Night guards for children how to choose reasons for wearing them and the best cleaning methods

Night Dental Guards for Kids have become one of the most important tools to protect your child’s teeth from issues like teeth grinding, enamel wear, and pain that can affect their sleep and quality of life. But it’s not just that — choosing the right type and following the proper cleaning methods play a big role in its effectiveness and your child’s safety.In this we will talk about the most important types of night dental guards for children, the reasons why they might need them, and also the best ways to care for and clean them properly.Stay with us to keep your child’s teeth healthy and provide them with comfort and peace of mind all night long!

Can Night Dental Guards Be Used with Braces?

There’s no problem using a night dental guard if your child has braces, but you should always consult the treating orthodontist to determine the right type for your child’s case. Some types are designed specifically to fit with braces so they don’t cause discomfort or affect the braces themselves.

Which Is Better: Over-the-Counter Night Guards or Custom-Made by a Dentist?

A custom-made night guard from the dentist is much better than the ready-made types you find in pharmacies. That’s because the dental guard is tailored exactly to your child’s teeth, and the layers are thinner, which makes it easier for your child to breathe during sleep and reduces any discomfort or tightness they might feel with an over-the-counter guard.

Is a Night Guard Uncomfortable?

Generally, the night guard isn’t uncomfortable because it’s precisely made to fit the teeth, and it usually has a top layer that keeps it firmly on the gums so it doesn’t move during sleep. Your child might feel some slight discomfort or unfamiliarity at first, but with time and getting used to it, it becomes natural and won’t cause any problems.

What Is a Night Dental Guard?

A night dental guard is a small, soft device worn during sleep to protect the teeth from grinding or excessive pressure that happens between teeth at night. Using it helps prevent many problems such as jaw pain, headaches, tooth damage, and neck or jaw inflammation caused by teeth grinding or clenching.

What Is the Name of the Night Dental Guard?

This device is known as a "Night Guard" or "Dental Night Guard," and it’s a simple but very important tool to protect your teeth while you sleep.

Are Night Mouth Guards Necessary?

Yes, night mouth guards are very necessary for people who suffer from teeth grinding during sleep (medically called bruxism) or want to protect their teeth from wear and damage caused by continuous pressure.

Can You Eat While Wearing a Night Dental Guard?

No, you cannot eat while wearing a night dental guard because it’s made to be used only during sleep, and eating with it on isn’t suitable and may damage the guard.

How to Use a Night Dental Guard for Children

Before your child puts on the night guard, make sure their teeth are completely clean. They should brush well with toothpaste and also floss between teeth to remove any food particles. Then, they place the guard correctly according to its type and shape.

Doctors usually recommend choosing a thinner or less bulky type because it’s easier to wear and less disturbing for the child during sleep. It’s also important that the child wears the guard when going to sleep or just before sleeping, not while awake or unprepared, so they feel comfortable and don’t get annoyed by it.

When Should You Replace the Night Dental Guard?

If you notice that your child’s night guard has cracks, breaks, tears, or any signs of damage, you should replace it immediately. A damaged guard won’t protect the teeth properly and may accumulate bacteria that cause mouth and gum infections.

How Long Can Children Use Night Mouth Guards?

The duration varies depending on many factors, but generally:

The expected lifespan of the guard is about 6 months to 1 year.
If the child uses it daily and regularly, it may wear out faster.
The material type matters, as some are more durable than others.
Once you notice any cracks or changes in shape, replace it immediately.
Also, as the child grows and their mouth size changes, they may need a new guard to fit their new teeth size.

Steps to Easily Fit a Night Dental Guard for Children

Visit the Dentist: The first important step is to take your child to the dentist to examine their teeth and determine if they need a night guard.
Taking Mouth Impressions: The dentist uses a special mold to take an exact shape of your child’s teeth. This is an easy process where a soft material is placed in a small tray, and the child bites on it briefly.
Manufacturing the Guard: After taking the impressions, the dentist sends them to a specialized lab to make the guard from safe and comfortable plastic.
Fitting the Guard: Once the guard is ready (usually within 2 days to a week), you return to the dentist to try it on your child and make sure it fits well—not too tight or loose.
Adjusting the Guard if Needed: If the guard isn’t perfect, the dentist adjusts it to make it very comfortable without causing any pain or discomfort.
Teaching Your Child How to Use It: The dentist or parents teach the child how to wear the guard before sleep and take it off upon waking in a simple and easy way.
Regular Follow-Up: It’s important to have periodic follow-ups with the dentist, for example, every 6 months, to check the guard’s condition and replace it if needed because of teeth growth or damage.

