Hard or Soft Nightguard? A Guide to Bruxism Splints

Patients who grind or clench need a nightguard that protects their teeth and is comfortable enough to actually wear. But “nightguard” covers a few different appliances, and the right one depends on the patient. Here’s a quick guide.

Soft nightguards

Made from a flexible material, soft guards are comfortable and quick to get used to, which makes them a good entry point for mild grinding or for patients who are nervous about wearing an appliance. The trade-off is durability: heavy grinders can chew through a soft guard, and some clench harder against a soft surface.

Hard nightguards

Rigid acrylic guards are far more durable and are the go-to for moderate to heavy bruxism. They protect the teeth well and hold their shape, though they take a little longer to get used to than a soft guard.

Dual-laminate (hard-soft) guards

These give you the best of both: a soft, comfortable inner surface against the teeth and a hard, hard-wearing outer shell. They’re a popular middle ground for patients who find hard guards uncomfortable but need more protection than a soft guard offers.

Getting the fit right

Whichever type you prescribe, fit is everything. A guard that’s even slightly off will be left in the drawer — so it needs to seat accurately and feel secure. That’s down to a good impression or scan and careful finishing in the lab.

How we make them

We make hard, soft and dual-laminate splints and nightguards to your prescription, finished and checked by hand, with free 3D-printed models included. Send a scan or an impression and we’ll do the rest.

See the full range: bruxism splints and nightguards, or request our price list.