Is it Better to Have a Night Guard on Top or Bottom Teeth?

If you’re dealing with teeth grinding, choosing the right night guard can feel overwhelming. Should it go on your top teeth or your bottom ones? Both options get the job done by protecting your teeth and jaw, but they each have their own perks. 

Why Does the Placement Matter?

The main goal of a night guard is to stop the damage from grinding (also called bruxism). But depending on your bite, teeth shape, and comfort preferences, one option might suit you better than the other.

If your dentist already recommended one type, that’s a good starting point! But understanding the differences can help you feel confident in your choice. If you’re still undecided, keep reading—we’ve got you covered.

Upper vs. Lower Night Guards: Key Differences

1. Comfort and Fit
   • Upper Night Guard: For 90% of our customers, this is the most common choice. It’s usually more secure because your upper teeth have a larger surface area to hold it in place. Plus, it keeps your tongue free to move naturally.
   • Lower Night Guard: If you have a sensitive gag reflex or crowded upper teeth, a lower guard might feel better. It takes up less space in your mouth, which some people find more comfortable.
2. Dental Issues
   • Upper Guards: Work better if your lower teeth are a bit “complicated” (like crooked, missing teeth, crowded teeth, dental wire, or multiple crowns).
   • Lower Guards: Ideal if your upper teeth are tricky—think braces, gaps, or crowns that make fitting a guard difficult.
   • Ultimately, the healthiest set of teeth are generally the most suitable.
3. Visibility
   • Upper Guards: More noticeable when you talk or smile. Not a big deal for nighttime use, but if you wear it during the day, you might care.
   • Lower Guards: These are sneakier. If you want to keep it low-key, a lower guard blends in better.
4. Sleeping Comfort
   • Upper Guards: These are a popular choice among users as they are less likely to make you drool
   • Lower Guards: Often better for those with gag reflex issues since, for some, they can feel less intrusive.

What About Speech and Saliva?

• Upper Guards: Better for cutting down on excessive saliva. They don’t interfere much with your tongue, but they might make some words harder to say.
• Lower Guards: These are easier to talk with since they don’t obstruct your tongue as much. For daytime use, a good rule of thumb is to choose the thinnest and most resilient guard that suits your needs for the most comfort.

Which Should you Choose?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Go for an Upper Night Guard if:

• You’re new to night guards.
• You’ve been recommended an upper by your dentist.
• Your lower teeth are crowded, crooked, or missing.
• You want maximum protection while you sleep.

Choose a Lower Night Guard if:

• You’re worried about gagging or find upper guards too uncomfortable.
• You’ve been recommended a lower by your dentist.
• You need to wear it during the day and want it to be discreet.
• Your upper teeth have crowns, braces, or other complications.

Both options can protect your teeth and jaw from damage. The real question is: which one feels right for you? Comfort and fit are key because if it’s annoying to wear, you’re less likely to use it.

If you’re still unsure, don’t sweat it—talk to your dentist. They can help you pick the guard that fits your bite, your budget, and your lifestyle. In the end, the best night guard is the one you’ll actually wear!