Wearing a mouth guard, often prescribed for bruxism (teeth grinding) or temporomandibular joint (TMD) issues, protects your teeth and jaw joints from damage. Introducing a foreign object into the mouth for the first time can feel strange and temporarily disrupt sleep comfort. This initial sensation is normal, but it can be managed with consistent practice and specific troubleshooting techniques. Comfortable nightly use requires a structured approach to adaptation and diligent maintenance.
Strategies for Initial Adaptation
The period required to fully adjust to a night guard typically ranges from two to four weeks, as your brain and jaw muscles need consistent exposure to accept it as a normal part of your sleep routine. To speed up this process, start by wearing the guard for short, non-sleep periods, such as while watching television or reading for an hour or two in the evening. This allows your mouth to become accustomed to the feel without the added pressure of trying to fall asleep.
Consistency is key; skipping nights immediately resets your progress and extends the adjustment phase. Aim to wear the guard for the entire night, every night, as soon as you can tolerate it. Before lying down, practice deep, slow breaths or other relaxation techniques to minimize anxiety associated with the new sensation. A tight fit or a minor, temporary change in how your teeth meet is a normal part of the adjustment, but any sharp or persistent pain requires a professional adjustment from your dentist.
Troubleshooting Specific Physical Reactions
One of the most common initial side effects is excessive salivation (drooling). This occurs because the body instinctively registers the guard as a food item, triggering the salivary glands. This reaction is harmless and will subside naturally within a week or two. Focused nasal breathing at bedtime can sometimes help reduce the pooling of saliva and encourage faster adjustment.
If the guard triggers a gag reflex, the problem may be related to the appliance’s fit, particularly if it is a bulky or over-the-counter model. A guard that extends too far back, touching the soft palate at the roof of the mouth, will stimulate the reflex. Try wearing the guard for incrementally longer periods throughout the day to desensitize the reflex. Alternatively, consult your dentist about trimming the material back from the rear molars.
Mild jaw muscle soreness in the morning is a frequent occurrence as the jaw repositions and the muscles adapt to the new bite position. This discomfort can often be relieved with a warm compress applied to the jaw area or by performing gentle jaw stretching exercises. If the pain is severe, sharp, or lasts longer than a few weeks, the guard may require professional grinding or adjustment to ensure it is not creating harmful pressure points.
Cleaning and Longevity of Your Guard
Maintaining the cleanliness of your mouth guard is non-negotiable for both oral health and the device’s lifespan. Every morning, immediately after removal, rinse the guard with cool or lukewarm water to remove saliva and debris. Then, gently brush the entire surface using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner, such as mild hand soap or dish soap.
Avoid using toothpaste, as the abrasive particles can create microscopic scratches on the guard’s surface where bacteria and plaque can accumulate. After cleaning, allow the guard to air dry completely, which typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, before storing it in its case. Storing a damp guard encourages the growth of mold and harmful bacteria, so a vented storage case is ideal for promoting airflow.
Always keep the guard away from extreme heat, such as direct sunlight or a running dishwasher, as high temperatures can cause the material to warp and ruin the custom fit. Regular cleaning and proper storage ensure the guard remains hygienic and structurally sound, maximizing its lifespan.