Hard Soft Occlusal Guard: The Ultimate Guide
When it comes to protecting your teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching, choosing the right occlusal guard is essential. The Hard Soft Occlusal Guard offers a unique combination of durability and comfort, featuring a rigid outer layer for long-lasting protection and a soft inner layer for a comfortable, custom fit.
These ideals for both daytime and nighttime use, this dual-layer guard helps prevent tooth wear, reduce jaw pain, and minimize the risk of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Soft Night Guard
A soft night guard is designed to fit comfortably over your teeth, providing a gentle and lightweight feel as if you are wearing nothing at all. Made from FDA-approved dental-grade plastics such as modified ethyl methacrylate or silicone, this type of night guard is ideal for patients with sensitive teeth.
A clear soft occlusal guard made of flexible material
While soft and flexible, a soft night guard is still effective for protecting against mild to moderate or occasional teeth grinding (bruxism). However, due to its pliable texture, some wearers may unintentionally chew on it, which can increase grinding activity. The thin, soft design also means it may need to be replaced more frequently compared to other options.
Because of its porous structure, a soft night guard can be more difficult to clean and requires consistent hygiene to prevent bacterial buildup. Soft guards are also beneficial for patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, as they help reduce stress on the jaw joint, alleviate facial pain, and improve jaw function.
At VTA Dental Lab, our soft night guards are crafted from premium, USA-sourced dental materials. They are free from BPA, latex, and phthalates, ensuring both safety and comfort.
Hard Night Guard
When bruxism becomes too severe for a soft guard to handle, a hard night guard is often the best choice. Recommended for patients with moderate to heavy teeth grinding or clenching, this rigid appliance is made from acrylic or similar durable materials.
Hard occlusal guards are thicker and stronger, reducing jaw muscle activity while effectively protecting teeth from wear and damage. Their sturdy construction provides long-lasting durability compared to soft guards. However, because of their bulkier design, patients may need an adjustment period to get used to the fit and feel.
3D illustration of a hard occlusal guard covering the entire dental arch for maximum protection
Although less comfortable than soft guards, a hard occlusal guard is highly effective for patients who require strong protection, including those with advanced TMJ symptoms. At VTA Dental Lab, our hard guards are precision-made to absorb heavy bite forces and safeguard teeth against long-term damage.
Hard Soft Occlusal Guard
A hard soft occlusal guard combines the best of both worlds. Using a dual-layer design, the outer hard shell provides durability and resistance against heavy grinding, while the inner soft layer ensures a comfortable, customised fit.
This hybrid night guard delivers superior comfort, long-lasting wear, and effective protection against bruxism-related damage. Made from high-quality, FDA-approved, biocompatible materials that are free from acrylic, our hard and soft occlusal guards are designed to minimize irritation while maximizing strength and resilience.
Close-up of a transparent hard-soft occlusal guard with a rigid outer layer and a soft inner lining
In Conclusion
Both soft and hard occlusal guards have their own advantages depending on the severity of teeth grinding and the needs of the patient. The hard soft occlusal guard offers a balanced solution, combining comfort with durability for long-term protection.
While over-the-counter mouthguards are available, they cannot match the precision, safety, and effectiveness of professionally made appliances. For the best results, consult with VTA Dental Lab. Our clinical experts provide consistent, high-quality solutions—including custom 3D-printed hard, soft, and hybrid occlusal guards—to ensure your patients receive optimal protection and comfort.