If you grind your teeth while you sleep, your dentist may suggest wearing a night guard. While the device can protect your teeth from damage, it may not be comfortable to wear initially. Here are a few tips to adjust to wearing it.

4 Ways to Get Used to a Night Guard

1. Get a Custom Fit

While night guards are available over the counter, they may not fit you properly, which can cause pressure and soreness. You may want to spend a little extra on a custom fit guard.

During a dental visit, your dentist will make a mold of your teeth and create a device that fits inside your mouth perfectly. Custom guards are typically made from acrylic, which is long-lasting and durable. 

2. Clean the Device

Night guards have to be cleaned regularly to remove bacteria and odors. If they’re not, the bacteria can increase your risk of tooth decay. 

After you take off your guard in the morning, rinse it with warm water. If there are any lingering debris, carefully remove them with your toothbrush.

Let the device dry completely before putting it in its case to prevent bacterial growth. Clean your night guard once a month with an over-the-counter, non-abrasive denture cleaner.

3. Wear Your Guard During the Day

When you first start wearing a guard at night, it feels like something foreign is in your mouth. An effective way to adjust to the feeling is to wear it for a couple of hours in the evening until it starts to feel comfortable. Your brain will start to accept this appliance, and it might not feel so strange when you wear it to bed.

4. Stick With It

If you don’t adjust to your guard within a few days, don't get discouraged. It often takes weeks for your body and brain to get used to this device. Stick with it for at least one month and you will create a habit by then. If you’re still unable to get used to your guard, your dentist can discuss alternative therapies with you, like biofeedback or occlusal splints.

 

If you’re considering a night guard, turn to the professionals at Premier Dental in London, KY. These dentists have been serving the community for over 30 years and offer a wide range of services, from routine cleanings to dental implants. They will create a personalized treatment plan to help you reach your dental goals. If you would like to learn more information about their services, call (606) 877 3002 or visit their website.