By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you've started looking for a custom night guard in Canada, you've probably already hit the first real decision point: soft or hard? The choice isn't as obvious as it sounds. Different materials work for different grinding patterns, and picking the wrong one can mean replacing your guard every few months instead of every few years.
This guide breaks down exactly what separates soft, hard, and hybrid night guards — and which Canadian patients should be wearing which type.
Soft night guards are made from a flexible, rubber-like thermoplastic material (typically ethylene-vinyl acetate, or EVA). They're the most widely available type and the most comfortable for first-time wearers. The material gives slightly under pressure, which makes initial adjustment easier.
Best for: Mild clenching, light-to-moderate bruxism, patients with dental sensitivity who find hard appliances uncomfortable.
Lifespan: 6–12 months with regular use. Heavy grinders often wear through them faster.
The hidden problem with soft guards: Research has documented a counterintuitive finding — for some bruxism patients, the pliable texture gives the jaw muscles something satisfying to bite into, which can actually intensify grinding rather than reduce it. If you wake up with your jaw still aching after weeks of wearing a soft guard, this may be why.
Hard night guards are fabricated from rigid acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate, PMMA) or copolyester. They don't flex under bite pressure. Instead, they create a flat, even occlusal surface that distributes grinding forces across multiple contact points simultaneously, which reduces the load on any individual tooth.
Best for: Moderate-to-severe grinding, TMJ disorder, patients who have cracked or worn down enamel, anyone whose soft guard has already failed.
Lifespan: 2–5 years with proper care.
The downside: Hard guards have a longer adjustment period. Most patients need 2–4 weeks before wearing one through the night comfortably. Wearing it for shorter periods at first helps.
Hybrid guards combine both materials: a soft EVA inner layer that moulds comfortably against your teeth and a hard acrylic outer shell that resists grinding forces. They're the most popular option among online dental labs in Canada, including those shipping custom guards from CAD $129.
Best for: Moderate grinders who want comfort without sacrificing durability. Also the easiest transition for patients moving away from boil-and-bite OTC guards.
Lifespan: 1–3 years depending on grinding severity.
| Feature | Soft | Hard | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort (first week) | Excellent | Moderate | Good |
| Protection (heavy grinders) | Limited | Excellent | Good |
| Lifespan | 6–12 months | 2–5 years | 1–3 years |
| TMJ symptom relief | Limited | Best | Moderate |
| Risk of worsening clenching | Higher | None | Low |
| Entry price (custom, Canada) | From $129 CAD | From $199 CAD | From $169 CAD |
Soft guards are the right starting point for a specific subset of patients:
If you've worn a soft guard for more than 3 months and are still waking up with jaw pain or headaches, that's a clear signal to move to a dual-laminate or hard guard.
Dental sleep medicine specialists consistently recommend hard acrylic guards for anyone with:
The adjustment period is real, but it's manageable. Wear the guard for 2–3 hours before sleep for the first week to get accustomed to the feeling, then progress to wearing it all night.
Hybrid guards hit the sweet spot for most moderate grinders. The soft inner layer adapts to your tooth surface for a secure, comfortable fit, while the hard outer shell takes the grinding impact without deforming. They're also the most commonly available format through online custom labs in Canada.
The main limitation: hybrid guards aren't adjustable for bite alignment the way a pure hard acrylic guard is. If your dentist has recommended bite equilibration for TMJ treatment, a full hard guard is the better choice.
Significantly. Boil-and-bite guards from Shoppers Drug Mart or Amazon fit loosely, move during sleep, and are typically made from lower-grade EVA. A loose guard can shift tooth position over time, especially if worn nightly for months.
Custom night guards in Canada are fabricated in a dental lab from your actual tooth impressions. The fit is precise, the material grade is clinical, and the occlusal surface is even. At-home impression kit providers like NewSmile Canada deliver lab-made custom guards starting at $129 CAD — roughly 70–80% less than a dentist's $400–$800 clinic price — using the same materials and manufacturing process.
If you're comparing against other online custom night guard brands in Canada, the key differences to check are: which material types they offer, whether the lab is Canadian or US-based (which affects customs), and whether shipping is included in the CAD price.
Regardless of material type, cleaning your night guard consistently extends its lifespan significantly. Rinse with cold water immediately after removing it each morning. For a deeper clean, use an ultrasonic cleaner designed for dental appliances — these remove biofilm, bacteria, and staining far more effectively than manual brushing, which can micro-scratch soft or hybrid guards and create surface areas where bacteria accumulate. Never use hot water, which warps the fit.
Protect your teeth with a lab-made custom night guard from NewSmile Canada.
Available in soft, dual-laminate, and hard acrylic. Made from your at-home impressions by a dental lab — no clinic visit, no clinic pricing. Ships Canada-wide and we ship as soon as production is complete.
For most bruxism patients in Canada, a hard or dual-laminate (hybrid) night guard is clinically preferred. Soft guards are comfortable but wear down quickly and can encourage heavier clenching in some patients. Hard acrylic guards provide better protection, last longer, and offer better relief for TMJ-related jaw pain. See our guide on night guard costs in Canada for current pricing across all types.
A soft custom night guard typically lasts 6–12 months. A dual-laminate guard lasts 1–3 years. A hard acrylic guard can last 2–5 years with proper care. Lifespan depends heavily on bruxism severity — heavy grinders will replace guards more frequently regardless of material.
Yes. At-home impression kit providers like NewSmile Canada offer custom hard, soft, and dual-laminate night guards fabricated by a dental lab. The process uses the same impression-to-lab workflow as a dental clinic, at a fraction of the cost. Guards are shipped Canada-wide with no currency conversion or customs surprises.
As of 2026, the Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover custom night guards for bruxism. However, custom night guards may qualify as a medical expense under the CRA's Medical Expense Tax Credit. If your employer provides a Health Spending Account (HSA), a bruxism night guard is typically an eligible claim — check your plan documentation or consult a tax professional.
Thickness depends on grinding severity. Light grinders typically do well with a 1–1.5mm soft guard. Moderate grinders benefit from a 2mm dual-laminate guard. Heavy grinders and TMJ patients generally need a 3mm hard acrylic guard. Most online labs in Canada offer multiple thickness options when you order.
In some cases, a soft night guard can make clenching more intense. The pliable material gives jaw muscles a surface to engage against more forcefully. This is why dental specialists typically recommend hard acrylic for diagnosed bruxism. If your symptoms worsen after starting a soft guard, switching to a hard or hybrid guard usually resolves the problem. Learn more about custom vs boil-and-bite night guards for teeth grinding in Canada.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you grind your teeth at night, you already know how hard it is to find a custom night guard that doesn't require a dentist visit and a $600+ bill. Two brands come up constantly when Canadians search online: Cheeky and NewSmile. Both ship direct to your door. Both use home impression kits. But they are built for very different markets â and the one that's right for you depends heavily on where you're ordering from.
This is a full comparison for Canadian buyers specifically. Pricing, process, materials, turnaround, and the currency issue Cheeky never mentions on its product page.
Cheeky is a US-based direct-to-consumer dental brand that sells custom night guards through a mail-in impression process. You order the kit, take impressions of your teeth at home, mail it back to their US lab, and receive a custom-fitted guard. Their product line runs from soft EVA guards to dual-layer (hard acrylic outer shell, soft inner cushion) guards used for heavier grinding.
Cheeky's guards are well-reviewed in the United States. The problem for Canadians: Cheeky operates entirely in USD and ships from the US. There is no Canadian storefront, no CAD pricing, and no information on their site about duties, taxes, or customs fees for Canadian orders. As of 2026, their single-guard pricing starts at approximately US$163 â which converts to roughly $220â$225 CAD at current exchange rates, before any import fees CBSA may apply.
That cost creep is real. A standard Cheeky night guard that looks affordable on their homepage can land on your doorstep costing $250â$280+ CAD by the time all charges clear. There is no way to know upfront, and Cheeky's checkout does not disclose this for Canadian addresses.
NewSmile's night guard is designed and priced for the Canadian market. Available at newsmilelife.ca, the process works as follows:
NewSmile offers both soft guards for light-to-moderate grinding and dual-layer guards for heavier bruxism. Pricing starts at $129 CAD, with no currency conversion, no hidden import fees, and free shipping across Canada. Everything is priced, processed, and supported within Canada.
NewSmile also ships as soon as production is complete â there's no artificial delay built into the process. Typical turnaround from impression receipt to delivery is a few weeks, comparable to any custom dental lab.
| Feature | Cheeky | NewSmile Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Base price | US$163+ (~$220+ CAD) | From $129 CAD |
| Canadian pricing | No â USD only | Yes â CAD |
| Import duties/customs | Possible â not disclosed | None |
| Process | Mail-in impression | Mail-in impression |
| Guard options | Soft, dual-layer | Soft, dual-layer |
| Ships from | United States | Canada |
| Canadian support | US-based only | Canadian team |
This deserves its own section because it catches a lot of Canadian buyers off guard. Cheeky's website displays prices in USD. When a Canadian customer checks out, their credit card processes the charge in USD, and the Canadian bank applies a foreign exchange conversion â typically 2.5â3% above the posted rate. So the ~$220 CAD estimate at the time of order can easily become $225â$228 CAD by the time it appears on your statement.
