What Are Night Guards Made Of? A Guide to Night Guard Materials
Updated with the latest information and research
Night guards are dental devices designed to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching while you sleep. They create a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, helping reduce the pressure and wear caused by bruxism.
But what are night guards made of? The material matters because it can affect how comfortable, flexible, and durable your night guard is.
Let's take a closer look at common night guard materials and what to look for when choosing one.
📑 Table of Contents
Common Materials Used in Night Guards
Night guards can be made from different types of plastics and polymers. Some are soft and flexible, while others are more rigid and durable.
| Night Guard Material | Flexibility | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| EVA | High | Flexible and shock-absorbing |
| Thermoplastic | Varies | Can be softened and reshaped with heat |
| Acrylic | Low | Rigid and durable |
EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)
EVA, or ethylene vinyl acetate, is a flexible, rubber-like material commonly used in mouthguards and dental appliances. It can help absorb and dissipate force, making it a practical choice for protective dental appliances.
Research on EVA used for mouthguards found that its shock-absorbing properties can vary based on factors like thickness and temperature. Its flexibility and cushioning can make it comfortable to wear while still providing protection.
Thermoplastic Copolyester
Thermoplastic copolyester is a flexible material that can be softened with heat and reshaped when needed. This makes thermoplastics useful for products that need to be molded into different shapes.
For dental appliances, this flexibility can help create a custom fit while still providing a durable barrier between the teeth. Its performance can vary depending on the specific type of thermoplastic and how the appliance is designed.
Methyl Methacrylate
Methyl methacrylate (MMA) is a chemical used to make acrylic materials, including some dental appliances. It is also found in products such as acrylic nails, plexiglass, and other plastic materials.
According to the EPA, MMA has been evaluated for its potential health effects, while the Methacrylate Producers Association provides additional information on its use and safety. For dental appliances, proper manufacturing and curing are important to ensure the material is suitable for use. Soft night guards, on the other hand, are typically made without MMA.
Materials to Check When Choosing a Night Guard
The main material isn't the only thing worth checking. If you have allergies or concerns about certain chemicals, look at the product's material specifications before buying.
BPA
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used to make certain plastics and resins. While BPA isn't a primary material in most modern dental appliances, some products may contain trace amounts. If this is a concern for you, look for night guards clearly labeled BPA-free.
For a deeper look at BPA and night guards, check out our guide to Is Your Night Guard Safe? BPA in Oral Appliances Explained
Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals commonly used to make plastics more flexible. They can be found in a variety of everyday products, so some people prefer to choose dental appliances that are labeled phthalate-free.
Latex
Latex is a material worth checking if you have a latex allergy or sensitivity. While many night guards aren't made with latex, checking the product's material information can help you identify and avoid potential allergens.
You may also want to check whether a dental appliance contains or comes into contact with gluten-containing materials if you need to avoid gluten. See our guides on Are Night Guards Latex-Free? Risks & Safety Explained and Are ClearClub Night Guards Celiac Safe? | ClearClub for more information.
Why Does Night Guard Material Matter?
Your night guard stays in your mouth for several hours while you sleep, so the material can affect more than just comfort.
- Safety: Check what materials are used and whether they're clearly disclosed.
- Comfort: A guard that's too bulky or rigid may be difficult to wear consistently.
- Durability: It should be able to handle repeated grinding and clenching.
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Fit: A properly fitted guard should stay securely in place without causing unnecessary discomfort.
The material is important, but it's only one part of the equation. Thickness, design, and fit can also affect how a night guard feels and performs.
If you're considering buying a night guard online, learn more about what to look for in our guide to Are Online Night Guards a Scam? 8 Red Flags to Watch For
Why Choose a Custom Night Guard from ClearClub
ClearClub offers custom night guards designed for a comfortable, personalized fit. Choose your preferred color and thickness, then send in your dental impression so your guard can be made to fit your teeth.
Our night guards are made with FDA-approved, BPA-free, latex-free, and non-allergenic materials, so you know what goes into your dental appliance. You can also maintain a steady supply of replacements with our convenient renewal plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What are night guards made of?
Night guards can be made from different materials, including EVA, thermoplastic copolyester, and acrylic. The material used can affect the guard's flexibility, durability, comfort, and ability to absorb force.
❓ Are EVA night guards safe?
EVA is a flexible, rubber-like material commonly used in mouthguards and dental appliances. Research has found that EVA has good shock-absorbing and force-dissipating properties, making it a practical material for protective dental appliances.
❓ What should I look for in a night guard?
Start by checking the material, fit, thickness, and overall design of the night guard. It's also helpful to check whether it contains materials you may want to avoid, such as BPA, phthalates, or latex, especially if you have a sensitivity or allergy.
Looking for something else? Check our full FAQ section.