ALIGNERCO, tend to last longer with proper care because they’re made from durable materials.

When to Replace Your Mouth Guard

Replace your mouth guard if you notice:

• It shows signs of wear, like cracks or thinning.
• A loose or uncomfortable fit.
• It feels uncomfortable or causes irritation.

Pro Tip: To extend the life of your mouth guard, clean it daily and store it in a ventilated case. Avoid exposing it to hot water or harsh chemicals.

Are ALIGNERCO Mouth Guards Safe to Sleep With?

Yes, mouth guards are 100% safe to sleep with if they’re the right fit! A properly fitted ALIGNERCO night guard is safe and comfortable for nightly use. They protect your teeth from grinding and reduce jaw pain, migraines, and enamel deterioration.

Mistakes to Avoid While Using a Mouth Guard

• Using a poorly fitted guard – Causes discomfort and doesn’t offer full protection.
• Skipping cleaning – Leads to bacteria build up and bad odor.
• Chewing on the guard – Weakens the material and shortens its lifespan.
• Not replacing when needed – Worn-out guards lose effectiveness; replace them as recommended.

How ALIGNERCO Mouth Guards Help You Sleep Comfortably

If you suffer from bruxism, you know how it can disrupt your sleep and cause jaw pain or headaches. ALIGNERCO mouth guards provide a comfortable barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing damage and ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep.

Why ALIGNERCO is the Best Night Guard for Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding can cause severe damage over time, from cracked teeth to TMJ disorders. That’s why choosing the right night guard is so important. Here’s why ALIGNERCO stands out:

1. Custom Fit for Maximum Comfort:

ALIGNERCO night guards are custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly. There are no bulky, uncomfortable store-bought guards here—just a snug, comfortable fit that feels natural.

2. Superior Protection:

Our night guards are designed to absorb the pressure from grinding, protect your teeth, and reduce strain on your jaw.

3. Affordable and High-Quality:

Unlike expensive dental visits, ALIGNERCO offers professional-grade night guards at a fraction of the cost. You get top-quality protection without breaking the bank.

4. Easy to Order and Use:

Just take an impression of your teeth at home, send it to us, and we’ll create your custom night guard. It’s that simple!

5. Durable and Long-lasting:

Made from high-quality materials, ALIGNERCO night guards are built to withstand nightly grinding, so you can trust them to last.

Say goodbye to sleepless nights and hello to a healthier smile!

Final Thoughts

With the right tips and a high-quality night guard, you can protect your teeth while enjoying your sleep at night. Whether you’re dealing with grinding, clenching, or misalignment, ALIGNERCO custom mouth guards provide you the comfort and protection you need at night.