Custom Nightguards vs. Over-the-Counter: Which is Better for You?

custom nightguard to help with clenching and grinding vs boil and bite nightguard

If you wake up with jaw pain, sore teeth, or morning headaches, nighttime grinding or clenching could be the culprit. A nightguard can help—but not all guards are made the same. The choice between a custom nightguard and an over-the-counter option isn’t just about price. It’s about comfort, fit, and how well it actually protects your teeth.

Nightguards act as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth while you sleep. They cushion your bite and help reduce the pressure that leads to worn enamel, fractures, and joint discomfort. But which type is right for you?

Over-the-Counter Nightguards: A Quick Fix

You’ve seen them at pharmacies and online—boil-and-bite nightguards you shape at home. They’re easy to find and usually less expensive. For some people, they’re enough to relieve minor grinding symptoms. Sometimes, they are a good way to dip your toe in.

But the fit is rarely perfect. A loose or bulky guard can be uncomfortable, fall out overnight, or cause you to clench harder. Plus, they tend to wear down quickly and aren’t built for long-term use.

Custom Nightguards: Designed for Your Bite

Custom nightguards are made by your dentist using a mold of your teeth. The result is a slim, durable appliance that fits your mouth precisely. That better fit usually means fewer adjustments, less irritation, and better sleep overall.

Because custom guards are made with stronger materials, they typically last longer than store-bought options. They’re also easier to talk and breathe with, which matters if you wear it often—or every night.

So, Which One Wins?

It depends on how often you grind and how much damage it’s causing. If your symptoms are occasional and mild, an over-the-counter guard might be a temporary solution. But if you’ve had cracked fillings, tooth sensitivity, or chronic jaw tension, a custom option is worth considering.

Think of it like shoes: something off the rack may fit for a while, but custom fits better and lasts longer.

Custom Nightguards at Curtis Family Dentistry in Mooresville and Troutman, NC

At Curtis Family Dentistry in Mooresville and Troutman, NC, our team helps patients find long-term relief from grinding and clenching with custom nightguards built for their needs. It starts with a simple impression and ends with better sleep and stronger teeth.

Interested in getting fitted for a custom nightguard? Call today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you protect your teeth while you sleep—comfortably and effectively.

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