How Much Does a Night Guard Cost?

March 9, 2020 · Ashely Notarmaso

This article has been reviewed and updated for accuracy on December 22, 2023.

How much is a night guard?

Store bought “ready to wear” dental night guards cost as little as $20.00. In dental offices, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 and up.

Online, you can purchase a custom made night guard by taking your own dental impression for an average cost of $100-$200.

What gives?

Why does a dental night guard vary so much in cost?

The cost of a night guard can vary based on several factors. Here are some reasons why night guards can have different price ranges:

1. Material Quality: Night guards are typically made from different materials, such as soft or hard acrylic, dual-laminate materials, or even specialized materials for specific purposes like TMJ or sleep apnea. The quality and durability of these materials can vary, and higher-quality materials often come at a higher cost. Night guards made from premium materials tend to be more comfortable, longer-lasting, and better at protecting your teeth.
2. Customization: Night guards can be either custom-made or over-the-counter (OTC) options. Custom-made night guards are created based on impressions of your teeth, ensuring a precise fit. They are typically made in a dental laboratory, which adds to the cost. OTC night guards, on the other hand, are pre-formed and generally less expensive but may not provide the same level of comfort and protection.
3. Dental Professional Involvement: Night guards can be obtained through dental professionals or purchased directly from retailers. When you obtain a night guard through a dental professional, the cost may include additional services, such as the dental examination, consultation, and the expertise of the dentist. This personalized approach can increase the cost compared to purchasing a generic night guard online or from a store.
4. Custom Features: Some night guards may require additional customization to address specific dental conditions or concerns. For example, if you require a night guard to treat temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or sleep apnea, it may require additional features and adjustments, which can contribute to a higher cost.
5. Brand and Manufacturer: Night guards from well-known dental brands or reputable manufacturers may come at a higher price point due to factors such as brand recognition, reputation, and quality control processes. These factors can give you more confidence in the product’s reliability and performance.

Is a night guard covered by insurance?

Whether a dental night guard is covered by insurance depends on several factors, including the type of insurance plan you have and the specific circumstances surrounding your dental needs.

Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for certain dental procedures and treatments, including night guards. However, the extent of coverage can vary widely. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others may provide full coverage. It’s important to review the details of your insurance policy or contact your insurance provider directly to understand the specifics of your coverage.

Furthermore, dental insurance often has certain limitations and conditions. For example, some plans may require pre-authorization or a referral from your dentist, while others may have waiting periods before covering certain treatments. It’s advisable to consult your insurance provider to verify the coverage details, such as any deductibles, co-pays, or annual maximums that may apply.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that dental insurance coverage may differ for different types of night guards. Some plans may provide coverage for basic night guards, which are typically used for teeth grinding or bruxism. However, specialized night guards, such as those for treating temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or sleep apnea, may have different coverage considerations.

To ensure accurate information, it is recommended to reach out to your dental insurance provider directly. They can provide you with the most up-to-date and personalized information regarding the coverage of a dental night guard based on your specific insurance plan and circumstances.

How does a night guard work?

A night guard is a removable appliance that works by creating a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. It helps prevent the harmful effects of teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism.

The night guard absorbs the forces generated during grinding, reducing the impact on your teeth, jaw joints, and muscles. By wearing a night guard while you sleep, you can protect your teeth from damage, alleviate jaw pain, headaches, and promote better overall oral health.

Is a night guard worth it?

If you grind your teeth, wearing a night guard can be highly beneficial in many cases. Here are some reasons why wearing a night guard is worth considering if you grind your teeth:

1. Protection for Your Teeth: Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can cause significant damage to your teeth over time. It can lead to worn-down tooth enamel, chipped or cracked teeth, tooth sensitivity, and even tooth loss. By wearing a night guard, you create a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the grinding forces and preventing direct contact between your teeth. This can help safeguard your teeth from the detrimental effects of bruxism.
2. Pain and Discomfort Relief: Teeth grinding can cause various symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, facial muscle soreness, and earaches. Wearing a night guard can help alleviate these symptoms by reducing the pressure and strain on your jaw joints and muscles. The cushioning effect of the night guard can promote muscle relaxation, leading to a reduction in pain and discomfort.
3. Sleep Quality Improvement: Bruxism often occurs during sleep and can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to restless nights and fatigue during the day. Wearing a night guard can help minimize the impact of teeth grinding, allowing for better sleep quality. By reducing the grinding noises and providing a more comfortable oral environment, a night guard can contribute to a more restful sleep.
4. Dental Treatment Cost Savings: If left untreated, bruxism can result in significant dental problems that may require expensive treatments, such as dental restorations (crowns, veneers), root canals, or even tooth extractions. By wearing a night guard, you can mitigate the risk of these issues, potentially saving you money in the long run by avoiding more extensive dental procedures.
5. Preservation of Dental Work: If you have already undergone dental treatments, such as fillings, crowns, or veneers, grinding your teeth can damage or compromise the longevity of these restorations. Wearing a night guard can help protect and preserve your existing dental work, extending its lifespan and reducing the need for premature replacements.