The Importance of Mouth Guards for Children: Protecting Your Child’s Teeth from Every Danger

Can children use mouth guards?
Absolutely yes! Mouth guards for children are very important because they protect their teeth from many problems, especially before symptoms or complications appear.

When Does Your Child Need a Mouth Guard?

If your child plays contact and physical sports like football or hockey, a mouth guard protects their teeth from hits and bruises.
If your child grinds their teeth during sleep (teeth grinding), which can cause tooth wear and jaw pain, a mouth guard reduces this problem.
If they recently had dental treatment, the guard protects the treated area while it’s still healing.
If they have crooked teeth or jaw problems, the mouth guard can prevent additional damage or pain.

How Does a Night Dental Guard Help Treat Teeth Grinding in Children?

A night dental guard reduces the friction between teeth during sleep, protecting teeth from damage. It also relieves pressure on the jaw, decreasing jaw pain and discomfort. Most importantly, the guard is custom-made to fit your child’s teeth precisely, ensuring comfort and ideal protection.

How to Choose a Mouthguard for Kids: Your Guide to Protecting Your Child’s Teeth

When it comes to choosing a mouthguard for your child, you’ll find several main types available. Each type has its pros and cons, which will help you decide the best option:

1. Ready-made Mouthguards

These are available at pharmacies or stores.

They come in one fixed size and are not custom-made for your child’s teeth.
They are affordable and easy to find, but don’t always provide enough protection or comfort.

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

This type is heated in hot water, then your child bites into it to shape it to their mouth.

Offers a better fit than ready-made ones but might not be very comfortable and may not last long.

3. Custom-made Mouthguards

These are designed by a dentist specifically for your child’s mouth.

Very comfortable and provide the highest protection, especially if your child plays contact sports or grinds their teeth at night.
More expensive but a worthwhile investment for oral health.

Why is Wearing a Mouthguard Necessary?

Some may think a mouthguard isn’t essential, especially if the child doesn’t play contact sports. But the truth is, not wearing one can cause serious problems:

In sports: Without a mouthguard, your child’s teeth are at risk of breaking, chipping, or falling out due to impacts and falls.
At night: Teeth grinding (bruxism) can wear down teeth and cause jaw pain and frequent headaches. Over time, this can lead to costly treatments like fillings or crowns.

Key Features of a Good Night Mouthguard for Kids: How to Choose the Right One

When selecting a night mouthguard for your child, you should look for these important qualities to ensure it protects their teeth and feels comfortable:

Comfortable to wear
It should be light and soft so the child doesn’t feel pain or fatigue while wearing it.
Proper fit for mouth and teeth size
The guard must be custom-made to fit your child’s teeth precisely, not too big or small, so it stays secure during sleep.
Made from safe, non-toxic materials
Preferably medical-grade materials that don’t cause allergies or irritation to gums or mouth.
Durable yet flexible
It should withstand biting and pressure without breaking, but still be flexible enough not to hurt the gums.
Easy to clean
The design should allow easy cleaning to prevent bacterial buildup and bad odors.
Allows normal breathing
It must not cover the airway or make breathing difficult during sleep.
Does not affect teeth or jaw growth
The design should avoid putting pressure on teeth or jaw to prevent developmental problems.
Manufactured according to dentist’s instructions
The best guards are custom-made after a dental exam, not generic guards sold in stores.
Lightweight
So it doesn’t cause discomfort or pressure during sleep.
Resistant to wear and tear
Made from materials that withstand daily use without damage or cracks.
Maintains jaw stability
Helps keep the jaw in a comfortable, stable position and prevents abnormal movement during sleep.
Supports correction of teeth alignment
Some types help reduce pressure or grinding, protecting the mouth from complications.
Suitable for children with skin sensitivities
Materials should be hypoallergenic to avoid irritation of gums or skin.
Reduces noise from teeth grinding
Designed to minimize the sound caused by grinding during sleep.
Easily adjustable shape
Some guards allow home adjustments by heating to better fit the mouth size.
Prevents infection transmission
Made of bacteria-resistant materials and regular cleaning helps keep germs away and maintain oral health.

