The best night guard for teeth grinding is one that fits well, stays comfortable all night, and holds up to your grinding. Here’s how the main options compare.
By the FixUrSmile Dental Lab team · Updated September 2026
Grinding or clenching your teeth during sleep (sleep bruxism) can wear down enamel, chip teeth, and damage dental work. A night guard puts a protective layer between your upper and lower teeth. It doesn’t cure grinding, but it helps protect your teeth from the wear it causes. If you have jaw pain, headaches, or TMJ symptoms, see a dentist to find the cause.
| Boil-and-bite (store-bought) | Custom from an online lab | Custom from a dentist | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fit | Molded at home, generic shape | Made from your own impressions | Made from impressions or scans at the office |
| Typical cost* | About $20–$30 | About $50–$200 (FixUrSmile: $297) | About $300–$1,000 |
| Comfort | Often bulky | Slimmer, custom fit | Slimmer, custom fit |
| Durability | Lower | Higher | Higher |
*Typical ranges reported by GoodRx. Prices vary by provider and material.
The FixUrSmile Custom Night Guard is a hybrid design: soft inside for comfort, durable outside for protection.
Many providers recommend replacing a night guard every 3 to 5 years, or sooner if it cracks, gets holes, discolors, or no longer fits, according to GoodRx. Heavy grinders may need replacements more often. Keeping it clean helps it last. See how to clean a night guard.
Ready to order? Here’s how to order a custom night guard online, step by step from impression kit to doorstep.
FixUrSmile makes custom hybrid night guards in our US dental lab from impressions you take at home. They’re $297 per arch. Every order includes free return shipping on your impression kit and our Custom Fit Guarantee.
Related guides: how much a night guard costs
For many people, yes. Custom guards are slimmer, more comfortable, and more durable than boil-and-bite guards because they’re made from impressions of your teeth.
Soft guards suit light grinding, hard guards suit heavy grinding, and hybrid guards with a soft inside and hard outside offer a balance of both.
Both can work. Many people wear an upper guard, but the best choice depends on your bite and comfort. Ask your dentist if you’re unsure.
A night guard protects your teeth from grinding damage, but it doesn’t treat the cause. Talk to your dentist or doctor about causes such as stress or sleep issues.
Soft inside, durable outside, $297 per arch. 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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