Traveling with a Night Guard: Tips & Tricks
1st Aug 2025
Bringing your night guard on a trip? It’s a smart move—especially if you grind or clench your teeth at night. But traveling with it can raise a few questions: How do you pack it? Can you clean it on the go? Is it okay to bring through airport security?
In this guide, you’ll learn how to pack, clean, and protect your night guard while traveling—plus what to do if it gets lost or damaged.
How to Pack and Store Your Night Guard While Traveling
Protecting your night guard while traveling is easy with a little planning. Here’s how to keep it safe on the go:
Use a hard, ventilated case
Choose a sturdy case with ventilation holes. It protects your night guard from being crushed and helps prevent moisture buildup that can lead to bacteria.
Keep it in your carry-on
Pack your night guard in your carry-on bag, not your checked luggage. This way, you avoid the risk of it getting lost, delayed, or damaged.
Avoid sharp or heavy items
Don’t place the case near sharp objects like razors or under heavy items. This prevents scratches, bending, or cracks.
Pack a spare case
Bring an extra case just in case the original gets misplaced or broken. If you don’t have a backup, a resealable plastic bag can work temporarily.
Related Articles:
- Dental Tourism for a Night Guard
- How To Remove Calcium Buildup On Night Guards
- How Long Does A Night Guard Last?
How to Clean and Maintain Your Night Guard While Traveling
Keeping your night guard clean on the go is easy with a few simple steps:
Use travel-friendly cleaning options
No special cleaner? Use mild soap and a soft toothbrush. Rinse with clean water, gently brush, and rinse again. You can also use disposable cleaning wipes made for dentures or night guards. They’re water-free and great for quick cleanups.
Denture tablets are another easy option—just dissolve one in a cup of water and soak your night guard.
Use bottled water if needed
If local tap water isn’t safe to drink, don’t use it to rinse your night guard. Use bottled water instead to avoid bacteria or contamination.
Keep it dry when not in use
Dry your night guard before storing it. A well-ventilated case helps keep moisture out and prevents bacteria from growing.
Pro Tip: Pack a small microfiber towel—it dries your night guard fast and folds up small, making it perfect for travel.
Related Article:
What to Do If You Lose or Break Your Night Guard While Traveling
Losing or breaking your night guard while away from home can be frustrating, but there are quick solutions to help you manage the situation until you return.
Carry a Backup Night Guard
If possible, bring a spare night guard with you. This is the easiest way to avoid disruptions in your routine if your primary one gets lost or damaged.
Order a Replacement from Your Provider
If you lose your night guard, check if your provider can ship a replacement to your location. Some providers keep digital impressions on file, making it easy to reorder a new one.
Use a Temporary Over-the-Counter Night Guard
If you can’t get a replacement right away, consider using a boil-and-bite night guard from a local pharmacy. While not as comfortable as a custom-fit night guard, it can provide temporary protection until you get home.
Store Your Dentist’s Contact Info
If you have a dental issue while traveling, it helps to have your dentist’s contact information saved on your phone. They can advise you on the best course of action if you’re unable to find a quick replacement.
- Most Popular
- Hard Outside, Soft Inside
- 2MM Thick
- Moderate / Heavy
- Most Durable
- Hard Materials
- 1.5MM Thick
- Heavy / Severe
- For Day Time Use
- Thin, Barely Visible
- 1MM Thick
- Light / Moderate
- For Clenching
- Flexible & Soft
- 1.5MM Thick
- Light / Moderate
Climate & Environmental Considerations
Traveling to different climates? Here’s how to protect your night guard:
Watch out for heat
High temperatures can warp your night guard. Don’t leave it in a hot car, direct sunlight, or near heaters.
In cold places, it may feel stiff but will soften back to normal at room temperature.
Stay dry in humid weather
Humidity can lead to bacteria or mold. Always dry your night guard before storing it.
Store it in a safe place
Skip damp spots like bathroom sinks or near showers. Instead, keep it in a cool, dry area—like a drawer or bedside table.
Pro Tip: Add a silica gel packet to your case to absorb moisture.
Travel Checklist: Essentials for Your Night Guard
Before you leave for your trip, make sure you have everything you need to keep your night guard safe, clean, and in good condition. Use this quick checklist to stay prepared:
✅ Ventilated case – Protects your night guard from damage and keeps it hygienic.
✅ Cleaning wipes or mild soap – For quick and easy cleaning on the go.
✅ Travel toothbrush – Helps remove buildup without needing special cleaning products.
✅ Backup night guard (if available) – A spare can save you stress if you lose or break your main one.
✅ Bottled water – Useful for rinsing in areas where tap water isn't safe.
✅ Dentist’s contact info – In case you need advice or a replacement while traveling.
Note: Packing these essentials ensures you can care for your night guard properly and avoid common travel issues.
FAQs: Traveling with a Night Guard
1. Can I bring my night guard in my carry-on bag?
Yes! Night guards are TSA-approved and can be packed in your carry-on without any issues. Keeping it in your carry-on also prevents loss or damage in checked luggage.
2. Can I wear my night guard on a long flight?
Yes, you can wear your night guard on a long flight, especially if you plan to sleep. Just make sure to store it in a clean case when you’re not using it and rinse it before putting it back in your mouth.
3. Can I store my night guard in a resealable bag if I lose my case?
Yes, a resealable plastic bag can be a temporary solution, but it’s best to store your night guard in a hard, ventilated case to protect it from damage and bacteria.
4. What’s the best way to dry my night guard while traveling?
After cleaning, pat it dry with a clean towel and let it air-dry before storing it in its case. Avoid leaving it in a damp or enclosed space for too long, as this can lead to bacteria buildup.
Conclusion
Traveling with your night guard is easy with a little prep. Just pack it in a sturdy case, keep it in your carry-on, and clean it regularly—even on the go.
Lost or damaged it? A backup or temporary fix can help until you replace it.
Need a reliable night guard before your trip? Pro Teeth Guard offers custom-fit, dentist-made night guards delivered right to your door—affordable and travel-ready.
Safe travels and sleep tight—no grinding allowed!
- Most Popular
- Hard Outside, Soft Inside
- 2MM Thick
- Moderate / Heavy
- Most Durable
- Hard Materials
- 1.5MM Thick
- Heavy / Severe
- For Day Time Use
- Thin, Barely Visible
- 1MM Thick
- Light / Moderate
- For Clenching
- Flexible & Soft
- 1.5MM Thick
- Light / Moderate