Types of Mouthguards for Kids: Your Easy Guide to Choosing the Best

When a child plays sports or faces the risk of mouth injury, they need a mouthguard to protect their teeth from hits or fractures. The right type of mouthguard keeps your child comfortable and properly protected. Here, we’ll talk about the most common types of mouthguards for kids, so you can easily choose the best one for your child.

1. Stock Mouthguard

Description: Comes ready-made in small, medium, and large sizes—not custom-fitted for the child’s mouth.

Advantages:

Very cheap.
Easy to find in any pharmacy or sports store.

Disadvantages:

Sometimes uncomfortable because it’s not custom-made.
May be loose or tight, not stable.
Can make breathing and talking difficult while wearing.

Use: Temporary solution if you need a mouthguard quickly.

2. Boil and Bite Mouthguard

Description: Hard plastic guard you soften in hot water, then your child bites down to shape it to their mouth.

Advantages:

Fits better than the stock mouthguard.
Medium price and widely available.
Easy to use at home.

Disadvantages:

Not always as precise as custom-made guards.
May need adjustments if uncomfortable.

Use: Suitable for sporty kids needing moderate protection.

3. Custom-Made Mouthguard

Description: The best type, made by a dentist after taking an accurate mold of the child’s mouth.

Advantages:

Very comfortable since it’s custom-fitted.
Stays secure and greatly reduces injury risk.
Helps the child breathe and talk easily during play.

Disadvantages:

More expensive than other types.
Takes a day or two to manufacture.

Use: For kids playing contact sports like boxing, hockey, or American football.

4. Night Guard

Description: Worn during sleep to treat teeth grinding (bruxism).

Advantages:

Protects teeth from damage caused by grinding at night.
Reduces jaw pain and headaches related to grinding.

Disadvantages:

Not designed for sports protection.
Requires regular follow-up with the dentist.

Use: For children who grind their teeth at night.

5. Thermoplastic Mouthguard

Description: Transparent mouthguard made from lightweight plastic, often custom-made.

Advantages:

Very light and comfortable.
Reduces the feeling of bulkiness in the mouth.
Easy to clean and doesn’t retain odors.

Use: For kids who prefer a light, soft mouthguard.

6. Layered Mouthguard

Description: Contains multiple layers—soft inner layer to absorb shocks, hard outer layer for protection.

Advantages:

Maximum protection for high-impact sports.

Disadvantages:

The most expensive type.
Usually only available from dentists.

Use: For athletes in contact sports needing strong protection.

7. Rubber Mouthguard

Description: Made from flexible rubber materials, suitable for young children.

Advantages:

Comfortable and flexible.
Reduces mouth injuries during play.

Disadvantages:

Not widely used.
May require regular safety checks.

Use: For young children still learning to care for their mouthguard.

8. Mouthguard for Children with Special Needs

Description: Custom-designed to meet specific needs, especially for kids with jaw issues or developmental disorders.

Advantages:

Very precise design that supports special cases.

Use: For children requiring specialized treatment or extra support.

Types of Mouthguards for Kids: Choose the Right One According to the Need

Type	Price	Comfort Level	Use	Advantages	Disadvantages
Stock	Cheap	Less Comfort	Temporary, light sports	Available and easy to buy	Uncomfortable, may not fit well
Boil & Bite	Medium	Medium	Moderate intensity sports	Partially molds to the mouth	Not 100% accurate, may need adjustments
Custom Made	Expensive	High	Contact sports and special cases	Very comfortable, excellent protection	High price, takes time to make
Night Guard	Medium	Medium	Treat teeth grinding during sleep	Protects against tooth wear and jaw pain	Not for sports protection
Thermoplastic	Medium-High	High	Comfortable and light use	Easy to clean, light and comfortable	Medium to high price
Layered	High	High	Very intense contact sports	Very strong protection	Expensive, can be hard to clean
Rubber	Medium	High	For young children	Flexible and comfortable	Not very common

Benefits of Night Guard for Kids (Simplified)

