How to Make a Soft Nightguard

If you suffer from bruxism (clinching or grinding of the teeth) or TemporoMandibular Dysfunction (pain in the joint and surrounding muscles), consider wearing a nightguard to mitigate the symptoms (see Reference 1). A soft nightguard is best for mild symptoms (see Reference 1). If you suffer more severe symptoms, you will likely wear through a soft nightguard (see Reference 1). There are numerous ways to make a soft nightguard; the method below represents perhaps the best mix of cost savings and quality.

Instructions

• 1

  Order a home impression kit. If your nightguard does not fit your individual teeth, it may do more harm than good (see Reference 3). Thus, order a home impression kit so that you can make a nightguard to fit your specific bite. There are several companies from which you can obtain an impression kit (see Resource below), including many companies that offer the kits over the counter at retailers like CVS. Impression kits are unlikely to differ greatly.

• 2

  Take your impression. When you receive your kit, it will contain a piece of putty. The putty is to be rolled into a shape like your finger (see Resource 1). The putty is then placed into the mouth tray (also included in the kit) and the tray is placed into your mouth, over either the lower or upper teeth, whichever has less wear (see Resource 1). You then bite down into the tray and hold the position for two to four minutes.

• 3

  Send the impressions to a dental laboratory. It is best to send the impressions to a lab that belongs to the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL). The NADL sets certain industry standards for its members (see Reference 2). The benefit of sending your impression to a dental laboratory is that you get a quality nightguard at a cheaper cost (you are cutting out the dental bills).

• 4

  Use caution. A poorly made nightguard can actually increase the pain or problems associated with bruxism (see Reference 3). Moreover, a nightguard that does not fit properly is less likely to be worn consistently (see Reference 3). Thus, take the time to find a legitimate dental lab and try the nightguard out. If it does not fit properly, take another impression. In the end, your smile will thank you.