Then there is the CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency) consideration. Custom-fabricated dental appliances shipped from the US to Canada can attract duties and GST/HST depending on classification. Cheeky does not address this anywhere in their Canadian ordering flow. Some customers report no additional charges; others report a CBSA fee on delivery. You have no way to know which outcome you'll get until the parcel arrives.
NewSmile eliminates this entirely. Every order on newsmilelife.ca is in CAD, processed domestically, and shipped without crossing a border. What you see at checkout is what you pay.
For a complete picture of what you should expect to pay for a custom night guard in Canada, see our guide: How Much Does a Night Guard Cost in Canada? (2026 Buyer's Guide).
Cheeky has a solid reputation in the US, particularly for their dual-layer guard's durability. The hard outer shell resists wear from heavy grinders, while the softer inner layer protects tooth enamel. This is the same two-material construction NewSmile uses for their dual-layer option.
The quality difference between the two products is not significant enough to justify paying 40â50% more CAD for a Cheeky guard after currency conversion â especially when you factor in the customs uncertainty. Both are custom-fabricated from dental impressions. Both use lab-grade materials. The clinical outcome â a guard that fits your teeth precisely and prevents grinding damage â is functionally identical.
Where Cheeky has historically invested more is in branding and packaging. If that matters to you, it's worth knowing. But for Canadian bruxism sufferers focused on protecting their teeth without overpaying, the price gap is not justified by any clinical difference in the guards themselves.
To see how the major Canadian night guard brands stack up, read: Best Night Guard Canada 2026: Every Major Brand Compared.
Choose NewSmile if: You want a custom night guard in CAD with no currency surprises, free Canadian shipping, and support from a Canadian team. This applies to the vast majority of Canadian buyers â the pricing alone makes it the default choice.
Choose Cheeky if: You are a US-based buyer (or have a US address and credit card) and want a well-reviewed American brand with a strong track record. For Canadians specifically, the value proposition doesn't hold up.
If you are unsure whether you need a night guard or a retainer, this guide will help: Retainer vs Night Guard Canada: Which Do You Actually Need?
Protect your teeth from grinding â without paying USD conversion fees.
NewSmile's custom night guard is made from your impressions, built to fit your exact bite, and starts at $129 CAD with free shipping across Canada. No dentist visit, no border fees, no currency surprises.
Yes, Cheeky can ship to Canadian addresses, but they price and charge in USD with no CAD equivalent. Canadian buyers absorb currency conversion costs and may face CBSA customs fees on delivery. The total landed cost is typically $220â$280+ CAD, compared to NewSmile's $129 CAD with no import surprises.
For Canadian buyers, the best option is one with CAD pricing, domestic shipping, and no customs uncertainty. NewSmile's custom night guard meets all three criteria, starting at $129 CAD. See our full best night guard Canada 2026 roundup for a complete ranking.
Custom night guards in Canada range from $129 CAD (online labs like NewSmile) to $600â$800+ CAD from a traditional dental clinic. The quality from a reputable online lab is equivalent to what a dentist office sends out â both use the same fabrication process. For a full breakdown, see How Much Does a Night Guard Cost in Canada?
Both brands use custom-fabricated dual-layer guards made from dental-grade materials. The clinical quality is comparable. Cheeky has strong brand recognition in the US, but for Canadian buyers the added cost from currency conversion and potential customs fees is not justified by any measurable difference in the guard itself.
Custom occlusal night guards are commonly recommended for both bruxism (teeth grinding) and TMJ symptom management. A properly fitted guard reduces the pressure on your temporomandibular joint during sleep and prevents further enamel wear. Both Cheeky and NewSmile's dual-layer guards serve this dual function.
As of 2026, the CDCP covers certain dental services for eligible Canadians, but coverage for night guards and occlusal splints varies by province and individual plan coverage. Online-ordered custom guards purchased directly from labs like NewSmile are generally out-of-pocket purchases. Check with your provincial dental coverage or extended benefits provider for details specific to your plan.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you've been researching custom retainers in Canada, Smile Brilliant has probably come up. They're well-known for their teeth whitening products and have built a reputation as a direct-to-consumer dental lab. But how do they actually perform for Canadian buyers looking for a clear retainer — and how do they compare to NewSmile Canada, which operates from within Canada?
This guide breaks down everything Canadians need to know before ordering: what you actually get, how the cross-border experience plays out, and whether Smile Brilliant's retainer holds up against a Canadian-based alternative.
Smile Brilliant is a US-based direct-to-consumer dental lab. Their primary product line centres on custom teeth whitening trays, but they have expanded into night guards, clear retainers, and sports guards. Their model works through an at-home impression kit: you receive a tray and putty, take dental impressions yourself, mail them back to the US lab, and the finished appliance is shipped to you. Smile Brilliant is FDA-registered and has served a large customer base in the US. However, they are not a Canadian company and do not have a Canadian storefront or CAD pricing.
Smile Brilliant's custom clear retainer is an Essix-style retainer — the same thin, transparent plastic tray type used by most online labs and by orthodontists post-treatment. They offer both upper and lower arch options.
All Smile Brilliant prices are listed in USD. There is no CAD pricing on their site. The USD-to-CAD exchange rate means any product priced in USD costs approximately 35-40% more in Canadian dollars before adding any fees.
For Canadian orders, Smile Brilliant charges international shipping both ways: once to send the impression kit, and once to deliver the finished retainer. Return shipping of impressions from Canada typically runs an additional $15-$25 CAD from Canada Post.
Dental appliances shipped from the US to Canada may be subject to customs duties and HST/GST at the border. Smile Brilliant explicitly notes they are not responsible for customs fees or import taxes.
Canadians typically wait 4-7 weeks total for any impression-kit product from a US lab, vs. 2-3 weeks for a domestic Canadian lab.
| Smile Brilliant | NewSmile Canada | |
|---|---|---|
| Based in | USA | Canada |
| Currency | USD (no CAD option) | CAD — $99 |
| Shipping to Canada | International (paid, both ways) | Canada-wide, included |
| Customs risk | Yes — not covered | None |
| GST/HST invoicing | US company — varies | Canadian invoice included |
| Customer support | US timezone | Canadian team |
Many Canadians with employer dental benefits or HSA coverage want to submit a CAD invoice for a retainer claim. A USD invoice from a US company complicates reimbursement. NewSmile Canada issues a Canadian invoice in CAD. For more on retainer costs in Canada, see our complete Canadian retainer pricing guide.
Retainers need regular replacement every 12-24 months. Each replacement order from a US lab means repeating the entire cross-border process. With NewSmile Canada replacements, orders are placed in CAD with no customs friction.
For the vast majority of Canadians, the math doesn't work in Smile Brilliant's favour for a standalone retainer purchase. USD-to-CAD conversion, international shipping both ways, return postage, and potential customs fees make the total cost considerably higher than $99 CAD all-in from a Canadian lab.
If you're comparing all your options, our guide to ordering retainers online in Canada vs. a dentist covers the full decision in more detail.
Order a Canadian-made custom clear retainer — no cross-border hassle.
NewSmile Canada retainers are priced at $99 CAD, shipped Canada-wide with no customs risk, and invoiced in CAD for insurance or HSA claims.
Yes, Smile Brilliant ships internationally to Canada. However, all pricing is in USD, and Canadian customers are responsible for international shipping both ways plus any applicable customs fees and duties at the border.
The total landed cost for a Canadian buyer includes the USD product price (adding approximately 35-40% for CAD conversion), international shipping both ways, return postage for impressions, and potential customs duties — making the actual CAD-equivalent cost considerably higher than the listed USD price.
No. Smile Brilliant is based in the United States and does not have a Canadian storefront, CAD pricing, or a Canadian lab.
NewSmile Canada offers custom Essix clear retainers at $99 CAD for both upper and lower arches, with Canada-wide shipping included. Order here.
Potentially, but with complications. Canadian dental plans and HSAs typically require a CAD invoice. A USD invoice from a US company may not be accepted by all plan administrators. NewSmile Canada issues a standard Canadian invoice that most dental benefit plans process straightforwardly.
Total turnaround commonly runs 4-7 weeks for Canadian orders, compared to 2-3 weeks for domestic Canadian lab orders.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you grind your teeth at night, you have probably landed on ClearClub while searching for a custom night guard. They run aggressive ads, they look polished, and their price point appears reasonable at first glance. But there is a wrinkle Canadians quickly discover: ClearClub is a US company, and buying from them means navigating USD pricing, international shipping timelines, and the unpredictability of customs duties.
