Night Guards in Newark NJ: Do You Need One for Teeth Grinding or TMJ?
Author: ID Wellness Dental Editorial Team | Published: 2026-06-19
Teeth grinding (bruxism) affects an estimated 8–10% of adults and can cause significant tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches over time. A custom night guard protects your teeth and joints while you sleep. This guide explains who needs a night guard, the difference between custom and store-bought options, and what to expect.
Quick Answer: A night guard (occlusal guard) is a custom-fitted oral appliance worn during sleep to protect teeth from grinding (bruxism) and reduce jaw joint stress from TMJ disorders. Custom night guards from a dentist cost $300–$700 and last 3–5 years. They are significantly more effective and comfortable than over-the-counter alternatives. Most dental insurance plans provide partial coverage. Bruxism (teeth grinding) affects 8–10% of adults and can cause significant tooth wear, fractures, and jaw pain if untreated Custom night guards from a dentist are far superior to store-bought options in fit, comfort, and effectiveness Night guards protect teeth from wear and fracture but do not cure bruxism — stress management and other therapies address the underlying cause Signs of bruxism include worn teeth, jaw soreness in the morning, headaches, and a partner reporting grinding sounds during sleep Custom night guards typically cost $300–$700 and last 3–5 years with proper care What Is Bruxism? Bruxism is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, most commonly during sleep (sleep bruxism) but also during waking hours (awake bruxism). It is estimated to affect 8–10% of adults, though many are unaware they grind their teeth until their dentist identifies the signs during an examination. The causes of bruxism are multifactorial and include stress and anxiety, sleep disorders (particularly sleep apnea), certain medications (especially SSRIs), caffeine and alcohol consumption, a
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a night guard if I grind my teeth?
Yes — if your dentist identifies signs of bruxism (tooth wear, fractures, jaw soreness), a custom night guard is strongly recommended to protect your teeth and jaw joints from further damage.
How much does a custom night guard cost in Newark, NJ?
Custom night guards in Newark, NJ cost $300–$700. Most dental insurance plans provide partial coverage. Custom guards last 3–5 years, making them more cost-effective than repeatedly replacing store-bought alternatives.
What is the difference between a custom and store-bought night guard?
Custom night guards are made from precise impressions of your teeth, providing an exact fit that distributes grinding forces evenly. Store-bought guards have a poor fit and can actually worsen clenching.
Will a night guard stop my teeth grinding?
A night guard protects your teeth from the effects of grinding but does not stop the grinding itself. Stress management, sleep therapy, and addressing underlying causes are needed to reduce bruxism.
Can a night guard help with jaw pain or TMJ symptoms?
A custom appliance may help protect teeth and reduce strain from clenching for some patients, but jaw pain has multiple possible causes. A dental evaluation is needed to determine whether a night guard is appropriate for your symptoms.