We floss. We brush. We even rinse with mouthwash. But there’s one critical dental habit that most people overlook—despite it protecting your teeth from silent, nightly destruction: wearing a custom night guard.
If you think night guards are only for extreme cases or older adults, think again. More young adults are being diagnosed with bruxism than ever before—thanks in part to stress, increased screen time, and poor sleep quality.
The result? Cracked teeth, worn enamel, and expensive visits to the dentist. But it’s avoidable—with the right tools and a little awareness.
Let’s break down how a night guard works, why custom is the only real option, and how today’s technology makes getting one easier and more affordable than ever.
First, What’s a Night Guard and Who Needs It?
A night guard is a thin, removable appliance you wear while sleeping. It sits between your upper and lower teeth, acting as a cushion to absorb the force of grinding or clenching.
The medical term for this grinding is bruxism, and it affects around 10% of American adults. The numbers are likely higher post-pandemic, with dentists reporting a significant rise in stress-related grinding symptoms.
You might need a night guard if:
- You wake up with a sore jaw, neck, or head
- Your teeth feel sensitive in the morning
- You’ve had fillings or crowns crack unexpectedly
- You’ve noticed a change in your bite or gum recession
- You hear or feel yourself clenching during the night
Grinding can destroy your enamel and even affect your bite long-term. But a guard helps distribute pressure evenly, giving your teeth and jaw time to rest and heal.
Why a Custom Night Guard Beats the Generic Versions
Not all night guards are created equal. Over-the-counter versions from your local pharmacy might seem convenient, but they come with a long list of downsides:
- Uncomfortable bulkiness: They often feel too big, causing users to abandon them.
- Poor fit: A loose-fitting guard may shift or fall out during the night.
- Limited protection: Because they don’t match your bite, they don’t distribute pressure correctly.
A custom night guard, on the other hand, is designed specifically for your teeth. It provides:
- A precise, molded fit
- Maximum comfort
- Better jaw alignment
- Optimal long-term protection
Custom night guards also last longer and are less likely to cause side effects like gum irritation or jaw misalignment.
Cost Is No Longer a Barrier—Thanks to At-Home Innovation
Here’s the main reason people don’t get custom night guards: price.
Traditionally, getting one meant going to the dentist, having molds taken, and paying $400–$800 or more out of pocket—often not covered by insurance.
But companies like Remi have changed everything.
With Remi’s direct-to-consumer model, you:
- Get an at-home impression kit delivered to your door
- Create your mold in minutes (it’s easy, no mess)
- Mail it back in the prepaid package
- Receive your custom night guard made from the same type of dental lab your dentist would use
The best part? It’s a fraction of the cost—up to 80% less than what you’d pay in a clinic.
Remi also offers a subscription plan (Remi Club) where you can receive a new guard every 6 months. This is ideal if you grind heavily and want fresh protection without the hassle of reordering.
Wearing a Night Guard Can Help You Sleep Better
It’s not just about your teeth.
People who grind at night often wake up frequently—either from the physical tension or the noise. That leads to fragmented sleep, which affects your memory, mood, and immune system.
By relaxing the jaw and minimizing movement, a night guard helps many people sleep more deeply. You may even reduce snoring if clenching was part of the problem.
Better sleep = better focus, better energy, and a better you.
A Long-Term Investment in Your Smile
We don’t usually think about how valuable our natural teeth are—until they’re gone.
Dental work is not only expensive, it’s permanent. Once your enamel is gone, you can’t grow it back. Once a tooth cracks, you’re looking at fillings, crowns, or worse—implants.
Wearing a night guard now can save you thousands in procedures later. It’s one of the simplest forms of prevention available.
And the best part? It requires no major change in your routine. Just pop it in at bedtime and take it out in the morning. That’s it.
How to Care for Your Custom Guard
Your guard will last longer if you take care of it properly. Here are a few simple tips:
- Rinse it with cool water after each use
- Brush it gently with a toothbrush (no toothpaste—too abrasive)
- Let it air dry completely
- Store it in a ventilated case
- Avoid hot water or heat exposure
- Replace every 6–12 months depending on wear
Remi’s subscription makes the replacement process seamless—no reminders needed, and you always have a clean, fresh guard ready to go.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep
You wear shoes to protect your feet. Sunscreen to protect your skin. Why wouldn’t you wear something to protect your teeth—especially when they’re under attack while you sleep?
A custom night guard is one of the smartest dental habits you can adopt. It’s effortless, effective, and now—thanks to companies like Remi—finally affordable.
You don’t need to wait for your teeth to start cracking or your gums to recede. Prevention starts today. And it’s easier than ever.
Also Read-How Ethical Breeding Influences Cavapoo Health and Behavior
