One of the problems that can be problematic for many people during the day and cause headaches, jaw pain, or even lead to the teeth becoming crowded or worn down over time is teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. One of the solutions that can protect your teeth from these problems, which you are looking for now, is a night guard for teeth grinding, a form of preventive dentistry.
Types of Night Guards and the Best Materials in 2026
The variety and designs of night guards are extensive, catering to different conditions and categorized as follows. This variety has also increased in recent years.
- Soft night guard: If you have mild teeth grinding or only occasionally grind your teeth, this model of night guard is right for you
- Hard night guard: These night guards are made of hard plastic and are highly resistant to wear and tear. This night guard is recommended for you if you grind your teeth severely.
- Hybrid Night Guard: As the name suggests, this night guard is a combination of the previous two-night guards, being soft on the inside and hard on the outside, which creates a good balance between comfort and durability.
Best Nightguard Brands in 2026
Here are some of the top nightguard brands that each perform well in a specific category:
| Brand | Category | Features | Suitable for… |
| ALIGNERCO | Sports & Teeth Grinding | Custom-made, very soft, and comfortable | People who grind their teeth and exercise |
| Shock Doctor | For Athletes | High safety for high-risk sports, pro & amateur use | Athletes in contact or high-impact sports |
| Smile Brilliant | For Sleep Disorders | Reduces snoring and improves sleep quality | People with sleep apnea or nighttime jaw pressure |
| Pro Teeth Guard | Best Custom, Affordable | Dentist-grade quality at a lower cost | Severe grinding, long-term protection |
| DenTek | Most Affordable Option | Simple, ready-to-use, beginner-friendly | Mild grinding or first-time users |
Custom or over-the-counter (OTC) nightguard?
You can get your night guard from a pharmacy or health centre without a doctor’s prescription, or you can have a completely custom night guard made based on your oral anatomy by a specialist. Below, we’ve reviewed both models for you.
| Type of Night Guard | Comfort & Cost | Suitable for… |
| Custom-made | High comfort, higher cost | Long-term use, severe bruxism |
| Over-the-counter (OTC) | Moderate comfort, more affordable; can be boiled and shaped at home | Temporary use, mild bruxism, or first-time users |
At Hemlock Dental Clinic in Vancouver, Dr. Alavi can recommend the best night guard for you by carefully examining the condition of your teeth. We also accept walk-in patients, so if you’re not sure which type is right for you, we’re happy to help.
Is it better to wear a night guard on your top or bottom teeth?
A frequently asked question is whether to use this night guard for the upper or lower teeth. Most people use a night guard for the upper teeth, but if you find the upper guard annoying, you can try a lower guard instead. It is also advisable to consult a doctor before using night guards.
How do you keep a night guard clean and healthy?
To prevent bad odours and bacterial accumulation in your night guard, follow these guidelines when using it.
- Rinse with lukewarm water after each use.
- Clean it gently with a soft toothbrush without toothpaste.
- Disinfect it once a week with special cleaning tablets.
- Store in a dry, well-ventilated area (away from tables and pets).
Keeping your night guard clean is important — but don’t forget that regular cleaning of your teeth and night guard is just as essential.Professional teeth cleaning can help prevent deeper issues that may not show up at home. If it’s been a while since your last check-up, feel free to call Hemlock Dental Clinic at 604-738-9202 for a consultation or to book a gentle cleaning. You can also learn more in our article: dental cleaning Vancouver BC.
My Experience with Teeth Grinding — And How Hemlock Dental Helped Me Sleep Again
I didn’t realize how much my teeth grinding was affecting my life until the headaches, jaw tension, and interrupted sleep became impossible to ignore. I searched for a nearby clinic and came across Hemlock Dental Clinic in Vancouver—and honestly, I wasn’t expecting much. I just hoped someone could help.
The moment I walked in, I was surprised. The clinic was spotless, the staff incredibly warm and welcoming, and I didn’t have to wait long at all. But what really made the difference was the consultation with the dentist.
Instead of rushing through, the doctor actually took time to explain what was happening with my teeth, why I was grinding them in my sleep, and how a custom night guard could protect them and relieve the tension in my jaw. It was the first time someone had made it all make sense.
I left not only with a clear plan but also with peace of mind.
If you’re struggling with teeth grinding like I was, I truly recommend starting with a proper consultation—and for me, Hemlock Dental made all the difference.
Possible side effects of nightguards
Using a nightguard is generally safe, but it can be a little annoying in the first few days:
- Increased salivation or dry mouth
- A feeling of discomfort or tightness in the jaw, especially with ready-made models
- Cracking or breaking in low-quality models
By choosing a custom-made nightguard from a dentist, you can avoid most of these problems.
Is a nightguard enough on its own?
A nightguard is a great way to protect your teeth, but it doesn’t treat the underlying cause of your teeth grinding. For example, if your teeth grinding is caused by stress, try stress management techniques. Alternatively, suppose you suspect you have sleep apnea (for instance, you snore heavily or feel tired during the day). In that case, you may require a specialized sleep apnea device that positions your jaw or tongue in a more comfortable position.
Some people use dental splints instead of nightguards, which hold the jaw in place slightly more securely. There are various treatment options, so be sure to consult with your dentist if you feel that a nightguard alone isn’t sufficient.
For more information, visit MouthHealthy.org.
how do I know if I really need a custom night guard, or if an over-the-counter one will do the job?
Dr. Farahnaz Alavi (Hemlock Dental Clinic, Vancouver) explains the differences between custom night guards and OTC/boil-and-bite options for managing bruxism (teeth grinding)—covering symptom recognition, TMJ considerations, and choosing the best material and thickness to protect your teeth
A final word of advice from Dr Alavi and our team
At Hemlock Dental Clinic ( dental in vancouver ), we emphasize prevention and personal care. If you need a nightguard but aren’t sure which model is right for you, feel free to stop by or give us a call.
We offer a comprehensive range of dental exams and cleanings, and we can help you select the best device to enhance your sleep and protect your smile. Your oral health is our top priority, and we want you to experience a restful, jaw-free night’s sleep.
