Teeth grinding

[Jram]

I have been grinding my teeth at night when I sleep and it is causing jaw and tooth pain.  I recently went to the dentist where we discussed a custom made mouth piece that I would wear at night.  The only problem is that it cost about $800.00!!!  There is anohter mouth piece that they can make that is a "lesser model" that is about $300.00.  

I have also tried the store bought mouth pieces designed to keep one from grinding, but they have proved to be too bulky to the point where I end up taking them out while I sleep.

My question is why are the dentist made mouth pieces so expensive?  What less expensive, but effecient, mouthpieces are out there?

[LyndaM]

I used to work in a dental lab, and the charge to make a nightguard was 80 to the dentist.  The dentist can upcharge to anything he likes......good money maker....He makes the impression, and sends to lab....Dentist might have to make adjustments when its placed and periodically over time.   Very expensive item that costs nothing to make.....

[mike1105]

they are expensive due to office overhead.... staff, lab fees, materials, follow up adjustments etc etc etc etc etc. you get what you pay for.

[Jerome Bogin, D.D.S.]

I do not know the reason for the fees--that is something that you will have to discuss with your dentist.I would be interested in knowing what the difference between the $800 and $300 mouthguard. Itis possible that the more expensive one is made by the lab and the less expensive one is made by the dentist .Get a feeling how long each will last and then make a decision.