Expert: Joel S. Teig, DMD, Diplomate ABOMS, retired - 12/11/2009

Question
Greetings Dr. Joel Teig: I believe I am clenching at night but I am not certain as I am not aware while sleeping. I bought a night guard from sleep right, which is over the counter. Well, that night guard happens to be a bit too big for my mouth, so my jaws are like spread a bit or my mouth is spread a bit because of the large size. You can adjust it to 3 sizes. Even the smallest size is a bit too big for my mouth. I have worn it for 2 days now, and my jaws are sore. After awhile, it does'nt get sore, but is it normal for my jaws to get sore? Is it a good idea to keep wearing it? I can't afford a custom made guard right now, and plus I'm not sure if I'm even clenching or not. Do you see any disadvantages to wear this night guard? Will I develop jaw issues if I keep wearing it? Thank you.

Answer
Karen -  You need to immediately stop using that guard.  Over the counter guards are not usually effective in fully treating the clenching or the cause of it.  The continued use is starting to cause muscular stiffness and the soreness you are experiencing.  If you continue to wear it it can cause some real damage. If you are unable to see a dentist to fully evaluate the need for a guard, it is probably safest to just not use one.

With time jaw issues will develop if the night guard you have is continued to be used.   If you have any further questions, feel free to contact me again.