What happens if I don’t wear a night guard at all?

Teeth grinding or bruxism is not only painful, but can also be harmful to ones’ dental health. It can result in the fracturing of teeth and eventually tooth loss. In some chronic cases, it could even lead to jaw disorders, such as temporomandibular joint disorder and change the appearance of the face. The worst part is that it usually happens when the person is asleep and unaware.

Why does a custom made night guard cost so much?

A custom night guard can cost more due to factors like high-quality materials, customization, dental professional involvement, and specialized manufacturing processes.

The good news is, custom made night guards were created to counter the effects of bruxism. They do work. Wearing a dental night guard offers excellent protection for the teeth and can alleviate teeth pain, jaw pain, headaches and will save you thousands of dollars in dental repair bills! It’s a preventative measure and well worth the cost!

But why the wide difference in night guard cost? And which is better? The ones made by dentists or the direct night guard labs online? To help you in your decision making, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each one:

Dentist Made Night Guard Price Range -$400 to $1000

Pros of going through your dentist:

1. The primary advantage of choosing to go to your local dentist for your night guard is convenience.

He or she will do all the work for you. During the initial visit, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth and fill out the necessary paper work as your teeth impression is sent to a professional dental laboratory for fabrication.

A return visit is required to fit the fabricated night guard once it has been shipped to your dentist.

2. Fitting adjustments.

If your night guard needs some minor adjustments, it’s more convenient to visit your dentist and have them make them to any areas of concern.

3. Ability to make a more customized type.

Custom dental night guards can become more involved if a person is being treated for TMJ or alignment issues.

If a dentist recommends you wear a night guard with special metal clasps, or ramps, etc., because of TMJ, alignment or other issues; you will not want to go through an online night guard lab. You will need to rely on and trust the expertise of your dentist.

Downside of Dentist-Made Night Guards

1. Price.

The downside is that it could cost you anywhere from $300 up to $1200+.

Many times the dental night guard cost is not covered by your insurance.

2. No guarantee.

Many dentists do not offer any sort of money back guarantee. Check with your dentist to see if he/she will refund you if you’re not satisfied.

Most online night guard labs offer full refunds if you’re dissatisfied for any reason.

Custom Night Guards Purchased Online – $100 to $250

The Pros:

1. Exactly the same night guard as the one you buy from a dentist unless your dentist is fashioning a more complicated type to treat sleep apnea, TMJ, misalignment, etc.

Today, consumers have an option of buying custom made night guards online.

Dental guards purchased online have the same quality as the ones you get from a dentist. This is not only because it is custom made, but because the same dental labs where your dentist gets your night guards are the same guys and gals that fabricate the night guards you get directly online.

It’s the exact same thing!

2. Price.

The best part is that you could save around $300 to $800 by skipping your dentist’s high fees. Dental night guards online will cost you from $100-$200. Getting the same quality for a lower price is indeed a great benefit. Plus, Sentinel Mouthguards® offers free all-inclusive shipping on any product.

3. Money back guarantee

Finding the right night guard can sometimes feel a lot like the Goldilocks’ dilemma. Too thick. Too thin. Too soft. Too hard. Personal preference varies and what works great for one may not work for another. Again, a reputable night guard lab will work with you to find your perfect night guard match, even after you’ve received your product. This is what 100% satisfaction means!

The downside of purchasing online

1. You are responsible for the outcome of your own dental impression. However, a reputable lab will supply extra impression material in case you mess up your first try.

Making your own teeth impression from the home kit provided is easy, but requires your focus. You must read the instructions and watch the tutorial video before attempting your dental impression.

2. Any adjustments to your night guard device that may be needed are easier to perform in a dental office when the patient is present and can work with the dentist to reach satisfaction of fit.

However, you can still get adjustments made through an online night guard lab. You should be aware the this will take more time because of the mailing correspondence involved. Also, most reputable online dental night guard makers will offer a money back guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction.

If you find yourself in the market for a dental night guard and you’re unsure of which route to take, there is comfort (not to mention savings) in knowing your options.

How much does a night guard cost from the dentist?

Dental office night guard cost

The cost of a night guard from a dentist can vary depending on several factors, including the dentist’s location, their level of experience, the type of night guard recommended, and any additional services included in the price. The cost may also be influenced by the complexity of your case, such as if you require a specialized night guard for TMJ or sleep apnea.

On average, the cost of a custom-made night guard from a dentist can range from $300 to $800 or more. This price typically includes the dental examination, impressions or digital scans of your teeth, the fabrication of the night guard in a dental laboratory, and any necessary adjustments or follow-up visits.

It’s worth noting that dental insurance may provide coverage for a portion of the cost of a night guard, depending on your plan and the specific circumstances. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of your coverage.

