A new night guard is making my jaw sorer
New night guards often cause temporary soreness as your jaw adjusts, but persistent pain isn't normal. An adjustment visit can usually fix the fit and bite alignment quickly.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jose, DDS — October 10, 2026
Why Your New Night Guard Might Be Causing Jaw Pain
A night guard is designed to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching, but when it first arrives, your jaw needs time to adapt. Some tenderness in the first 3–5 days is expected as the muscles adjust to the new pressure and your bite changes slightly.
However, pain that worsens or lingers beyond a week isn’t something to ignore. Your guard may need adjustment — and that’s a quick, routine fix.
Common Reasons for Increased Soreness
Uneven bite contact: If the guard touches some teeth more firmly than others, it can shift your jaw into an awkward position at night. This strains the jaw muscles and joints.
Pressure points: Sometimes the edges or internal fit of the guard press on sensitive areas of your gums or inner cheeks, causing localized pain that radiates to the jaw.
Tightness: A guard that’s too snug restricts your jaw’s natural movement and fatigues the muscles.
Temporary muscle adjustment: Your jaw muscles may protest the new routine, similar to soreness after a workout. This usually fades within days if the fit is correct.
What You Should Do
Schedule an adjustment visit within a few days. Don’t wait weeks hoping it will improve on its own. Your dentist can:
- Inspect how the guard sits on your teeth
- Check your bite alignment with the guard in place
- Identify and relieve pressure points
- Adjust the fit or re-fit the guard if needed
- Verify the guard isn’t causing your jaw to shift into an uncomfortable position
Most adjustments take 15–30 minutes and provide immediate relief.
Caring for Your Guard While You Wait
- Wear it only at night for now (unless your dentist advised otherwise)
- Remove it if pain becomes sharp or unbearable
- Rinse it daily with lukewarm water and store it in its case
- Avoid chewing on the guard or grinding your teeth against it during the day
Night Guard vs. Occlusal Splint
If your dentist mentions an occlusal splint, know that it’s similar to a night guard but is often custom-molded to a higher degree and may be adjusted differently. Both serve to reduce grinding and jaw strain, but the distinction matters for how adjustments are made. Learn more about night guards and occlusal splints to understand which device your dentist recommends and why.
When to Seek Care
Contact your dentist right away if you experience:
- Sharp or severe jaw pain that doesn’t ease
- Significant swelling or visible bruising on your jaw
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Pain that radiates into your ear or down your neck
- Pain that’s worse after a week of wearing the guard
How MediMouth Helps
If you’re experiencing soreness with a new night guard, find a dentist in our network who can examine the fit and make adjustments. Many providers offer quick refinement appointments at no extra cost during the break-in period. You can also ask for a second opinion if you’re unsure whether your pain is typical — our directory makes it easy to compare providers and see reviews from other patients.
Remember: a well-fitted night guard should protect your teeth without causing lasting discomfort. An adjustment visit is the fastest path to wearing your guard pain-free.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for a new night guard to cause jaw soreness?
Some mild discomfort in the first few days is common as your jaw adjusts to wearing the guard at night. However, if soreness gets worse or doesn't improve after a week, contact your dentist. Don't assume it will resolve on its own — an adjustment visit can often fix the problem quickly.
What could be causing the increased soreness?
Common causes include the guard shifting your bite slightly, uneven contact between your teeth and the guard, or the guard being too tight. Your dentist can inspect the fit and make refinements to relieve pressure points.
Should I stop wearing the night guard while it hurts?
Stopping completely isn't ideal if you grind or clench at night — you lose the protective benefit. Instead, schedule an adjustment appointment within a few days. Your dentist can modify the guard's fit or bite alignment so you can wear it comfortably again.