This guide compares ClearClub and NewSmile Canada head to head — on price, materials, fit process, turnaround, and what the fine print actually says — so you can make a clear decision for your teeth and your wallet.
ClearClub is a US-based direct-to-consumer dental guard company that sells custom night guards via an at-home impression kit. They offer three guard thickness options — soft, medium, and hard — and market heavily to bruxism sufferers who want a dentist-quality guard without the dentist markup. Their base pricing starts around $139 USD, which sounds reasonable until you factor in the exchange rate.
For Canadians, that $139 USD becomes roughly $190 CAD at current exchange rates, before factoring in any customs clearance fees that Canada Border Services Agency may assess on dental devices. The actual landed cost varies and ClearClub does not publish a clear CAD price for Canadian buyers.
NewSmile Canada is a Health Canada-registered custom night guard and retainer provider that prices and ships directly within Canada. Canadians pay in CAD — no currency conversion surprises — and the impression kit process is handled domestically from start to finish. NewSmile offers a hard acrylic night guard, the clinical standard for moderate-to-severe bruxism, with pricing starting from $99 CAD.
| Feature | ClearClub | NewSmile Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | ~$139 USD (~$190 CAD + potential customs) | From $99 CAD — no conversion |
| Currency | USD only | CAD |
| Guard Materials | Soft, medium, hard options | Hard acrylic (clinical standard) |
| Impression Process | At-home putty impressions | At-home putty impressions |
| Shipping to Canada | International — timelines vary, customs risk | Domestic Canadian shipping |
| Health Canada Registration | Not confirmed for Canadian market | Health Canada registered |
| Customs/Duties | Possible — not disclosed upfront | None — ships within Canada |
| Warranty/Remake Policy | 90-day remake policy | Satisfaction guarantee — contact support |
ClearClub lists their night guards in USD. When a Canadian buyer checks out, the actual charge depends on when the transaction processes and what exchange rate your bank applies. On a typical day in 2026, $139 USD converts to roughly $188–$195 CAD. Add international shipping (often $15–$25 USD for cross-border orders) and the landed price for a basic ClearClub guard approaches $215–$230 CAD before any CBSA assessment.
Canada Border Services Agency classifies dental devices, and while many small-value items pass through duty-free, there is no guaranteed exemption. If your package is flagged, you may owe additional fees — and the return process for a disputed customs charge on a dental device is not straightforward.
NewSmile Canada eliminates this entirely. You pay in CAD, the kit ships from within Canada, and your guard ships back to you domestically. The price you see is the price you pay.
ClearClub offers three thicknesses: soft (2mm), medium (3mm), and hard (2mm hard acrylic). The soft guard is the most popular but is not recommended by most dental associations for moderate-to-severe bruxism — soft material actually encourages clenching in many patients, which can worsen jaw fatigue over time.
NewSmile Canada uses a hard acrylic material, which is the clinical standard for bruxism treatment. Hard acrylic does not compress under grinding pressure the way soft material does, meaning it protects both the guard and your teeth more effectively. If you grind hard enough to wear through a night guard, hard acrylic will outlast soft alternatives significantly.
If you are unsure whether you are a light or heavy grinder, read our guide on custom vs boil-and-bite night guards for Canadian bruxism sufferers before deciding on a material.
Both ClearClub and NewSmile use an at-home impression kit. You press dental putty into a tray, bite down, hold for a set time, and mail the impressions back. A dental lab then fabricates a custom guard from your exact bite shape.
The core difference is logistics. ClearClub sends impressions to their US lab and ships your finished guard back across the border — adding days to the turnaround and reintroducing the customs variable. NewSmile's Canadian fulfilment keeps everything within one postal system, which translates to more predictable delivery windows.
Night guards do not cure TMJ disorder, but they do reduce the clenching force transmitted to your jaw joint during sleep — which is the primary cause of waking up with jaw soreness or headaches. For Canadians dealing with bruxism-related TMJ pain, a hard acrylic guard worn consistently is one of the most well-supported conservative treatments available without a prescription.
If your symptoms are severe, see a dentist or oral medicine specialist first. A night guard is a management tool, not a diagnostic device. For more detail on what a custom guard can and cannot do for TMJ, see our full guide on custom night guards for TMJ and jaw pain in Canada.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan does not currently cover custom night guards as a standard benefit. Night guards fall under elective or preventive dental care, and CDCP coverage is structured around essential dental services for eligible lower-income Canadians. Your private dental insurance plan may cover a portion of a custom guard under a "major restorative" or "preventive appliance" category — check your EOB or contact your insurer directly before purchasing.
Because NewSmile Canada provides an itemized CAD receipt, submitting to private insurance for partial reimbursement is more straightforward than with a USD-denominated invoice from a foreign provider, which some insurers require to be converted and notarized before processing.
Ready to protect your teeth from grinding — without the cross-border hassle?
NewSmile Canada ships custom hard acrylic night guards domestically in CAD from $99. No currency conversion, no customs risk, and no dentist appointment required.
Yes, ClearClub ships to Canada, but they price in USD and ship internationally. This means Canadian buyers face currency conversion, potentially higher shipping costs, and possible CBSA customs duties that are not disclosed at checkout. The effective landed cost for a Canadian buyer is often $200–$230 CAD for their base guard.
Yes. NewSmile Canada is a Health Canada-registered provider of custom dental appliances including night guards and retainers. They operate as a Canadian company, price in CAD, and fulfil orders domestically without cross-border complications.
For moderate-to-severe bruxism, a custom hard acrylic night guard is the clinical standard. OTC boil-and-bite guards from pharmacies are inadequate for consistent grinders. NewSmile Canada and domestic dental labs both offer custom hard acrylic options — the key advantage of NewSmile is cost and the at-home ordering process that skips the dentist markup for a straightforward fabrication case.
A dentist-fabricated custom night guard typically costs $400–$800 CAD. Online Canadian providers like NewSmile offer custom hard acrylic guards from $99 CAD. US providers that ship to Canada like ClearClub appear cheaper on their website, but effective CAD pricing after conversion and shipping is usually $200–$230 CAD. For a full breakdown, see our guide on night guard costs in Canada for 2026.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover custom night guards. However, many private dental insurance plans include partial coverage for custom dental appliances under preventive or major restorative categories. Check your plan details and request an itemized CAD receipt from your provider to support the claim. A domestic Canadian receipt (CAD) is generally easier for insurers to process than a USD invoice from a US company.
A hard acrylic custom night guard typically lasts 2–5 years depending on grinding severity. Light grinders may get 5+ years from a single guard. Heavy grinders who wear through the acrylic surface should replace annually. Signs you need a replacement include visible bite-through grooves, cracking, or a guard that no longer seats flat against your teeth.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you wake up with a sore jaw, worn teeth, or a dull headache, you may already know the culprit: bruxism, the clinical term for unconscious teeth grinding during sleep. It affects an estimated 8–10% of Canadians and is one of the most common reasons people seek out a night guard. But with options ranging from $15 pharmacy trays to $600 dentist appliances, choosing the right one is genuinely confusing.
This guide cuts through the noise. Here is what actually protects your teeth from grinding — and what wastes your money.
Bruxism happens when your jaw muscles clench and slide your upper and lower teeth against each other, usually during sleep. You often have no idea it’s happening until your dentist notices flat spots on your enamel, or a partner tells you they can hear it from across the room.
Common causes include:
Left untreated, chronic grinding can fracture teeth, wear away enamel, damage fillings, inflame jaw muscles, and lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. A night guard doesn’t cure bruxism, but it acts as a protective barrier that prevents the damage.
Not all night guards are the same. Here is what you will find at different price points across Canada:
| Type | Where to Get It | Approx. Cost (CAD) | Protection Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boil-and-bite | Shoppers, London Drugs, Amazon | $15–$40 | Low — generic fit |
| Custom online | NewSmile, JS Dental Lab, Remi | $100–$250 | High — dental lab quality |
| Dentist-made | Your dental clinic | $400–$650+ | High — dental lab quality |
The key insight: custom online guards and dentist-made guards use the same dental lab fabrication process. The difference is not quality — it is cost and convenience. Online providers skip the clinic overhead and pass the savings directly to you.
Boil-and-bite guards have an obvious appeal: you can pick one up tonight for under $20. But their limitations become clear quickly:
A custom-fitted guard made from dental-grade materials holds your jaw in a stable, neutral position. The occlusal surface (the biting area) is precisely calibrated to your teeth, which distributes pressure evenly and reduces the grinding reflex itself. Clinical studies published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation consistently show that properly fitted occlusal splints reduce both muscle tension and enamel wear compared to no treatment.
