Sleeping with a mouth guard is common and often essential for maintaining oral and overall health. A sleep mouth guard is a custom-made or prefabricated dental appliance worn over the teeth. These devices address various sleep-related issues affecting the teeth, jaw, and breathing. They work by creating a barrier or repositioning the jaw to mitigate harmful forces or airway obstruction during sleep.
Why People Use Mouth Guards for Sleep
Mouth guards are used during sleep primarily to protect teeth or maintain an open airway. The most common indication is managing bruxism, the unconscious grinding or clenching of the teeth. A guard acts as a protective cushion, preventing teeth from making direct contact and absorbing jaw forces. This prevents excessive wear on the enamel, reduces fracture risk, and alleviates symptoms such as headaches and jaw soreness.
A different oral appliance treats Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), where the airway partially or completely collapses during sleep. These devices reposition the lower jaw (mandible) slightly forward. Advancing the jaw moves the tongue and soft tissues forward, preventing them from blocking the airway. This promotes smoother breathing, reduces snoring, and is an effective treatment for mild to moderate OSA.
Some appliances also provide relief for Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders. By stabilizing the jaw and reducing muscle tension, these guards lessen pain in the jaw joint and surrounding facial muscles.
Types of Sleep Mouth Guards and Their Purpose
Sleep mouth guards are classified by their construction and intended purpose. They are distinguished as custom-made or over-the-counter (OTC) devices. Custom-made guards are fabricated by a dental professional using an impression of the patient’s mouth, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit that accounts for the individual’s unique bite. These are generally made from durable acrylic or hard plastic, offering superior protection and a longer lifespan.
OTC options, such as “boil-and-bite” models, are less expensive and molded at home, but they provide a less precise fit. While they offer temporary relief for mild grinding, they are not recommended for treating sleep apnea or severe bruxism. OTC materials are often less durable and require replacement more frequently than custom appliances.
There are two primary functional types: night guards and Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs). Standard night guards (occlusal splints) cover the biting surfaces to protect teeth from grinding forces. MADs, along with Tongue Stabilizing Devices (TSDs), treat OSA by holding the lower jaw or tongue in a forward position to keep the airway open. These advanced appliances are almost always custom-made for effectiveness and safety.
Safety, Usage, and Common Side Effects
When properly fitted, sleeping with a mouth guard is safe, but precautions are necessary, especially with OTC models. A poorly fitting guard, particularly one that is too loose, can pose a choking hazard if dislodged. Professional fitting is recommended for long-term use to ensure the device does not obstruct the airway or cause adverse dental changes.
New users experience an adjustment period with common side effects. Temporary jaw soreness or discomfort is reported as muscles and joints adapt to the appliance or the new jaw position. Increased salivation is common because the mouth interprets the foreign object as food, triggering a temporary increase in saliva production.
Some individuals notice their bite feels slightly different upon waking, but this sensation typically resolves within minutes after removing the guard. Rarely, a sensitive gag reflex can be triggered, though this sensitivity often diminishes with use. Any persistent discomfort, pain, or changes in bite should be addressed by a dentist, as the appliance may require adjustment.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Mouth Guard
Consistent hygiene ensures the appliance remains effective and safe. After each night’s use, rinse the mouth guard with lukewarm water to remove saliva and debris. Clean the device daily using a soft-bristled brush and a mild, non-abrasive soap or specialized denture cleaner. Avoid abrasive products like regular toothpaste, as they can scratch the surface and create rough areas where bacteria accumulate.
Proper storage maintains the guard’s integrity and cleanliness. The appliance should air dry completely before being placed in a clean, ventilated storage case. Storing a damp guard in a sealed case encourages bacterial growth and leads to unpleasant odors. Extreme heat, such as hot water or direct sunlight, must be avoided because it can warp the material and compromise the custom fit.
All mouth guards eventually need replacement due to wear and tear. Signs that a guard is reaching the end of its lifespan include:
- Cracks
- Holes
- Thinning material
- A persistent odor that cannot be cleaned
Custom-made guards can last several years, but store-bought options may need replacement multiple times per year, depending on the severity of the grinding.