If cost is a concern, you can explore other options, such as over-the-counter (OTC) night guards or boil-and-bite options available at drugstores or online retailers. These options are generally less expensive, but they will not provide the same level of customization and comfort as a custom-made night guard from a dentist.

What kind of dental night guards should I buy?

First, what to avoid: The Sports Mouth Guard

Sports mouth guards are very common. This is because it is a mandatory requirement to wear one while playing most sports. Sports mouth guards are made of stiff plastic, making them uncomfortable to wear for long hours. Some can be boiled then molded to your teeth, but they tend to be bulky. They are a great option for protecting teeth from impact during sport activities.

Do not wear a sports mouth guard as a dental night guard substitute

They are not as effective as dental night guards because their structure and material causes sleeping and breathing difficulties. In fact, they can worsen bruxism and may cause jaw problems because of their bulky nature and bad fit.

What to avoid: Over the Counter Dental Night Guard

You do have the option of purchasing a night guard from some convenience stores such as CVS or Walmart. These are made of cheap plastic and most come with some sort of fitting instructions such as boiling the plastic appliance in hot water and then molding to your teeth.

These types are affordable as their price falls in the range of $15 -$30 and are often labeled as “custom” dental night guards. However, there are looming problems with mass produced “one size fits all” night guards.

Some are made of thick plastic and one may find them rather uncomfortable to wear. Many people complain that the excess material towards the back and up the sides makes it difficult to wear. Others are thin but do not stay in place. Also the plastic material is cheaper. This is not dental grade material designed for enduring the act of teeth grinding and clenching. The cheaper material tends to wear down much quicker.

Professional Night Guard from Sentinel Mouthguards

Sentinel Mouthguards® is a reputable company that specializes in creating custom-made mouthguards for various dental needs. We are committed to providing high-quality, personalized mouthguards that offer optimal protection, comfort, and durability.

How does it work?

Step 1: Order and Receive Impression Kit Getting a custom night guard from Sentinel Mouthguards is a breeze. Start by placing your order on our user-friendly website. We’ll promptly ship you an impression kit right to your doorstep. The kit includes everything you need to create a precise mold of your teeth in the comfort of your own home.

Step 2: Create Your Impressions Once you receive the impression kit, follow our simple, step-by-step instructions to take the impressions of your upper and lower teeth. We provide detailed guidance and even a backup set of materials, so you can feel confident in achieving accurate impressions. Don’t worry—our dedicated team of dental professionals is here to assist you throughout the process.

Step 3: Receive Your Custom Night Guard Once you’ve completed your impressions, simply return them to us using the prepaid shipping label included in the kit. Our experienced dental technicians will craft your custom night guard with precision and care in our state-of-the-art dental lab. We use high-quality materials to ensure the durability and effectiveness of your night guard.

In just a short time, your personalized night guard will be delivered right to your doorstep. It will fit your teeth perfectly, providing optimal protection and comfort while you sleep.

At Sentinel Mouthguards, we pride ourselves on our hassle-free process. We strive to make getting a custom night guard as convenient and straightforward as possible, all while delivering exceptional quality and customer service. Take the first step towards a peaceful night’s sleep and a healthier smile by ordering your custom night guard today!

How much do Sentinel Mouthguards® night guards cost?

At Sentinel Mouthguards, we offer a range of custom mouthguards to meet your specific needs. Our pricing depends on the type of mouthguard you choose and any additional features or customization options.

Our standard custom night guard starts at $129, providing excellent protection against teeth grinding and clenching. For those who require a higher level of durability and comfort, our hard and dual-laminated night guards are available at $149. These feature a more durable material for added strength and resilience.

If you’re looking for a night guard specifically designed to address heavy teeth grinding and jaw clenching, our Durability Night Guard is priced at $179.

We understand that everyone’s needs and budgets are different. That’s why we offer various pricing options to cater to a range of requirements. Our goal is to provide you with a high-quality, custom-fit mouthguard at an affordable price.

To get an accurate quote and explore our different options, we encourage you to visit our website or contact our friendly customer service team. We’re here to guide you through the selection process and help you find the perfect mouthguard that fits both your needs and your budget.

Check out our frequently asked questions page for more information on how it works, the Sentinel guarantee (something a dentist rarely offers) and more!

In conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a dental night guard can vary depending on several factors. Factors such as the type of night guard, customization requirements, materials used, and the location of the dental provider can all impact the overall cost.

While the initial cost may seem significant, it’s essential to consider the long-term benefits and potential savings of investing in a custom night guard over an OTC guard. Investing in a high-quality night guard can help protect your teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism, preventing more extensive and expensive dental treatments down the line.

Ultimately, the decision on how much to invest in a dental night guard should be based on your individual needs, budget, and the advice of your dental professional. Prioritizing your oral health and seeking professional guidance can help you make an informed decision that ensures both protection and cost-effectiveness in the long run.