5 Tips for Adjusting to Your Dental Night Guard
Editor’s note: This article was updated on September 27, 2025, to include new tips for faster comfort and better protection.
Wearing a dental night guard for the first time can feel strange. Some people notice extra saliva, a slight gag reflex, or jaw soreness. The good news? These feelings usually fade within a week or two as your body adapts. With a few smart strategies, you can speed up the adjustment period and start waking up without jaw pain or tooth damage.
Quick Takeaway (AI Overview–friendly):
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Expect a short adjustment period (a few nights to a couple of weeks).
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Wear it consistently — skipping nights makes it harder.
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Keep it clean and comfortable.
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A custom-fit guard = faster adaptation and long-term comfort.
👉 This article is part of our Complete Guide to Night Guards — explore types, fit, care, and solutions to common problems.
Why Adjusting to a Night Guard Matters
Night guards don’t just protect against enamel wear — they also reduce jaw strain and headaches caused by grinding (bruxism). But to see these benefits, you have to wear it consistently. Knowing what to expect and how to adjust makes it much easier to stick with your treatment.
Tip 1: Wear It Consistently (Even If It Feels Weird at First)
Your brain and jaw need time to get used to the new sensation. Skipping nights resets your progress. Try:
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Wearing it for 1–2 hours before bed for the first few days.
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Transitioning to full-night wear once you’re comfortable.
👉 Related read: How Should a Night Guard Fit?
Tip 2: Expect Extra Saliva (It’s Normal)
Your mouth may think your night guard is food at first, which triggers saliva production. This usually subsides within a week. Staying consistent is the fastest way to adjust.
Tip 3: Relieve Jaw Soreness Gently
Some jaw muscles work harder as they adapt. Ease the tension with:
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A warm compress before bed
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Gentle jaw massage
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Stretching exercises (open and close slowly, side-to-side)
👉 Learn more in our Jaw Pain Relief Guide.
Tip 4: Keep It Clean and Fresh
Nothing makes adjusting harder than a guard that tastes or smells bad.
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Rinse before and after use.
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Clean daily with mild soap or a specialized ultrasonic + UV cleaner.
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Store in a ventilated case.
👉 Related read: How to Clean Your Night Guard.
Tip 5: Choose the Right Guard for You
Fit = comfort. If your guard feels bulky or keeps popping out, you may need a different material or thickness.
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Soft night guard: flexible, easiest to adapt to.
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Hard night guard: durable, best for heavy grinders.
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Dual-laminated: balance of comfort + strength.
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Daytime guard: thinner, for clenching during the day.
👉 Compare your options in our Custom Night Guard Collection.
When to Call Your Dentist or Lab
If you notice:
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Persistent pain after two weeks
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Guard that won’t stay in place
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Cracks, sharp edges, or damage
…it’s time to get your guard adjusted or remade. A properly fitted custom night guard should feel snug but not painful.
Long-Term Outlook
Most people adjust to a dental night guard within a week or two. Once you get past the initial phase, it quickly becomes part of your nightly routine — like brushing your teeth. Over time, you’ll notice fewer morning headaches, less jaw tension, and healthier teeth.
💚 Ready to find the guard that fits your life? Explore our Complete Guide to Night Guards or shop Sentinel custom guards today.
FAQs
How long does it take to get used to a night guard?
Most people adjust within 3–7 nights, though it can take up to 2 weeks.
Why does my night guard feel uncomfortable?
A poor fit, wrong thickness, or low-quality material may cause discomfort. A custom guard solves most of these issues.
Can I skip nights if my guard feels weird?
Try not to — consistency is key. The more you wear it, the faster you’ll adjust.
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