A night guard is an oral appliance frequently prescribed by dentists to protect teeth from the effects of bruxism, which is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, primarily during sleep. These custom-fitted devices, also known as occlusal splints, create a physical barrier between the upper and lower dental arches, preventing tooth wear and reducing jaw strain. While night guards are highly effective for these purposes, a common concern for users is the sudden onset of a sore throat upon waking. This discomfort is often an indirect consequence of the appliance altering physiological functions overnight.
Changes in Breathing Patterns and Dry Mouth
The most frequent cause of a night guard-related sore throat is a change in the user’s natural breathing pattern during sleep. Introducing a foreign object, even if custom-fitted, can slightly alter the resting position of the jaw and tongue. This subtle change may encourage or exacerbate mouth breathing, especially for individuals with underlying nasal congestion or airway issues.
When a person breathes through their mouth for several hours, the air bypasses the natural humidifying function of the nasal passages. This continuous flow of dry air across the delicate tissues of the throat and soft palate leads to xerostomia, or dry mouth. Saliva, which normally lubricates these tissues, evaporates rapidly, causing the throat to become dehydrated and irritated. This scratchy, parched sensation is perceived as a sore throat upon waking.
Irritation from Appliance Hygiene and Material
A sore throat can also result from a buildup of microorganisms on the appliance itself. The dark, moist environment of the mouth provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, plaque, and fungi, such as Candida albicans. If the night guard is not cleaned thoroughly every day, these microbes accumulate on its surface and are held against the soft tissues of the mouth and throat overnight. This continuous contact with a contaminated surface can lead to inflammation or minor infection of the pharyngeal mucosa. For instance, an overgrowth of Candida can result in oral thrush, which may present as soreness extending into the throat.
A less common cause is a hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to the appliance material, such as specific acrylics or plastics. While rare, an allergic reaction can cause localized swelling, redness, and irritation that may be felt as a persistent sore throat.
Immediate Remedies for Night Guard Related Soreness
Addressing the sore throat often begins with simple steps centered on hydration and hygiene. To counteract the effects of mouth breathing, using a bedroom humidifier can add moisture to the air, which helps reduce the overnight drying of the throat tissues. Drinking water immediately before bed and upon waking can also help rehydrate the oral mucosa and provide relief.
Meticulous cleaning of the night guard is a necessary daily remedy to control microbial buildup. After each use, the appliance should be gently brushed with a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive soap or an approved cleaning solution, avoiding regular toothpaste which can scratch the material. A regular soaking routine in a specialized dental appliance cleaner can further sanitize the guard and prevent the transfer of irritants. For immediate symptom relief, gargling with warm salt water can soothe the irritated throat lining.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
While most night guard-related soreness is temporary and resolves with better hygiene or breathing adjustments, certain symptoms warrant professional medical or dental attention. If the sore throat persists for more than two weeks despite consistent adjustments and good oral hygiene, it should be evaluated by a dentist or physician. This persistence may indicate an unresolved fit issue or a non-appliance-related underlying condition.
Seek professional help immediately if the soreness is accompanied by severe pain, difficulty swallowing, or a fever. Visible signs such as ulcers, white patches, or severe redness in the throat or mouth also require evaluation, as these may signal a more serious infection or an allergic reaction. Furthermore, if the night guard feels excessively bulky, causes pressure, or causes a noticeable shift in jaw alignment, a dental professional needs to adjust or remake the appliance to ensure proper fit and function.