If you are ordering a custom night guard for teeth grinding specifically, the material matters:
If you grind heavily, go with hard or dual-laminate. Soft alone may not cut it.
The traditional path — dentist consultation, in-office impressions, lab fabrication — runs $400–$650+ CAD at most Canadian clinics. Most provincial dental plans and the CDCP do not cover night guards as a standard benefit (they are classified as appliances, not diagnostic procedures).
The alternative is a custom online night guard:
The guard is fabricated by the same type of professional dental lab used by clinics. The materials, the precision fit, and the durability are equivalent. The only difference is you skip the $200 dentist chair fee.
See how costs compare in our 2026 Canadian night guard cost breakdown →
A quality custom night guard lasts 2–5 years with proper care. The basics:
Stop grinding in your sleep — without paying $600 at the dentist
NewSmile Canada’s custom night guard is made by a professional dental lab from your at-home impression. Choose soft, hard, or dual-laminate based on your grinding intensity — shipped directly across Canada.
A night guard doesn’t eliminate bruxism, but it prevents the damage grinding causes. It creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth and positions your jaw in a way that reduces grinding intensity. Many users notice less morning jaw soreness within a few weeks of consistent wear.
Yes. Online providers like NewSmile Canada use at-home impression kits and professional dental lab fabrication. You take impressions yourself, mail them to the lab, and receive a custom-fitted guard — no clinic visit required. The quality is equivalent to what your dentist would provide.
Hard acrylic or dual-laminate guards are recommended for moderate-to-severe bruxism. A hard surface is less likely to trigger the clenching reflex than a soft guard, making it more effective at reducing grinding force. If you grind heavily, avoid soft-only guards.
Most custom night guards last 2–5 years with proper care. Heavy grinders may wear through a guard faster — typically 1–3 years. If you notice cracks, rough edges, or the guard no longer fits snugly, it’s time to replace it.
Most provincial plans and the CDCP do not cover night guards as of 2026. Some private dental benefit plans offer partial coverage under the “appliance” or “prosthodontic” category — check your plan documents. An online night guard significantly reduces your out-of-pocket cost regardless of coverage status.
Rinse with cool water after every use. For a deep clean, use the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner with Petal Cleaning Pods — ultrasonic cleaning removes bacteria and mineral deposits without scratching the surface. Never soak in hot water or clean with abrasive toothpaste, which degrades the material over time.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you wake up with a sore jaw, tender temples, or a clicking sound when you open your mouth, you may have been told you have TMJ disorder — or TMD. It affects an estimated 4 in 10 Canadians at some point in their lives, and bruxism (teeth grinding) is one of the most common triggers. A custom night guard is often the first line of treatment recommended by Canadian dentists. But with clinic prices running into the hundreds of dollars, many Canadians are now asking: is there a better option?
This guide breaks down what TMJ disorder actually is, how night guards help, and what Canadians should look for — and how much they should expect to pay in 2026.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. It’s the hinge that lets you chew, speak, and yawn. TMJ disorder (TMD) is a catch-all term for pain and dysfunction in that joint and the muscles that control it.
Common symptoms in Canada include:
Bruxism — unconscious clenching or grinding during sleep — is closely linked to TMD. The repeated muscle contractions overload the joint, leading to inflammation and the characteristic morning soreness that many Canadians recognize.
The short answer: yes, for most cases. A night guard works by creating a physical barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This does two things:
Multiple studies published in journals including the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation have found that occlusal splints (the clinical term for night guards) significantly reduce morning jaw pain and muscle tenderness in patients with TMD compared to no treatment.
It’s worth noting what a night guard doesn’t do: it won’t cure the underlying cause of bruxism, which is often stress-related, and it won’t reverse structural damage to the joint. For severe or progressive TMD, a Canadian dentist or specialist is still an important resource. But for the vast majority of Canadians dealing with grinding-related jaw pain, a quality custom guard is one of the most practical and effective interventions available.
Not all night guards are the same, and for TMJ specifically, the type of material matters.
| Type | Best For | TMJ Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soft guard | Mild grinding, comfort | Can increase clenching reflex in some users — not always ideal for TMD |
| Hard (acrylic) guard | Heavy grinding, TMJ pain | Most studied for TMD; preferred by many Canadian dentists |
| Dual-laminate | Moderate grinding, comfort + protection | Soft inside, hard outside — good balance for most Canadian TMD cases |
For most Canadians with bruxism-related TMJ pain, a dual-laminate or hard guard provides the best combination of protection and jaw repositioning. Avoid generic boil-and-bite guards from Shoppers Drug Mart or London Drugs — they don’t conform precisely enough to your bite and can actually worsen jaw muscle tension over time.
This is where the picture changes significantly for Canadian consumers. A dentist-made night guard in Canada typically involves:
Total: $400–$650+ CAD, depending on your province and clinic. Toronto and Vancouver clinics often run at the higher end. Most provincial dental plans (including the CDCP as of 2026) do not cover night guards as a standard benefit — they’re typically classified as an appliance, not a diagnostic procedure.
Custom online options like NewSmile Canada use the same dental-lab fabrication process but skip the clinic overhead. You take an impression at home using a simple putty kit, mail it to the lab, and receive your finished guard by post. The result is a clinically equivalent guard at a fraction of the in-office price.
For Canadians already struggling with TMJ pain, the financial barrier to entry is a real consideration. Getting effective relief shouldn’t require a $600 outlay upfront.
See the full 2026 night guard cost breakdown for Canada →
Wearing the guard is only part of the equation. To get the most benefit for TMJ pain:
A night guard is a strong first step, but some TMD cases need more targeted care. See a Canadian dentist or a TMJ specialist (orofacial pain specialist or prosthodontist) if:
In these cases, additional treatments — including physiotherapy, occlusal adjustment, or in rare cases, surgery — may be appropriate. The Canadian Dental Association recommends starting with conservative, reversible treatments like a custom night guard before pursuing more invasive options.
Protect your jaw from overnight grinding — without the $600 dentist bill
NewSmile Canada’s custom night guard is fabricated by a professional dental lab from your at-home impression. Same materials, same precision, a fraction of the clinic price — shipped directly to your door across Canada.
No — a night guard manages symptoms rather than curing the underlying condition. It reduces the mechanical stress on the temporomandibular joint caused by grinding and clenching, which relieves morning jaw pain and soreness for most users. For persistent or severe TMD, a Canadian dentist or orofacial pain specialist should be consulted.
Most Canadians notice a reduction in morning jaw soreness within 1–3 weeks of consistent nightly use. Full symptom improvement can take 4–8 weeks as the jaw muscles adapt to the new resting position provided by the guard.
As of 2026, the CDCP does not cover custom night guards or occlusal splints. These are classified as appliances rather than diagnostic or restorative procedures. Some provincial dental plans and private insurance plans offer partial coverage — check your policy’s "appliance" or "prosthodontic" benefit. An online night guard reduces out-of-pocket costs significantly regardless of coverage.
Hard or dual-laminate guards are generally better for TMJ-related grinding. Soft guards can feel more comfortable initially but may increase clenching intensity in some people, which is counterproductive for TMD management. Most Canadian dentists recommend a hard acrylic or dual-laminate splint for bruxism-related jaw pain.
For the majority of Canadians with bruxism-related jaw pain, a custom online night guard provides the same level of protection as a dentist-issued guard. The key is precision fit — generic boil-and-bite guards from a pharmacy won’t give you the right occlusal balance. NewSmile Canada uses a dental lab with the same impression process as in-office guards, making it a clinically appropriate alternative for most TMD cases.
Rinse with cool water after each use. For weekly deep cleaning, use the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner with Petal Cleaning Pods — this removes bacteria and mineral deposits without scratching the guard surface. Never use a toothbrush with toothpaste or hot water, as both degrade the material over time.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you've been searching for a custom retainer online and landed on JS Dental Lab, you're not alone. The Texas-based lab has built a strong reputation in the US market — and technically, yes, they do ship to Canada. But "ships to Canada" and "worth it in Canada" are two different questions entirely.
This review breaks down exactly what Canadian buyers need to know before ordering from JS Dental Lab, how it compares to NewSmile Canada's custom retainers, and whether the extra cost and shipping friction is justified.
JS Dental Lab is a US dental lab based in Texas that has sold direct-to-consumer dental appliances since 2016. They offer custom clear retainers, night guards, and whitening trays — all made from at-home impressions you take yourself and mail back to their lab.
They hold a 4.0 TrustScore on Trustpilot and are regularly listed in US "best retainer" roundups. NewMouth has called their night guard "the best overall pick" for US buyers who want real customization without dentist pricing. Their retainer carries the same lab quality and a notable 365-day satisfaction guarantee.
The issue for Canadians is not the product — it's the logistics and price once you cross the border.
JS Dental Lab's custom clear retainer is listed at $149 USD. At current exchange rates, that's over $205 CAD — before you account for the return shipping complication.
