Any dentists or dental health professionals out there?

I grind my teeth when I sleep. I've been doing it for years; it's not just a temporary response to a passing condition. I was advised to get a night guard. The problem is that it is very expensive to have them custom made. Even at the local university where the dentistry students make them it is over $300, which is out of my price range. One time a dental hygienist said that I could get one ready-to-wear from the store. I see these range from $20 to $100 dollars, which is more affordable. My questions are: (1) Will a ready-to-wear night guard function as well as a custom-made one? (2) Which brand, style, or both, of ready-to-wear night guard should I get.

We usually recommend the Dr's Nightguard which you can find at Walgreens, Wal-Mart, etc. No, these ready-to-wear nightguards are not going to be just like the custom made ones, that's why they're cheaper. They are bigger, bulkier and harder to get used to. But, if you can't afford a custom made one, then it's better than nothing.

i used to work for a dentist however i am not a dental professional but i may be able to help. i have a custom made night guard and have only worn this $750 piece of rubber once due to it being so uncomfortable ..... so what i suggest you do is try a very cheap one first see if it helps and if it does not then try one that is a bit more pricy personally i prefer to just grind my teeth

Look into getting a product called Doctors Niteguard. It may not fit as well as a custom made one but I'm told it is quite comfortable.
Its better than doing nothing. Full mouth restoration is $$$$.

I tried a Doctor's Niteguard and thought I was going to choke to death. If you get one, try to get one that's not too bulky.

Buy any over the counter night guard. It is just a piece of plastic that sits between your upper and lower teeth and prevents your teeth from touching at night.
OR visit any local dental college and have one made there (much less money and it would be a professional night guard). Check out ada.org for local dental colleges in your state.