Dental night guards are custom-made, removable dental appliances that fit over your teeth and align them to minimize damage from teeth grinding, also known as bruxism and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. 

While these instruments can be highly effective in alleviating pain and preventing further dental issues, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects. With that said, let’s look at the common and uncommon dental night guard side effects!

Common Dental Night Guard Side Effects 

Discomfort and Soreness

When you first start wearing a dental night guard, it is common to feel some discomfort and soreness. This is usually due to the pressure applied to your teeth and gums as your mouth adjusts to the new instrument.

It generally takes a few days or even a week for your mouth to become accustomed to the night guard. However, if the pain persists, consult your dentist for adjustments or alternative options.

Speech Issues

At the start, wearing a dental night guard does make it difficult for some people when speaking. This is often due to the instrument’s thickness and positioning in the mouth. To overcome this, the best method is to practice speaking while wearing the night guard at home to help your mouth adapt more quickly. 

Excess Saliva Production

It’s normal for your mouth to produce more saliva when you first start wearing a dental night guard. This is a natural response to the presence of a foreign object in the mouth. That said, it’s also potentially a good thing for protecting your teeth from decay!

Bad Morning Breath

Everyone has bad breath in the morning and wearing a night guard only worsens it. When you sleep, your mouth produces less saliva, which allows odor-causing bacteria to thrive. A dental night guard can contribute to this situation by creating an environment that further encourages bacterial growth, leading to an increase in bad morning breath.

Allergic Reactions

Dental night guards are typically made from materials such as acrylic, silicone, or thermoplastic. While these materials are generally safe, some individuals may have an allergic reaction. Some symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, redness, swelling, or discomfort around the mouth or gums.

If any of these symptoms occur, stop wearing your night guard, contact your doctor, and ask for a night guard made of a different material, such as hypoallergenic ones, to avoid allergic reactions. 

One other thing to note here, and this one caught me off guard, is what you clean your mouthguard with. When I was new to mouthguards, I cleaned mine in a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution which was WAY too strong and damaged the night guard, also potentially absorbing into it (it was a cheap over the counter guard). I woke up the next morning with what felt like a mild chemical burn, so definitely be mindful of that too!

Shifting Teeth Concerns

Shifting teeth remains one of the many side effects of wearing dental night guards. While night guards are designed to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching, it’s essential to understand the potential risks and how to reduce them.

Teeth shifting can occur when constant pressure is applied to your teeth over time, causing them to move out of their original position. This is a valid concern when using a night guard, as the instrument can exert pressure on the teeth while being worn.

Most importantly, the issue of teeth shifting mostly occurs when using Ill-fitting, over-the-counter night guards as they may not provide an even distribution of pressure across your teeth. These generic appliances may not fit your dental structure correctly, leading to uneven pressure and an increased risk of teeth shifting. 

This highlights the importance of opting for a custom-fitted night guard that is tailored to your unique dental needs and properly fits your teeth and jaw. 

Uncommon Side Effects of Dental Night Guards

Infection

Infections can occur if you do not clean your dental night guard properly or maintain good oral hygiene. Bacteria can accumulate on the appliance, leading to potential infections in the mouth.

Moreover, some signs of an infection may include pain, swelling, or discharge around the affected area. If you suspect an infection, consult your dentist for appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics and guidance on proper night guard care.

Breathing Difficulties

In rare cases, a dental night guard may obstruct your airways, leading to breathing difficulties. This is more likely to occur with poorly fitted or bulky night guards. Ensure that your night guard fits properly to minimize the risk of breathing difficulties.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. An ill-fitting or misaligned night guard can cause TMJ pain, as it may place additional stress on the jaw joint. 

To prevent TMJ pain, it is crucial to have a night guard that is custom-made and properly fitted to your teeth and jaw. If you experience increased TMJ pain after starting to use a dental night guard, consult your dentist to discuss possible adjustments or alternative treatment options.

Importance of Professional Consultation

Seeking Advice From Dental Professionals

Each person’s dental structure and needs are unique, and it’s essential to consult a dental professional to determine the most appropriate type of night guard for your specific situation.

Moreover, a dentist can create a custom-fitted night guard tailored to your teeth and jaw, which will provide better comfort and effectiveness compared to over-the-counter options.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

With night guards, consistent dental check-ups will allow your dentist to monitor the effectiveness of your night guard and ensure that it continues to address your dental issues properly and efficiently.

It also provides an opportunity for your dentist to identify and address any side effects or complications related to your dental night guard use.

Tips for Reducing Side Effects and Ensuring Optimal Fit

Proper Cleaning and Maintenance

Keep your night guard clean by following your dentist’s recommendations for cleaning and disinfecting the instrument. This will help prevent the buildup of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. We also have an in depth article on proper dental night guard cleaning here.

Gradual Adaptation to Wearing the Night Guard

Allow yourself some time to adjust to the sensation of wearing a night guard. Start by wearing it for shorter periods and gradually increase the duration until you can wear it comfortably throughout the night.

Appropriate Storage and Handling

Store your night guard in a clean, dry case when not in use. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture to prevent warping or damage.

Recognizing When to Replace the Night Guard

Over time, dental night guards can wear down or become less effective. Consult your dentist if you notice any changes in fit or effectiveness, as it may be time for a replacement.

Conclusion

While dental night guards can effectively prevent teeth grinding, bruxism, and TMJ disorders, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. 

By following proper care and maintenance guidelines, consulting with dental professionals, and addressing any side effects or complications promptly, you can ensure that your dental night guard provides the protection and relief you need. 

Remember to seek personalized advice and care from your dentist to find the best solution for your unique dental needs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can a night guard cause jaw pain or make bruxism worse?

Yes, an ill-fitting dental night guard can sometimes cause jaw pain, tension, or worsen teeth grinding. This usually happens when the guard doesn’t align properly with your bite. Choosing a custom-fitted night guard from a dentist, or carefully selecting a high-quality over-the-counter option, helps prevent jaw discomfort and ensures the night guard protects rather than harms your teeth.

2. How do I stop a night guard from making my teeth hurt?

If your night guard makes your teeth sore, it may be too tight, poorly fitted, or the wrong type for your grinding or clenching pattern. Try adjusting to a softer guard, ensuring it’s properly molded, or consulting your dentist for a custom version. A properly fitted guard should feel comfortable after a short adjustment period and should not cause ongoing tooth pain.

3. Can wearing a night guard every night damage my teeth?

When properly fitted, wearing a night guard nightly is safe and highly recommended for bruxism. However, poorly made or worn-down guards can shift your bite, cause gum irritation, or trap bacteria. Regular cleaning, replacement when the guard shows wear, and dental check-ins help prevent long-term side effects while protecting your teeth from grinding damage.

4. How do I clean my dental night guard to avoid side effects?

Cleaning your night guard daily prevents bacteria buildup, bad breath, and gum irritation. Rinse it with lukewarm water after each use, gently brush with a soft toothbrush, and occasionally soak it in a non-abrasive cleaning solution. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material. Proper cleaning is one of the best ways to avoid night guard side effects and extend its lifespan.

References:

Bruxism Management, Updated March 2022

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism), from the NHS (UK), last reviewed June 2022

Teeth Grinding – what really happens when you fall asleep, September 2019

Unintended changes to the occlusion following the provision of night guards, October 2018

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Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post, including all text, graphics, and other material, is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. The content is not meant to be exhaustive or to apply to every individual’s specific situation.