When you order, JS Dental Lab sends you an impression kit. You take your impressions, then mail them back to the lab in Texas. Here's where it gets frustrating for Canadians: the prepaid return shipping label they include is for US residents only. As a Canadian customer, you are responsible for purchasing your own shipping back to their Texas lab — typically $15–$30 CAD via Canada Post or FedEx.
That brings the real Canadian cost to roughly $220–$235 CAD all-in for a single retainer. And if anything goes wrong with your impression, you repeat the process and pay again.
| Factor | JS Dental Lab | NewSmile Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Price (retainer) | $149 USD (~$205+ CAD) | From $139 CAD (subscription) / $199 CAD one-time |
| Return shipping (Canada) | Not included — you pay $15–$30 CAD | Free (Canadian company) |
| Based in | Texas, USA | Vancouver, BC, Canada |
| Health Canada licensed | FDA-cleared (US only) | Yes — licensed by Health Canada |
| Satisfaction guarantee | 365 days | 30-day fit guarantee |
| Impression kit | At-home (return shipping extra in CA) | At-home (free return shipping) |
| HSA/FSA eligible | Possible (US plans) | May qualify under Canadian flex benefits |
The 365-day guarantee is genuinely exceptional — if your retainer doesn't fit, warps, or breaks within a year, JS Dental Lab will remake it. That's a stronger policy than most competitors, and it reflects real confidence in their lab work.
Their clear retainer is made from FDA-cleared thermoplastic and the construction quality is consistently praised in customer reviews. The process is simple: order, receive kit, take impressions, mail back, receive retainer. For US customers who've gone through it before, it's routine.
They also offer a small customization detail that some buyers appreciate — you can specify arch (upper, lower, or both) at checkout rather than being locked into a bundle.
Beyond the shipping and pricing issues above, there are a few other friction points worth knowing:
Customer service time zones. JS Dental Lab is based in Texas (Central Time). If you have a question about your impression quality — which they recommend emailing photos of before mailing back — you're coordinating across a cross-border communication channel. It works, but it adds friction that a Canadian company doesn't create.
No Health Canada licensing. This matters if you want your purchase to qualify under extended health benefits or a flex spending account. NewSmile Canada's products are licensed under Health Canada, which is often a requirement for benefit plan reimbursement. JS Dental Lab holds FDA clearance for the US market, which is not the same thing.
Currency and customs uncertainty. Depending on the order, Canadian buyers may encounter additional customs processing fees. This is uncommon for dental appliances but worth knowing.
If you've already had a great experience with JS Dental Lab for a night guard and want to order a matching retainer from a lab you trust — that's a reasonable case. Their quality is real, the 365-day guarantee is meaningful, and the impression process is well-documented.
But if you're a first-time buyer comparing options, the numbers don't favour them in Canada. You'd be paying roughly $220–$235 CAD all-in for a retainer that starts at $139 CAD from a Health Canada-licensed Canadian company.
For Canadians who did their orthodontic treatment here and want a straightforward retainer replacement without cross-border logistics, NewSmile Canada makes the more practical case.
If you've already compared night guard options, our JS Dental Lab Canada night guard comparison covers that side of their product range in full detail.
Get a Custom Retainer in Canada — Without Cross-Border Hassle
NewSmile Canada ships everything from Vancouver. Health Canada licensed, free impression kit included, and free return shipping. Retainers start from $139 CAD on subscription.
Yes, JS Dental Lab ships their custom clear retainers to Canada. However, the at-home impression kit comes with a prepaid US return shipping label only — Canadian customers must arrange and pay for their own return shipping to the Texas lab, which typically costs an additional $15–$30 CAD via Canada Post or FedEx.
JS Dental Lab's custom clear retainer is priced at $149 USD. At current exchange rates, that converts to approximately $205 CAD or more, plus the cost of Canadian return shipping for your impressions ($15–$30 CAD). The total Canadian cost is typically $220–$235 CAD.
No. JS Dental Lab holds FDA clearance in the United States, but is not specifically licensed by Health Canada. If you're seeking a retainer that may qualify for reimbursement under a Canadian extended health or flex benefit plan, a Health Canada-licensed provider like NewSmile Canada is the more reliable option.
JS Dental Lab offers a strong 365-day guarantee and well-reviewed lab quality, but costs more for Canadian buyers once exchange rates and return shipping are factored in. NewSmile Canada starts at $139 CAD on subscription, includes free impression kit return shipping, and is Health Canada licensed — making it the practical choice for most Canadians replacing a retainer.
For most Canadians, the best options are those that are Canadian-based or have strong Canadian logistics. NewSmile Canada offers custom Essix retainers from $139 CAD with no cross-border shipping friction. If you're comparing all options on cost and quality, our full retainer cost guide for Canada covers every major provider.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you've been quoted $7,500 CAD for Invisalign or told braces will cost you six thousand dollars, you're not alone. Most Canadians searching for teeth straightening options reach the same wall. The good news is that at-home clear aligners in Canada have made legitimate treatment accessible without the orthodontist price tag.
This guide breaks down exactly what clear aligners cost in Canada in 2026 — across every major option, from dentist-provided Invisalign down to the most affordable at-home kits — so you can make a comparison with real numbers.
The cost of clear aligners in Canada spans a huge range depending on where you get them. Here's a quick breakdown before we dig into each option:
| Option | Cost (CAD) | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Invisalign | $5,000–$7,500+ | Dentist / orthodontist |
| Braces (traditional) | $5,000–$7,000 | Orthodontist |
| ClearCorrect | $2,500–$5,500 | Dentist office |
| NewSmile Canada | $1,899 | At-home (online) |
| AlignerCo Canada | $1,120–$1,645 | At-home (online) |
The numbers above are based on publicly listed one-time payment prices as of mid-2026. Promotions and financing can change these figures — we've noted where that applies below.
Invisalign is the most recognized aligner brand globally, but in Canada it comes with a significant price tag. Most Canadians pay between $5,000 and $7,500 CAD for a full Invisalign treatment, with more complex cases pushing past that range. The cost is set by your individual orthodontist or dentist, so prices vary by clinic and province.
What drives Invisalign's cost:
Some Canadian dental insurance plans cover a portion of Invisalign under orthodontic benefits, typically up to $1,500–$2,500 CAD lifetime. HSA and FSA accounts can also be used to offset costs. Even with coverage, most patients pay $3,500+ CAD out of pocket.
ClearCorrect is a dentist-administered aligner system that tends to cost less than Invisalign but still requires in-office treatment. Typical Canadian pricing runs from $2,500 to $5,500 CAD, again set by the treating dentist.
The lower price compared to Invisalign reflects ClearCorrect's smaller market presence and less aggressive licensing fees. Clinically, results are comparable for mild to moderate cases — the tradeoff is that ClearCorrect has fewer certified providers in Canada, meaning less availability depending on your city.
This is where the cost picture changes significantly. At-home clear aligners in Canada skip the brick-and-mortar overhead entirely. Treatment starts with an at-home dental impression kit, your case is reviewed by a licensed dental professional remotely, and your aligners are custom-fabricated and shipped directly to you.
NewSmile currently offers full clear aligner treatment in Canada for $1,899 CAD (limited-time pricing; regular price is $2,099 CAD). That one-time payment includes:
Monthly payment options start at $79 CAD/month through Humm (0% interest, 24 months for night aligners) or $96 CAD/month for daytime aligners.
The treatment preview sets NewSmile apart. Before you pay for aligners, you see a 3D simulation of where your teeth will end up. That's meaningful reassurance for a $1,899 decision.
AlignerCo Canada operates alignerco.ca and markets itself as the lowest-cost option in the Canadian at-home aligner market. Their standard day aligner plan runs from approximately $1,120 to $1,460 CAD, with a NightOnly plan at a similar price point.
What's not included at the base price:
When you factor in retainers and potential refinements, the true total cost for AlignerCo often comes closer to $1,300–$1,800+ CAD — narrowing the gap with NewSmile considerably.
Night aligners are clear aligners worn only during sleep (typically 10 continuous hours). They're the right choice for people who speak professionally during the day, play contact sports, or simply find daytime wear inconvenient.
NewSmile's night aligner pricing in Canada is currently $1,899 CAD — the same as the day aligner plan. Treatment takes 8–10 months versus 4–6 months for 22-hour daily wear, but the flexibility is worth it for many patients. Monthly financing starts at $79 CAD/month with $0 down and 0% interest.
AlignerCo Canada's NightOnly plan is structured similarly, with a slightly lower base price but the same retainer and refinement caveats noted above.
Most major Canadian group insurance plans (Sun Life, Manulife, Great-West Life, etc.) include orthodontic benefits — and at-home clear aligners can qualify depending on your plan wording.
