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If you’ve been grinding your teeth at night, chances are you’ve been told to get a night guard. But with so many options out there—from boil-and-bite models at the pharmacy to professional-grade custom guards—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
So what’s the real difference between over-the-counter (OTC) and custom night guards? And more importantly, which one is right for you?
Let’s break it down with a side-by-side comparison to help you make the best choice for your health, comfort, and wallet.
OTC Guards:
These are typically "boil-and-bite" models you mold at home by softening the plastic in hot water and biting into it. While this offers a quick fix, the fit can be bulky or uneven—especially if your bite isn’t perfectly symmetrical (hint: most aren’t!).
Custom Guards:
Made using precise impressions of your teeth, custom guards fit like a glove. They're slim, comfortable, and often feel like you're not wearing anything at all.
👉 For example, NewSmile sends you an impression kit to use at home, then crafts your night guard in a professional dental lab—no visit to the dentist required.
Verdict: If you plan to wear your night guard every night (and you should), comfort is key. Custom wins here, hands down.
OTC Guards:
Most store-bought guards are made from softer, less durable materials. They tend to wear down faster—sometimes within a few months—and can become deformed if not stored properly.
Custom Guards:
These use higher-grade dental materials designed to withstand nightly grinding. They're longer-lasting, more resistant to damage, and offer better protection for your enamel and jaw alignment.
Verdict: Custom guards are an investment, but they hold up significantly longer—often making them more cost-effective in the long run.
Ever wonder what makes a custom night guard so…custom?
You take impressions of your teeth (usually with an at-home kit like NewSmile’s)
The impressions are sent to a dental lab
Technicians create a precise mold of your bite and craft a night guard that fits your unique smile
It’s the same process used by dentists, minus the clinic markup. NewSmile’s direct-to-you model makes it both affordable and convenient, without compromising on quality.
To be fair, there are situations where an OTC night guard can do the job, such as:
You’re experiencing occasional grinding and want to test before committing
You need a temporary solution while waiting for a custom guard
Your budget is tight and you need immediate, short-term protection
But for those dealing with consistent grinding, jaw pain, or dental sensitivity, a better fit and stronger material is well worth the step up.
If you’re grinding your teeth regularly, don’t let a poor-fitting night guard become part of the problem. Comfort, durability, and protection matter—especially when it comes to your long-term oral health.
Bottom line: OTC guards are better than nothing. But if you're looking for real results, a custom clear night guard like the one from NewSmile gives you the comfort and care your smile deserves.
🛒 Ready to try one for yourself?
Explore NewSmile’s custom night guard made in dental-grade labs and delivered to your door. No dentist visit. No guesswork. Just better sleep and a healthier smile.
