Which Night Guard Is Right for You?
Hard, Soft, or Dual—A Clinician’s Guide

Whether you grind your teeth occasionally or suffer from chronic bruxism, choosing the right night guard can make all the difference in protecting your smile (and your sleep!). In this post, we’ll break down the three main types of night guards—Hard, Soft, and Dual—so you can confidently discuss options with your dentist (or JU Genesis Lab) and find the perfect fit for your needs.

🦷 Hard Night Guards: Maximum Protection

Who it’s for: Severe bruxers or patients with strong bite forces
Material: High‑density acrylic (PMMA)
Why you’ll love it:

• Superior durability prevents enamel wear and fractures

• Promotes long‑term periodontal health

• Digital scanning + 3D printing ensure a snug, custom fit

Potential drawbacks:

• Short adjustment period required

• Possible soft‑tissue irritation initially

😌 Soft Night Guards: Comfort First

Who it’s for: Mild bruxism or TMD sufferers
Material: Flexible EVA (ethylene‑vinyl acetate)
Why you’ll love it:

• Immediate comfort with minimal oral irritation

• Easy to wear—even if you’re new to night guards

Potential drawbacks:

• Less durable—needs replacing more often

• Risk of tooth movement if grinding is moderate to severe

🔄 Dual (Hybrid) Night Guards: Best of Both Worlds

Who it’s for: Moderate to severe grinders who want comfort + protection
Material: Rigid acrylic exterior + soft inner liner
Why you’ll love it:

• Combines the strength of a hard guard with the cushioning of a soft liner

• Excellent for managing TMD symptoms

Potential drawbacks:

• Higher cost

• More complex fabrication process

Designing Your Perfect Fit

Your mouth is one‑of‑a‑kind—and your night guard should be too. Key design considerations include:

At JU Genesis Lab, we harness digital scans, T‑Scan occlusal analysis, and precision CAD/CAM manufacturing to tailor every detail of your night guard.

The JU Genesis Lab Process

1. Comprehensive Assessment: Bruxism severity, periodontal health, occlusal dynamics

2. Custom Design: Digital scans determine coverage, thickness, and retention

3. Precision Fabrication: Premium materials + 3D printing for lasting comfort

Which One Should You Choose?

Ready to Protect Your Smile?

Talk to your dentist about which night guard fits your lifestyle and grinding habits—or reach out to JU Genesis Lab for a personalized consultation. Sleep peacefully knowing your teeth are safeguarded, night after night!