Key things to know:
If your plan covers 50% up to $1,500 CAD, your out-of-pocket cost for NewSmile could drop to as low as $399 CAD after reimbursement. Always verify your specific plan terms before treatment.
Both NewSmile and AlignerCo Canada offer financing options that let you spread the cost over 12–24 months, often at 0% interest for qualified applicants.
| Plan | Monthly | Terms |
|---|---|---|
| NewSmile Day Aligners | $96/mo | $0 down, 24 mo., via Humm |
| NewSmile Night Aligners | $79/mo | $0 down, 24 mo., 0% APR |
| AlignerCo Canada | From $134/mo | 6–12 mo. via Partially |
Humm (used by NewSmile) is widely used by Canadian consumers and doesn't require a hard credit pull for approval. The 24-month term makes aligner treatment accessible at roughly the same cost as a streaming subscription.
Before committing to any clear aligner brand in Canada, get clear answers to these five questions:
Start your clear aligner journey for $1,899 CAD — and see your projected results before you commit.
NewSmile includes a full treatment preview, whitening, remote monitoring, and free shipping. Financing from $79/month with $0 down.
At-home clear aligners in Canada typically cost $1,120–$1,899 CAD for a complete treatment. Dentist-provided options (Invisalign, ClearCorrect) run $2,500–$7,500+ CAD depending on case complexity and location.
For complex bite issues or significant crowding, Invisalign provides hands-on clinical oversight that at-home alternatives can't match. For mild to moderate cases — the majority of people who want straighter teeth — at-home clear aligners deliver comparable results at a fraction of the cost.
Yes, many Canadian dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits that can apply to clear aligners. Most plans have a lifetime maximum of $1,500–$2,500 CAD. HSA/FSA accounts also cover clear aligner expenses. Check your plan certificate for age restrictions and documentation requirements.
AlignerCo Canada currently offers the lowest published starting price at approximately $1,120 CAD. However, retainers are sold separately — when factored in, the total cost rises. NewSmile Canada starts at $1,899 CAD and includes retainers, whitening, and a treatment preview as part of the package.
Not necessarily. NewSmile Canada prices night aligners at the same rate as day aligners — $1,899 CAD. Night aligners take longer to complete (8–10 months vs. 4–6 months for 22-hour daily wear), but the cost is the same. See current night aligner pricing here →
At-home clear aligners are best for mild to moderate spacing, crowding, or minor bite issues. After you submit at-home impressions or dental scans, a licensed dentist reviews your case and determines candidacy. NewSmile offers a full refund if you're assessed as a non-candidate — so there's no risk in starting the process.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you've been searching for a custom night guard in Canada, Sentinel Mouthguards keeps coming up. They're a US-based dental lab with strong reviews and a well-organized product lineup. But there's a detail that gets buried in most comparisons: they price in USD, and they're shipping across the border. For Canadians dealing with bruxism, that changes the equation.
This review breaks down exactly what Sentinel offers, what it costs when you account for currency, and how it compares to a Canadian option like NewSmile's custom night guard.
Sentinel Mouthguards is a US dental lab based in St. Petersburg, Florida. They've been manufacturing custom night guards since 2012, and their process is similar to most direct-to-consumer guard brands: you order online, receive an at-home impression kit, send your impressions back, and they fabricate a guard from dental-grade materials.
What sets Sentinel apart from budget competitors is their "hand-finishing" process — each guard is trimmed and polished by a dental technician rather than machine-cut. They also accept digital scans from dentists, which is useful if you've already had a scan taken.
Sentinel offers four night guards, matched to grinding severity:
| Guard | Best For | Material | Thickness | USD Price | Est. CAD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort Guard | Light clenching, sensitivity | Soft EVA | 2mm | $140.25 USD | ~$192 CAD |
| Hybrid Guard | Moderate grinders (most popular) | Soft EVA inner, hard copolyester outer | 2mm | $161.50 USD | ~$221 CAD |
| Hard Guard | Heavy grinders | Hard copolyester | 2mm | $182.75 USD | ~$250 CAD |
| Durability Guard | Severe bruxism, dentist-confirmed | High-strength copolyester | 3mm | $199.75 USD | ~$274 CAD |
CAD estimates based on approximately 1.37 exchange rate. Actual costs vary with your bank's conversion rate and any foreign transaction fees.
Sentinel accepts Canadian orders through their website at sentinelmouthguards.com, and their guards are also available on Amazon.ca. All prices on their site are in USD. When you order as a Canadian customer:
Sentinel advertises "free shipping" — but this refers to their US standard shipping. International shipping to Canada may carry additional fees. Check their shipping policy at checkout before purchasing.
This is an area where Sentinel stands out. Their policies are among the most consumer-friendly in the category:
For Canadians, the $23 return fee is in USD (~$31 CAD), and return shipping from Canada to the US adds cost. Keep that in mind when evaluating the guarantee's practical value.
This is the single most important factor most Canadian comparisons skip over. Sentinel is a USD-priced product. Their entry-level Comfort Guard lists at $140.25 USD. At a 1.37 exchange rate, that's approximately $192 CAD before your bank's foreign transaction fee.
By contrast, NewSmile's custom night guard starts at $129 CAD — priced in Canadian dollars, with free shipping to every province and territory in Canada, and no currency conversion required.
The difference on the most popular guard type is significant:
That's a $50–$90 CAD gap on comparable products — before factoring in longer cross-border shipping times and any potential customs complications.
| Feature | Sentinel Mouthguards | NewSmile Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Where based | St. Petersburg, FL (USA) | Vancouver, BC (Canada) |
| Pricing currency | USD only | CAD |
| Entry price for Canadians | ~$192 CAD (after exchange) | From $129 CAD |
| Shipping to Canada | Cross-border, 7–14 days | Free Canada-wide, faster |
| Customs/duties risk | Possible on cross-border orders | None (Canadian company) |
| Impression process | At-home impression kit or digital scan | At-home impression kit |
| Guard types | 4 (Comfort, Hybrid, Hard, Durability) | Custom hard night guard |
| Materials | BPA/BPS/latex-free, FDA-compliant | Dental-grade, BPA-free |
| Guarantee | 100-night, $23 USD return fee | Satisfaction guarantee |
| Best for | Those with a digital scan from a dentist | Canadians wanting CAD pricing, fast shipping |
Sentinel isn't the wrong choice for every Canadian — there are situations where they make sense:
Outside of those scenarios, the USD pricing and cross-border shipping add cost and complexity that most Canadian bruxism sufferers don't need.
Canadian bruxism? Get a custom night guard in CAD with free shipping.
NewSmile's custom night guard starts at $129 CAD — no currency conversion, no cross-border wait, shipped to every province and territory in Canada.
Yes, Sentinel ships to Canada via their website (sentinelmouthguards.com) and through Amazon.ca. However, their prices are listed in USD, so Canadian customers will pay more once currency conversion and any foreign transaction fees are applied.
Among custom dental-grade night guards available to Canadians, NewSmile's night guard starting at $129 CAD is one of the lowest-priced CAD-denominated options. US brands like Sentinel start at $140.25 USD (approximately $192 CAD after exchange).
Sentinel's lab is FDA registered, and they use FDA-compliant dental-grade materials — BPA-free, BPS-free, MMA-free, and latex-free. Their guards are hand-finished by dental technicians in the US.
Cross-border shipping from the US to Canada typically takes 7–14 business days. This is in addition to the time required to return your impressions and have your guard fabricated. Compare to Canadian-based providers where domestic shipping is faster and no customs delays apply.
For moderate-to-severe bruxism, most dental professionals recommend a hard or dual-laminate guard. Soft-only guards can sometimes increase muscle activity in heavy grinders, as the jaw responds to the compressible surface by clenching harder. A hybrid guard (soft interior, hard exterior) or a fully hard guard is generally preferred for protection and longevity.
Many employer dental plans in Canada cover custom night guards partially — typically 50–80% under major restorative or prosthodontic services. Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) generally accept night guards prescribed for bruxism. The Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover night guards as of 2026. Check your plan's specific coverage before purchasing.
Sentinel Mouthguards make a well-built product with genuine strengths — the hand-finishing process, digital scan acceptance, and 100-night guarantee are all above average for the category. If you're in the US, they're a strong option.
For Canadians, the math is harder to ignore. You're paying $192–$274 CAD equivalent for guards that start at $129–$169 CAD from a Canadian provider. The cross-border shipping adds time, the USD conversion adds cost, and the return process becomes more complex from Canada.
If your priority is protecting your teeth from grinding at the best value for Canadians, NewSmile's custom night guard is the more straightforward choice — priced in CAD, shipped from Canada, and designed specifically for the Canadian market.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
Most Canadians who want straighter teeth face the same problem: they're told they have to wear aligners almost all day, every day, for 6 to 18 months. For adults with professional or social lives, that commitment is a real barrier.
