Night Guard vs. Sports Mouthguard: What’s the Difference?

Night guards and sports mouthguards both protect your teeth, but they’re designed for very different jobs. Using the wrong one can leave your teeth unprotected.

Night guards: for grinding and clenching

A night guard is thin and fitted to your teeth. It’s worn while you sleep to take the force of grinding or clenching, protecting your teeth from wear and cracks and easing strain on your jaw.

Sports mouthguards: for impact

A sports mouthguard is thicker and cushioned. It’s worn during contact sports and activities where a fall or blow to the face is possible, helping protect against broken teeth and injuries to the lips and cheeks.

Why you shouldn’t swap them

A night guard isn’t built to absorb impact, and a bulky sports guard isn’t designed to be worn comfortably all night. Each works best for its own purpose.

Custom vs. store-bought

Store-bought guards are made to fit everyone, so they’re often bulky and can shift. A custom guard is made from impressions of your teeth, so it fits precisely, feels more comfortable, and tends to last longer.

Not sure which you need? Ask at your next visit, and we’ll help you choose.

Learn about custom night guards

This article is general information and isn't a substitute for a dental exam. Have a question about your own teeth? Call us at (410) 747-7495.