A night guard is a custom-fitted dental appliance worn over the teeth, typically at night, to protect them from the damaging effects of grinding and clenching (bruxism). This device provides a protective barrier, reducing wear on the teeth and easing strain on the jaw muscles. While night guards are intended for protection, they can sometimes cause temporary throat discomfort or soreness. This irritation is usually related to how the body adapts to the appliance or issues with its maintenance.
Understanding the Direct Causes of Throat Irritation
The most common physiological cause of a sore throat from a night guard involves changes in how a person breathes during sleep. Introducing a bulky object into the mouth, especially a hard acrylic splint, can slightly alter the resting position of the jaw. This positional shift may inadvertently encourage or even force the wearer to breathe more through their mouth instead of their nose.
Mouth breathing causes air to bypass the nasal passages, which normally humidify and warm the air. This constant flow of dry air over the delicate tissues of the throat leads to excessive moisture evaporation, known as xerostomia or dry mouth. Waking up with a dry, irritated, or scratchy throat is a classic sign of this drying effect. The discomfort usually resolves quickly after drinking water.
The initial use of a night guard can also lead to mild muscle tension. The jaw muscles and surrounding soft tissues must adapt to holding the appliance in place. This adjustment period may cause temporary soreness in the muscles that control swallowing and jaw movement, typically lasting only a few days to a couple of weeks.
The Connection Between Appliance Care and Soreness
A night guard that is not cleaned consistently can quickly become a reservoir for microorganisms. The dark, moist environment of the mouth and the storage case is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, yeast, and mold. These organisms thrive on the saliva and debris that collect on the appliance’s surface.
Poor hygiene allows these microbes to multiply and contaminate the mouth and throat. Reintroducing a dirty night guard exposes the throat lining to a high concentration of pathogens, which can lead to chronic irritation or a mild infection. For example, fungi like Candida albicans can colonize the guard, potentially leading to oral thrush and throat discomfort.
The physical fit of the night guard is another factor that can cause irritation. A guard that is too bulky, ill-fitting, or has rough edges can put improper pressure on the gums and soft tissues. This can lead to localized irritation, inflammation, or excessive salivation, which may contribute to throat discomfort. Over-the-counter guards are more likely to have these fit issues compared to custom-made appliances, which precisely conform to the mouth’s contours.
Actionable Steps for Prevention and Relief
To mitigate dryness, use a humidifier near the bed to increase air moisture while sleeping. Staying well-hydrated throughout the day is also helpful, ensuring the body produces enough saliva to lubricate the mouth and throat. If the appliance causes mouth breathing, consult a dentist or an ear, nose, and throat specialist to rule out underlying nasal obstruction or sleep apnea.
Maintaining rigorous hygiene is highly effective in preventing irritation from microbial buildup. Rinse the night guard immediately after removal with cool water to wash away saliva and debris. Daily, use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive soap or specialized cleaner, avoiding abrasive toothpaste that can scratch the material.
For issues related to fit, consult the dental professional who fabricated the guard for adjustments to smooth rough edges or reduce bulk. If soreness persists beyond the initial two-week adjustment period, or if signs of infection like fever or white patches appear, seek immediate medical attention. Routine dental checkups allow the professional to inspect the guard for damage and provide deep cleaning or replacement recommendations.