Night aligners change the equation. Instead of wearing your aligners 20–22 hours a day, you wear them only while you sleep — typically 8 to 10 hours. The teeth still move. The process still works. You just do it while you're unconscious.
This guide explains exactly how night aligners work in Canada, who they're right for, how they compare to full-time aligners and Invisalign, and what the real costs look like in CAD.
Night aligners are a type of clear aligners designed specifically for night-time wear. Rather than the standard 20–22 hours of daily wear required by conventional aligner therapy, night aligners are engineered to apply orthodontic pressure during an extended overnight wear period — typically 8 to 10 hours.
The core mechanics are the same as any clear aligner system: a series of custom-moulded trays that gradually shift teeth into their target positions. The difference is in the aligner material thickness and the pace of movement. Night aligners use slightly thicker, more durable plastic to withstand the pressure applied during sleep (including the forces of clenching and grinding), and the treatment timeline is extended to account for fewer daily wear hours.
Night aligners are not a new concept, but they've become significantly more accessible in Canada since at-home aligner companies began offering them without requiring in-person orthodontist visits.
The process for getting night aligners in Canada through a direct-to-consumer provider like NewSmile typically follows these steps:
The entire process — from kit to completed treatment — requires no in-office appointments in most cases. This is particularly valuable for Canadians in smaller cities, rural provinces, or anyone with limited access to orthodontic clinics.
Understanding the practical differences between night-only and full-time clear aligners helps you decide which approach suits your lifestyle and case complexity.
| Feature | Night Aligners | Full-Time Aligners | Invisalign (Canada) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily wear time | 8–10 hours (night only) | 20–22 hours/day | 20–22 hours/day |
| Treatment length | Typically longer (10–18 months) | 4–12 months | 12–24 months |
| Cost (CAD) | See current pricing | See current pricing | $4,000–$8,000+ CAD |
| Canadian availability | All provinces | All provinces | Where orthodontists are located |
| In-office visits required | No | No | Yes (ongoing) |
| Best for | Mild-to-moderate cases, busy adults | Mild-to-moderate cases | Mild-to-complex cases |
The most significant trade-off with night aligners is treatment time. Because the aligners are only working for roughly one-third of every 24-hour period, your teeth move more slowly. Patients who would complete treatment in 6 months on a full-time plan may take 12–15 months on a night-only plan. For many Canadians, that extended timeline is well worth the convenience.
Night aligners are an excellent fit for a specific profile of patient. They are not suitable for every case — and any reputable provider will screen your impressions or scans before approving you.
Night aligners work well for:
Night aligners are generally not suitable for:
If you're unsure whether your case qualifies, the home impression process will tell you. Dental professionals review every submission, and cases that exceed what night aligners can safely address are declined and redirected appropriately.
Treatment length depends on the complexity of your case and how consistently you wear your aligners each night. That said, general timelines hold reasonably well across most mild-to-moderate cases.
Typical night aligner treatment timelines:
Consistency matters significantly with night aligners. If you wear your trays only 5–6 hours some nights, or skip nights occasionally, your teeth will not progress at the expected rate. The 8–10 hour minimum is a genuine clinical requirement, not a loose guideline.
After active treatment, you'll wear retainers at night indefinitely to hold your results. Retainers are a standard part of any orthodontic outcome — night aligner treatment is no different in this respect.
Cost is one of the primary reasons Canadians explore night aligners in the first place. Traditional Invisalign treatment in Canada typically runs $4,000–$8,000+ CAD, depending on your provider, city, and case complexity. Most provincial dental plans offer little to no orthodontic coverage for adults.
At-home clear aligner programmes — including night aligner options — are priced significantly lower because they eliminate the overhead of in-office visits, chairside adjustments, and the clinic infrastructure that drives up Invisalign costs. You're paying for the clinical review, the custom aligner fabrication, and the materials — not the real estate and staffing of a dental practice.
For current NewSmile night aligner pricing in Canadian dollars, visit our pricing page for the most up-to-date CAD rates. Pricing can vary based on case complexity and treatment length.
Many Canadians also find that at-home aligner programmes offer flexible payment plans, making monthly payments comparable to — or less than — a single Invisalign appointment.
When you start a night aligner programme with NewSmile in Canada, here's what the process looks like:
The aligners are made from medical-grade, BPA-free plastic. Night aligner trays use a slightly thicker material than standard daytime trays to account for the extended continuous wear period and the additional forces of clenching during sleep.
This is the question most Canadians researching night aligners eventually ask. The honest answer: for mild-to-moderate cases, yes — the cost difference is substantial, and the clinical outcomes for qualifying cases are comparable.
Invisalign in Canada is a premium product delivered through a clinical setting. You're paying for a brand, ongoing in-office monitoring, and a system originally built for complex cases that simpler at-home aligners cannot address. If your case genuinely requires that level of oversight — significant bite correction, complex crowding, extraction cases — then Invisalign or traditional braces are the appropriate choice and worth every dollar.
But the majority of adults seeking cosmetic teeth straightening in Canada have mild-to-moderate cases that don't require that level of complexity. For those patients, paying $4,000–$8,000+ CAD through an orthodontist when an at-home night aligner programme achieves the same outcome at a fraction of the cost is difficult to justify on purely clinical grounds.
A note on competitors: AlignerCo offers night-only aligner plans in Canada, but their customer support and processing operations are primarily based outside Canada. For Canadians who want responsive local support, Canadian-specific regulatory compliance, and a provider familiar with the Canadian dental landscape, domestic options matter.
Ready to Straighten Your Teeth at Night?
NewSmile offers night aligners shipped across Canada — no dentist visit needed. Take impressions from home and wear them only while you sleep.
Yes — for mild-to-moderate cases, night aligners are a clinically viable option. You wear the aligners for 8–10 hours during sleep, and your teeth move gradually over a treatment period that typically ranges from 6 to 18 months depending on your case complexity. A licensed dental professional reviews every case before treatment begins to confirm suitability.
The standard recommendation is 8 to 10 hours per night — essentially a full night's sleep. This wear time is a clinical minimum, not a suggestion. Wearing aligners for fewer hours on a regular basis will slow your progress and may compromise your results. Consistency across the full treatment period is essential.
For the cases they're designed to treat — mild-to-moderate crowding, spacing, and minor alignment issues — night aligners can achieve results comparable to full-time aligners. The trade-off is treatment time: night aligners typically take longer to complete because the active wear period is shorter each day. They are not a substitute for full-time aligners in complex cases requiring significant tooth movement or bite correction.
Invisalign in Canada typically costs between $4,000 and $8,000+ CAD through a dental office. At-home night aligner programmes are priced considerably lower because they remove the clinical overhead of in-office visits and ongoing appointments. Visit our pricing page for current NewSmile CAD rates. Many providers also offer monthly payment plans.
Yes. At-home night aligner programmes ship to all Canadian provinces and territories, including British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec. The home impression kit is delivered to your address, and your finished aligners are shipped back to you. No travel to a clinic is required at any point in the process.
Night aligners can address mild crowding and minor spacing issues effectively. Moderate crowding is often treatable depending on severity. Significant overbite correction, underbite, crossbite, or complex bite issues typically fall outside the scope of any at-home aligner programme — night or full-time — and would be better addressed through Invisalign with orthodontic monitoring or traditional braces. Your dental review at the start of the process will determine whether your specific case qualifies.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you finished orthodontic treatment — with aligners, braces, or a previous retainer — you already know the real work starts after. Wearing retainers consistently is what keeps teeth from shifting back. The question for Canadians in 2026 is which brand delivers the best value without cutting corners on fit or material quality.
Two brands come up repeatedly for Canadians shopping online for custom clear retainers: AlignerCo Canada and NewSmile Canada. Both are Canadian-based, both use at-home impression kits, and both ship custom-made retainers directly to your door. But they are not identical — and the differences are worth understanding before you order.
AlignerCo launched as a clear aligner company and has since expanded into custom retainers and night guards. Their Canadian operation is headquartered in Stoney Creek, Ontario, with a dedicated Canadian website at alignerco.ca. They hold Health Canada approval for their products, offer a toll-free Canadian phone line, and ship free to all Canadian provinces.
Their retainer product is aimed at people who want a straightforward replacement retainer at a lower price point. You take impressions at home using the included kit, mail them back, and receive your custom retainer in the mail. The process is the same one used by most DTC dental brands operating in Canada.
AlignerCo's Trustpilot profile has over 5,400 reviews and carries a 4.5-star rating. On their dedicated retainer product page on alignerco.ca, they show 34 reviews with a 5.0-star average — a much smaller sample than their overall platform rating.
As of June 2026, AlignerCo Canada's retainer package is priced at $175 CAD (on sale from $210 CAD) for one set. The package includes:
If you order two or more sets, AlignerCo offers a multi-set discount of $35 off, which makes stocking backup retainers more affordable. The 8-set bundle is flagged as their "Popular" option on the product page.
