Soft night guards can sometimes increase clenching in certain patients. This phenomenon occurs because the soft material of the night guard can create a chewing or clenching response in the muscles of the jaw. The soft texture may feel similar to something that can be chewed, which can lead to an increase in clenching or grinding, particularly in patients who already have a tendency to do so.
Here are the reasons:
1. Material Feedback: The softness of the material can trigger the jaw muscles to engage more actively, as if the patient were chewing on something pliable. This can lead to increased muscle activity, resulting in more clenching or grinding.
2. Rebound Effect: For some patients, the initial comfort of a soft night guard can lead to a subconscious increase in jaw muscle activity. Over time, this can exacerbate the very issues the night guard is meant to alleviate.
3. Lack of Resistance: Soft night guards don’t provide the same level of resistance as hard guards, which might not give the necessary feedback to the muscles to reduce clenching. In some cases, the lack of resistance may allow the jaw to engage in more clenching without the patient being fully aware of it.
Considerations:
If a patient is experiencing increased clenching or discomfort with a soft night guard, it might be advisable to reassess the type of night guard being used. A hard night guard might be more suitable for such patients, as it can offer better control over the bite and reduce the likelihood of increased muscle activity. Additionally, a custom-fitted hard night guard can be designed to help minimize clenching and grinding by stabilizing the bite more effectively.
In cases where a soft night guard is causing increased clenching, it is essential to address the issue promptly, as prolonged clenching can lead to further dental complications such as tooth wear, jaw pain, or temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD).