Waking up with jaw discomfort, headaches, or sensitivity in teeth can feel like separate problems. However, if this is happening consistently, you may be dealing with bruxism, which is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth (usually during sleep). The long-term effects of bruxism can damage your enamel, fillings, and even shift your bite over time. 

One of the most common treatments for bruxism is the use of night guards. However, not all night guards are the same. There are two types of guards: custom dental night guards and over-the-counter night guards. 

In this comprehensive dental guard review, we will look at the differences, pros, and cons of custom-fit night guards vs. over-the-counter night guards, and demonstrate why Caspersmile is quickly becoming the go-to option for patients looking for the best night guard for bruxism, without breaking the bank.

Table of Content

Bruxism: Why it deserves more attention

A woman grinding her teeth in sleep

Bruxism is often underestimated. Many people are unaware that they even grind their teeth until a dentist points it out, or worse, when serious dental issues arise. Stress, misaligned teeth, sleep apnea, or lifestyle habits can cause this condition. Its effects aren't limited to tooth damage either; it can cause facial soreness, sleep disruptions, and even chronic migraines.

If left untreated, the long-term effects of bruxism can include:

  • Flattened or fractured teeth

  • Receding gums

  • Tooth mobility

  • TMJ disorders

  • Interrupted sleep and fatigue

The good news? A high-quality night guard is an effective, non-invasive solution that protects your teeth and gives your jaw the rest it needs.

Take control before the damage begins!

Protect your teeth with a custom-fit night guard from Caspersmile. comfortable, durable, and crafted to give your jaw the relief it deserves.

Shop our clear aligners now!

What are over-the-counter night guards?

Over-the-counter night guards are commercially manufactured guards sold through pharmacies, grocery stores, or online retailers. There are stock (pre-formed) guards and boil-and-bite (partially custom) guards. Boil-and-bite guards can be boiled and molded to fit your bite slightly to allow for a little more accommodation than stock guards.

Advantages:

  • Budget-friendly: Usually costs between £20-£35

  • Easily accessible: No dentist visits required

  • Quick setup: You can start using it the same day

Disadvantages:

  • Limited customization: Since they are not molded precisely to your teeth, the fit may be loose or bulky

  • Less comfort: Many users complain of discomfort that disrupts their sleep

  • Short lifespan: Materials tend to wear out quickly

  • Ineffective for severe bruxism: Offer minimal protection for people who grind heavily

While they serve as a decent starting point for people unsure about using a dental guard, over-the-counter options often fail to provide long-term relief or satisfaction.

What are custom dental night guards?

A custom dental night guard is made for your teeth using a dental impression. When ordering a teeth-clenching guard through a dentist, it would usually require a trip to the dental office. But with tele-dentistry solutions, like Caspersmile, you are now able to order one online through an at-home impression kit.

Advantages:

  • Precision fit: Offers a snug, exact fit that doesn't move around during sleep

  • Superior comfort: Tailored design and different types, like hard, hybrid, and soft night guards, mean better sleep quality

  • Maximum protection: Ideal for moderate to severe teeth grinding

  • Longevity: High-quality materials last longer and resist cracking or wearing down

Disadvantages:

  • Higher cost (when purchased through dentists): Traditional dental guards can cost between £150-£300

  • Takes time to manufacture: Takes several days for impression-making and delivery

However, brands like Caspersmile eliminate the need for expensive dental appointments while still offering professionally crafted, custom-fit night guards at a significantly reduced price.

Caspersmile: Affordable night guards that actually work

A woman holding a Caspersmile night guard and pointing towards it.

If you're looking for the best night guard for bruxism that's comfortable, reliable, and won't cost you a small fortune, Caspersmile is your solution.

We've simplified the process to bring dental-grade, custom dental night guards right to your doorstep. Here's how we make it easier and better:

Easy impression process

We ship you an at-home impression kit with clear instructions. It only takes a few minutes to complete and send back to us.

Professionally-crafted guards

Using your dental mold, our specialists design a precise, comfortable, and highly durable guard that protects your teeth night after night.

Affordable for everyone

Why pay hundreds at the dentist? Our guards offer the same clinical quality at a much lower price, making it the most affordable night guard for teeth grinding, without compromising on quality.

Built to last

Our guards are made from BPA-free, medical-grade materials that are both flexible and tough. They are designed to withstand even the most aggressive grinders.

Excellent customer support

Have questions? Need help with your impression? Our friendly support team is here for you throughout the process.

Experience the Caspersmile difference today!

Say goodbye to uncomfortable, overpriced guards and protect your teeth the smart way.

Shop our clear aligners now!

Dental guard comparison: Quick overview

Here is a quick dental guard comparison to make you understand the difference better:

Feature

Caspersmile custom night guard

Over-the-counter guard

Fit

Tailored to your teeth

Generic, one-size

Comfort

High comfort and stability

Moderate to low

Durability

Lasts up to several years

Wears down quickly

Protection Level

Advanced bruxism protection

Basic

Cost

£112.50

£20-$35

Ease of Use

Simple home kit, shipped to you

Instant

When should you choose an over-the-counter night guard?

Choose an over-the-counter night guard if:

  • You're dealing with mild bruxism

  • You need a temporary or short-term solution

  • You're exploring if a night guard is right for you

  • Your budget is extremely limited, and you're okay with compromise

When should you choose a custom night guard?

Go for a custom dental night guard (especially from Caspersmile) if:

  • You grind or clench your teeth frequently and intensely

  • You want long-term comfort and protection

  • You've tried over-the-counter options and found them ineffective or uncomfortable

  • You want the best value for your money in the long run

  • You care about sleep quality and jaw health

Protecting your teeth is an investment, not an expense

If you're living with a habit of teeth grinding or clenching, don't put off treatment until the damage cannot be undone. Night guards are one of the best non-invasive bruxism treatment options available today. While going to a pharmacy for a night guard to save money sounds less painful, and might even be just a little convenient, the quality of fit, comfort, and protection when compared to the potential damage is worth taking into consideration.

A night guard with a custom fit, especially with Caspersmile, is more than a protective device to wear; it's an investment and a long-term approach to considering your oral health and sleep quality, and overall well-being.

Take the next step with Caspersmile

Why choose a standard fit if you can get a custom dental night guard that is affordable, durable, and shipped directly to your home?

Order your Caspersmile night guard today and see for yourself the difference in dental grade, without dental office prices.

Frequently asked questions

faqs
Yes, custom night guards are made to fit your bite snuggly, which makes it more convenient and comfortable than store-bought ones.
They can be a temporary solution for mild grinding, but they lack the fit, comfort, and durability of custom night guards.
Yes. Dentist-provided guards are made from in-office impressions, while quality online brands like Caspersmile offer the same custom-fit guards using easy at-home kits, often at a lower price.
They offer basic protection but often don't fit well and may not effectively prevent damage from moderate to severe grinding.

Citations:

Colgate. (n.d.-i). Over-the-Counter vs. Custom Night Guard: Which Is Right for You?
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/bruxism/over-the-counter-vs-custom-night-guard-which-is-right-for-you

Colgate. (n.d.-g). How Night Guards Help with Teeth Grinding.
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/bruxism/do-i-need-a-night-guard