Soft night guards vs. Hard night guards: Which is more comfortable?

If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity, chances are you may be grinding your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism. One of the most effective teeth grinding prevention tools is a custom night guard designed to maximize comfort during sleep and reduce long-term dental wear.

In this blog, we will explore the different types of night guards, their pros and cons, which one may offer the best comfort and protection for your needs, and whether you should choose a soft night guard or a hard night guard.

Types of night guards

Night guards are fabricated in dental labs using teeth impressions for a custom fit. The following are three main types of night guards.

Soft night guards

If you prioritize night guard comfort, soft night guards are the best choice as they are made up of soft materials like modified ethyl methacrylate, silicone, or a similar elastomer. These night guards are thinner than hard night guards, providing a comfortable fit and are recommended for patients with mild bruxism.

Pros

Cons

Hard night guards

Hard night guards for bruxism are thicker than soft night guards. These are made up of tougher plastic material, usually acrylic and copolyester. These night guards are designed to withstand the force of grinding and clenching. Orthodontists often recommend them for individuals who suffer from frequent or intense grinding. These night guards reduce the risk of TMJ problems and protect your teeth against intense grinding and clenching.

Pros

Cons:

Hybrid night guards

Hybrid night guards combine a soft inner layer with a hard outer shell, striking a balance between comfort and protection for restful sleep. For those wanting both protection and night guard comfort, a hybrid guard offers a middle ground.

Pros:

Cons:

Soft vs. Hard night guard for grinding

When talking about fit, soft night guards have the most comfortable fit and are ideal for first-time users or individuals with mild bruxism. On the other hand, hard night guards are less comfortable at first due to their rigidity, but they offer superior protection against teeth grinding and clenching. When comparing soft vs. hard night guards for grinding, soft guards may lack the durability needed for long-term use.

Here is a brief comparison to help you decide which type of night guard best suits your needs.

Caspersmile night guards

Caspersmile has a variety of night guards, suitable for mild to severe cases. Let's explore each night guard available on Caspersmile in detail.

Soft night guard - for light grinding and clenching

Caspersmile soft night guard is perfect for light teeth grinders. Crafted from soft, flexible 3mm EVA plastic, these night guards cushion your teeth gently, allowing for a natural feel so you wake up refreshed, not sore.

Best for:

Hard night guard - for severe teeth grinding

Caspersmile hard night guard for bruxism offers maximum protection without compromising on comfort. Made from 2mm of PETG plastic for robust protection against severe teeth grinding.

Best for:

Dual-layer hybrid night guard - comfort meets strength

Caspersmile hybrid night guard combines a soft, comfortable inner layer with a tough outer shell, perfect for those who need serious protection against intense teeth grinding while still offering a soothing fit.

Best for:

Protect your smile with Caspersmile night guards

Custom-fit solutions designed to address everything from light teeth grinding to severe jaw clenching.

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Finding the right night guard for your smile

Choosing the right night guard ultimately depends on the severity of your bruxism and your comfort preferences. If you're new to night guards or have mild grinding, a soft night guard offers the gentle, adaptable fit you need for a peaceful night's sleep.

For more severe grinding or diagnosed TMJ, a hard night guard provides the durability and protection necessary to prevent long-term damage, even if it takes a little time to get used to. And if you're looking for the best of both worlds, hybrid night guards are the best night guards for comfort with strength for all-night protection. Caspersmile's night guards are a tailored range of soft, hard, and hybrid night guards that ensure a perfect fit for every level of grinding, helping you sleep better, wake up pain-free, and protect your smile for the long run.

FAQs

Are hard or soft splints better for bruxism? +

It depends on the severity of your bruxism. Soft splints are better for mild cases. Hard splints are ideal for moderate to severe bruxism. They're more durable and offer better protection.

Which night guard is more comfortable? +

Soft night guards are generally considered more comfortable, especially for first-time users. However, they may not last as long or offer the level of protection needed for intense grinding.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of hard acrylic guards vs. soft guards? +

Soft acrylic guards offer a more comfortable fit, ideal for mild grinding issues. Whereas, hard acrylic guards are best to treat intense teeth grinding and have a longer lifespan than soft guards.

Is a hard night guard better than a soft night guard? +

A hard night guard is better if you grind your teeth severely. Whereas, a soft night guard is best for mild teeth grinding and prioritizes comfort. Hard night guards offer longer-lasting protection than soft night guards.

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