Custom night guards are dental devices designed to fit the unique contours of an individual's mouth. They are used to protect teeth from the effects of grinding or clenching during sleep, a condition known as bruxism.

Custom night guards work by creating a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth. This prevents the wear and tear that can occur from teeth grinding or clenching, thereby protecting the enamel and reducing the risk of tooth damage and other oral health issues.

Custom night guards are typically made from BPA-free, dental-grade materials. They often consist of a hard-soft plastic combination, ensuring durability on the outside and comfort on the inside.

The choice of a custom night guard depends on the severity of your teeth grinding and your comfort preferences. Options range from slimmer profile night guards for light grinding to thicker night guards for severe grinding. 

To get a custom night guard, you can order an impression kit online from a provider. After taking your dental impressions at home, you send them back to the company, which then manufactures the night guard to fit your mouth precisely.

While night guards are designed to alleviate the symptoms of teeth grinding and clenching, night guards can and do help some people with their TMJ symptoms.

Maintaining good hygiene for your custom night guard is crucial to prevent bacteria buildup, odors, and potential oral health issues. There are two recommended methods for cleaning your night guard effectively:

1. Ultrasonic Cleaning - Using an ultrasonic cleaner, like the one offered by Remi, is the most thorough and efficient way to clean your night guard.
2. Manual Cleaning - If you don't have an ultrasonic cleaner, you can manually clean your night guard by rinsing it with warm water after each use.

Regardless of the cleaning method, always allow your custom night guard to air dry completely before storing it in a clean, well-ventilated case. Proper care and regular cleaning will help extend the lifespan of your night guard and maintain optimal oral hygiene.

The lifespan of a custom night guard varies depending on the material and the severity of teeth grinding. On average, a night guard can last up to 3-12 months, but it may need replacement more or less frequently depending on wear.

The cost of a custom night guard can vary widely, typically ranging from $100 to $700, depending on the provider and the type of guard. Online providers often offer them at a lower cost than dental offices as they cut out the middleman.

No, it is not necessary to wear a night guard on both the top and bottom teeth. Most people find comfort and protection with a night guard on just one arch. However, you can choose which one feels best for you, and some providers offer both to allow for personal preference and the option to use the night guard set to whiten their teeth while protecting from grinding.

Custom night guards are primarily designed to protect against teeth grinding and clenching. While some types of oral appliances can help with snoring or sleep apnea by adjusting the position of the jaw or tongue, custom night guards are not specifically designed for this purpose.