They look similar, but night guards and retainers do very different jobs. Here’s how to tell which one you need, and whether one can do both.
By the FixUrSmile Dental Lab team · Updated September 2026
A retainer holds your teeth in position after orthodontic treatment so they don’t shift. A night guard is a protective cushion that absorbs the force of teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) to protect your teeth from wear and chipping.
| Retainer | Night guard | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Keeps teeth from moving | Protects teeth from grinding |
| Who needs it | People who finished braces or aligners | People who grind or clench |
| Material | Thin, clear plastic (or acrylic and wire) | Thicker, more durable material |
| Fit | Snug, to hold teeth in place | Covers biting surfaces to cushion them |
| FixUrSmile price | $145 per arch | $297 per arch |
Generally, no. Retainers are thin, and heavy grinding can wear holes in them or crack them quickly. They also aren’t designed to absorb grinding forces. If you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about a night guard.
Not reliably. A night guard isn’t designed to hold teeth in a specific position, so your teeth could still shift if you stop wearing your retainer. If you need both, ask your orthodontist or dentist how to combine them safely.
Some people do: for example, someone who finished orthodontic treatment and also grinds their teeth. Your dentist or orthodontist can recommend what’s right for you. If you order both from FixUrSmile, your second product is 15% off automatically.
Custom night guards from a dentist typically cost about $300 to $1,000, according to GoodRx. Clear retainers typically cost about $50 to $200 per set, according to Dentaly.
FixUrSmile: custom night guard $297 per arch; clear retainer $145 per arch or $265 for both.
No. A retainer keeps teeth from shifting, while a night guard protects teeth from grinding and clenching.
It’s not recommended if you grind your teeth. Grinding can quickly wear through or crack a thin retainer.
A well-fitting custom night guard isn’t designed to move teeth. If your bite feels different, stop wearing it and check with your dentist.
Night guards usually cost more because they’re thicker and more durable. FixUrSmile night guards are $297 per arch and clear retainers are $145 per arch.
Custom night guards from $297, clear retainers from $145. Made in our US dental lab from impressions you take at home, with licensed dentist approval and our Custom Fit Guarantee.
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