Conditions · Mouthguards
Mouthguards
Night bite-guards — using and caring for one.
Night bite-guards (also called mouthguards or soft occlusal splints) are sometimes suggested to help people who clench or grind, or to protect fillings, crowns and veneers. Here is how to use, clean and replace one — and what they cost.
Dentist-made vs shop-bought
Mouthguards should always be made by a dentist, or bought with a dentist’s advice. Despite the claims on packaging, a shop-bought guard may not suit your situation and can cause problems — unwanted tooth movement (leaving only your back teeth meeting), jaw-joint pain, and trauma to your gums.
How to use your mouthguard
Dentists usually advise wearing it overnight. Always brush with a fluoride toothpaste and floss before putting it in, and again after taking it out. If it helps, keep using it; if it makes your symptoms worse, check with your dentist.
How to clean it
Use soap and warm water, perhaps with an old toothbrush. Never use boiling water — it can melt and deform the guard. Disinfecting tablets can be used up to twice a week.
When to replace it
Guards often last a few years, but soft ones lose their springiness over time. Replace yours when it becomes hard and uncomfortable, if you grind holes into the biting surface, or if it becomes stained and unsanitary.
How much do they cost?
On the NHS, soft occlusal guards and night bite-guards fall under the most expensive charge, Band 3. Some dentists offer them more cheaply privately, usually around £100–£200.
Text and further advice adapted from dentalchoices.org.
Watch
See how to use and care for a mouthguard
A short film on wearing a night bite-guard, keeping it clean, and knowing when to replace it.
Common questions
Mouthguards — your questions answered
What is a night bite-guard for?
To help people who clench or grind their teeth, and to protect fillings, crowns and veneers.
Can I just buy one from a shop?
Better not to — a guard that doesn’t fit your situation can move teeth or cause jaw pain. Have one made or advised by a dentist.
How do I clean it?
Soap and warm water (never boiling), with disinfecting tablets up to twice a week.
When should I replace it?
When it becomes hard and uncomfortable, gets holes in the biting surface, or becomes stained and unsanitary.
How much do they cost?
NHS Band 3, or roughly £100–£200 privately.
Protect your teeth at night
A well-made guard, kept clean, protects your teeth and your dental work.