Night guard (for teeth grinding)
A typical case, in 6 steps over 3 visits. Typically up to 2 weeks for the lab to make it, then some time to get used to wearing it. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Night guard (for teeth grinding) · Visit 1
Checking for grinding
The dentist checks the teeth and jaw for signs of grinding or clenching.
Source: mouthhealthy.org
Steps in a typical case
Checking for grinding
The dentist checks the teeth and jaw for signs of grinding or clenching.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Impressions
Impressions of the teeth are taken with dental putty or a digital scanning wand.
Visit 1 · Source 2
Made in a lab
A dental lab makes a guard that fits the teeth exactly; this can take up to two weeks.
Visit 1 · Source 2
Fitting
The guard is tried in and adjusted so it fits comfortably.
Visit 2 · Source 2
Wearing it at night
The guard is worn over the teeth during sleep, when most grinding and clenching happens.
Visit 2 · Source 2
Checkups
The guard is brought to dental checkups so it can be checked for cracks or wear.
Visit 3 · Source 2
Typical trade-offs
| Visits | Typically 2 visits: impressions, then the fitting. Source 2 |
|---|---|
| Time to final result | Typically up to 2 weeks for the lab to make it, then some time to get used to wearing it. Source 2 |
| How long it lasts | Typically lasts several years with proper care. Source 2 |
| Upkeep | Typical upkeep: rinsing it and cleaning it with a brush and soapy water after each use, letting it air dry and keeping it in a vented case. Source 2 |
Figures for a typical case from the sources below. A dentist can say how a given case differs.
Questions to ask your dentist
- The typical case takes 3 visits. How many would I need, and what happens at each one?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long does it usually last in a case like mine, and what upkeep will it need?
- Will it hurt, and what can I eat or do while it heals?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses D9944, D9945, D9946).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- Teeth grinding. ADA MouthHealthy. www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/teeth-grinding. Accessed November 14, 2026.
- Mouth guard. Cleveland Clinic. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10910-mouthguards. Accessed November 14, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.0. Billing codes for the typical case: D9944, D9945, D9946.