One thing worth noting: the impression kit is included in the base price, which means there is no separate kit fee to worry about. Everything arrives in one package.
NewSmile Canada offers two retainer options for new customers. The standard Custom Clear Retainers are priced at $199 CAD (sale from $229 CAD) and explicitly include both an upper and lower set — making it a clear pair of retainers at that price point. They also offer an Extra Thick Clear Retainers option at $219 CAD (sale from $259 CAD) for patients who grind their teeth or want extra durability.
NewSmile is Canadian-owned and operated, headquartered in Vancouver, BC, and ships free Canada-wide. Their retainer product has accumulated over 1,953 reviews on their product page with a 4.6-star rating — a substantially larger sample than most competitors in the Canadian market. Both retainer options include the at-home impression kit and come with a satisfaction guarantee.
NewSmile also carries a range of compatible care products: the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner ($79 CAD on sale) and Petal Cleaning Pods ($29 CAD) are designed specifically for Essix-style retainers and are available directly on newsmilelife.ca, making it easy to maintain your retainer without a separate order from another brand.
| Category | AlignerCo Canada | NewSmile Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Price (1 set) | $175 CAD (sale) | $199 CAD (sale) |
| Upper & Lower? | 1 set (confirm at checkout) | Yes — explicitly upper & lower |
| Impression kit included | Yes | Yes |
| Canadian HQ | Stoney Creek, ON | Vancouver, BC |
| Health Canada approved | Yes | Yes |
| Retainer reviews | 34 (5.0 stars) | 1,953+ (4.6 stars) |
| Thick option available | Not listed | Yes ($219 CAD) |
| Retainer care products | Not available on site | Petal Cleaner + Pods available |
| Free shipping | Yes, Canada-wide | Yes, Canada-wide |
The $24 CAD price difference between AlignerCo and NewSmile is not the deciding factor here. What matters more is:
Review depth: With 1,953 retainer-specific reviews versus 34, NewSmile has a much larger track record on their retainer product. Dental appliances require precise fit — and volume of customer experience across different tooth shapes is meaningful for that.
Clarity on what you get: NewSmile explicitly states their retainer includes upper and lower arches. AlignerCo's listing refers to "1 Set" — always confirm at checkout that you are receiving both arches before purchasing, since some providers sell upper and lower separately.
Durability options: If you clench or grind, NewSmile's Extra Thick option at $219 CAD is a genuine advantage. A standard-gauge retainer may not hold up as long under bruxism pressure.
Support ecosystem: NewSmile sells compatible cleaning products directly through the same store. A Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner with Petal Cleaning Pods is the recommended cleaning method for Essix-style retainers — no separate brand needed.
AlignerCo Canada is a legitimate option if you want to stock multiple backup sets at lower cost per set using their bundle pricing. Their Ontario base and Health Canada compliance are genuine advantages over US-only brands. But for a primary retainer order — especially if this is your first replacement since completing treatment — NewSmile's larger review base and clearer product packaging make it the stronger choice for most Canadians.
Need a custom clear retainer in Canada? NewSmile ships from Vancouver.
Both upper and lower retainers included, made from BPA-free dental-grade thermoplastic, with an at-home impression kit. We ship as soon as production is complete.
Whether you go with AlignerCo or NewSmile, cleaning matters. A dirty retainer harbours bacteria, smells, and calculus buildup that can damage both the retainer and your gum tissue over time. Here is what actually works:
Yes. AlignerCo Canada ships free to all provinces and territories. Their Canadian toll-free line is (365) 398-5838, available 9 am–6 pm EST Monday to Friday.
AlignerCo does not publish a specific production timeline publicly. Once impressions are received and approved, production and delivery timeframes can vary. Contact their support team for current estimates before ordering.
Yes. AlignerCo Canada operates under Health Canada regulatory compliance for their dental appliances. They are a Canadian-registered business based in Stoney Creek, Ontario.
Yes. A custom clear retainer from a dental office in Canada typically costs between $135 and $400 CAD per arch. NewSmile's $199 CAD price for an upper and lower set together is substantially lower than most in-office quotes and includes the impression kit.
Yes. Custom at-home retainers from both AlignerCo and NewSmile are replacement Essix-style retainers designed to maintain your current tooth position. You take new impressions from your current tooth shape — the retainer fits where your teeth are now, not where they were during treatment.
Most dentists recommend replacing clear (Essix) retainers every 6 to 24 months depending on wear frequency and care. Daily wear typically means replacement every 12–18 months. Nighttime-only wear can extend that to two years or more with proper cleaning.
References:
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you grind your teeth at night, you already know the stakes: damaged enamel, jaw pain, and morning headaches that make the day harder before it starts. You’ve probably searched “custom night guard Canada” and hit a wall of US brands that technically ship here — but charge in USD and leave you doing exchange rate math at 11pm.
Chomper Labs is one of those brands. They make custom dental night guards using home impression kits, and they’re popular enough in the US that Canadians notice them. But does the value hold up once you account for currency, shipping, and potential customs? This review covers exactly that.
Chomper Labs is a US-based company that makes custom-fitted dental night guards from home impressions. You bite into putty trays, mail them to their US lab, and receive a guard fabricated to fit your exact teeth. They offer multiple thickness and material options — soft, dual laminate, and hard acrylic — designed for different grinding intensities.
The product is legitimate. Their lab is based in the United States, the guards are FDA-registered devices, and they’ve built a solid reputation among American customers for fit accuracy and durability. The question for Canadians is whether that value survives the border crossing.
Chomper Labs doesn’t have a Canadian storefront. All orders are placed in USD. Their night guards run approximately USD $110–$165 depending on the thickness and style selected.
Here’s what that looks like for a Canadian buyer:
That USD $110 base price can realistically become $175–$235 CAD by the time it arrives at your door — and Chomper Labs doesn’t surface a Canadian-specific total before checkout.
Skip the currency math. Order your custom night guard in CAD.
NewSmile’s custom night guard starts at $99 CAD — no exchange rate surprise, no customs guesswork. Made from a home impression kit delivered across Canada.
| Feature | Chomper Labs | NewSmile Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD $110–$165 (~$150–$225 CAD) | $99 CAD |
| Currency | USD only | CAD |
| Customs risk | Yes — US to Canada crossing | No |
| Impression method | Home impression kit | Home impression kit |
| Material options | Soft, dual laminate, hard acrylic | Custom to your bite |
| Canadian support | US-based team | Canada-focused team |
| Returns/remakes | Cross-border shipping required | Straightforward process |
Chomper Labs makes a quality product. Their dual-laminate option — a soft inner layer bonded to a hard outer shell — is widely regarded as one of the better designs for moderate-to-heavy grinders. It absorbs impact without the rigidity discomfort that pure hard acrylic can create in the first few weeks of wear.
For Canadians near the US border who can pick up orders in person and avoid customs, the material variety alone might make Chomper Labs worth considering. Their hard acrylic guard is close to what a Canadian dentist would prescribe for severe bruxism.
Canadians browsing Chomper Labs see USD prices with no upfront CAD conversion. You won’t know your true landed cost — including shipping and any customs — until you’re committed to the process. This makes comparison shopping frustrating.
Canada Border Services Agency can levy import duties, GST, and a CBSA handling fee on goods from the US. While dental devices sometimes clear without additional charges, it’s not guaranteed. Canadian customers have reported paying $15–$40 CAD in unexpected fees when their guard arrived.
If the fit is off, you’re shipping impression materials back to the US and waiting for a return crossing. That adds cost, time, and uncertainty to an already multi-week process.
Proper cleaning extends the life of your guard significantly. Skip the manual toothbrush — it scratches the acrylic and creates micro-grooves where bacteria accumulate. Use a Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner with Petal Cleaning Pods instead.
For most Canadians, NewSmile’s custom night guard is the cleaner choice: straightforward CAD pricing, no customs exposure, Canada-focused support. NewSmile at $99 CAD delivers without the surprises.
Yes, Chomper Labs ships to Canada. However, all orders are priced in USD and Canadians may face currency conversion charges, US-to-Canada shipping fees, and potential customs duties or GST upon delivery.
NewSmile offers custom night guards starting at $99 CAD with a home impression kit. Dentist-fabricated night guards in Canada typically cost $400–$900 CAD. US brands like Chomper Labs charge USD $110–$165, roughly $150–$225 CAD before customs fees.
Yes — a custom-fitted night guard is significantly more effective than a pharmacy boil-and-bite guard. It distributes bite force evenly, reduces jaw muscle strain, and lasts considerably longer.
Many Canadian dental benefit plans cover custom night guards under occlusal splint codes. Coverage varies by plan — check with your benefits coordinator.
For value and CAD pricing, NewSmile is a strong pick. See our full Best Night Guard Canada 2026 roundup for a complete comparison.
