Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Night Guard (Bruxism) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Night Guard (dentist) | $300 – $800 | $150 – $400 |
| Boil-and-Bite (OTC) | $15 – $40 | $15 – $40 |
| Custom Online (dental lab) | $100 – $200 | $100 – $200 |
CPT/ADA Code: D9944
What Affects the Cost
- Geographic location (urban areas cost 20-40% more)
- Dentist experience and specialization
- Type of dental insurance plan (PPO vs HMO/DHMO)
- Whether the procedure is classified as preventive, basic, or major
- Lab and material costs
- Number of teeth or surfaces involved
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: 50-80% — often classified as basic or major
Most dental PPO plans have an annual maximum of $1,000-$2,500. Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays) is typically covered at 100%. Basic procedures (fillings, simple extractions) at 70-80%. Major procedures (crowns, bridges, implants) at 50%. Many plans have a 6-12 month waiting period for major work.
How to Save Money
- Dental schools offer procedures at 50-70% discount
- Dental discount plans save 20-50% for $80-$200/year
- Ask about payment plans — many dentists offer CareCredit 0% financing
- Community health centers provide sliding-scale pricing
- Get quotes from 2-3 dentists in your area
- Consider dental tourism for expensive procedures
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Many plans cover custom night guards at 50-80% as a basic or major procedure. Some plans classify them as appliances with separate coverage limits.
Custom night guards from a dentist ($300-$800) fit precisely and last 3-5 years. Store-bought ($15-$40) fit poorly and last months. Online custom guards ($100-$200) are a middle ground.
Custom dental night guards last 3-5 years. Store-bought guards last 3-6 months. Replace when you notice wear or poor fit.