Protects Teeth from Grinding During Sleep
Some kids grind their teeth while sleeping (called bruxism). The night guard protects teeth from wearing down and damage caused by continuous grinding.
Reduces Jaw and Facial Pain
Teeth grinding puts pressure on jaw muscles, which can cause pain or headaches. The guard reduces this pressure and relaxes the jaw muscles.
Protects Teeth from Cracks and Breaks
Strong pressure can cause cracks or breaks in teeth. The guard distributes the pressure to protect them.
Improves Sleep Quality
Pain and pressure from grinding can disrupt the child’s sleep. The guard helps the child sleep more deeply and comfortably.
Protects Braces and Dental Work
If the child has braces or dental restorations, the guard protects them from damage or shifting caused by grinding.
Prevents Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Problems
The guard reduces pressure on the jaw joint and helps prevent pain and difficulty opening the mouth.
Reduces Gum Damage
Protects gums from friction and pressure caused by teeth movement during sleep, helping to keep them healthy.
Prevents Enamel Wear
The guard protects the enamel layer covering the teeth and reduces tooth sensitivity to cold and heat.
Reduces Risk of Losing Permanent Teeth
In severe cases, grinding can affect the growth of permanent teeth. Using a guard lowers this risk.
Supports Jaw and Muscle Health
The guard helps jaw muscles work healthily, supporting normal jaw growth.

Night Guard Side Effects for Kids: What You Should Know Before Use

Although night guards have many benefits, some side effects or problems may appear in children, especially if the guard is not suitable or used incorrectly. Here are the main possible issues:

Initial Discomfort
Many children feel that the guard is uncomfortable when they first wear it, especially if it’s their first time. This may make them refuse to sleep with it.
Temporary Difficulty Speaking or Breathing
At first, the child might have slight trouble talking or breathing if the guard is not fitted well or is a bit too big.
Mouth or Gum Irritation
If the guard is made from poor-quality material or not cleaned properly, it can cause inflammation, redness, or small scratches inside the mouth.
Allergic Reactions to Materials
Some children may be allergic to the material used in the guard, which can cause itching or mild swelling.
Impact on Teeth or Jaw Growth
If a child is still growing and uses the guard for a long time in an improper way, it might affect teeth movement or jaw development.
Bacterial Build-Up
If the guard is not cleaned regularly, bacteria and fungi can accumulate on it, causing infections or bad mouth odor.
Increased Saliva Production
Some children notice increased saliva while wearing the guard, which can be a bit annoying but usually decreases over time.
Problems with Bite Alignment (Occlusion)
If the guard does not fit well, it can change how the mouth and teeth close, leading to chewing problems or jaw pain.

Night Guard Side Effects for Kids: What You Should Know Before Use

Although night guards have many benefits, some side effects or issues may appear, especially if the guard isn’t well-fitted or used properly. Here are more possible side effects to be aware of:

Easy Breakage
Some kids bite hard on the guard or play with it, which can cause it to break quickly, especially if it’s not made from durable material.
Delaying Treatment of the Real Cause
Using a night guard alone without addressing the root causes of teeth grinding (such as stress or jaw problems) may allow the problem to persist or worsen.
Jaw Joint Problems (TMJ)
In rare cases, long-term or improper use may put pressure on the temporomandibular joint, causing pain or clicking sounds.
Difficulty Getting Used to It
Not all children accept wearing the guard easily, especially if it’s required every night. This may cause stress or refusal to wear it consistently.

How to Care for Your Child’s Night Guard: Simple Steps to Keep It Safe

Clean it daily
Wash the guard with lukewarm water (not hot) after each use.
Use a soft toothbrush with mild soap or non-whitening toothpaste.
Avoid hot water
Hot water can deform the guard and cause it to lose its fit, so always use cold or lukewarm water.
Dry it thoroughly
After washing, dry the guard with a clean towel or let it air dry away from direct sunlight.
Store it properly
Keep the guard in its special ventilated case to prevent moisture buildup and bacteria growth.
Do not share
The guard is for personal use only. Never let another child use it to avoid infections.
Keep it away from heat
Don’t leave the guard in sunlight or near any heat source to avoid warping or damage.
Check its condition regularly
Inspect the guard frequently for cracks or damage. Replace it immediately if damaged.
Visit the dentist regularly
Have your dentist check that the guard still fits well and that everything is okay.

Important Precautions After Getting a Night Guard for Your Child

If your child starts wearing a night guard, follow these important steps to keep them healthy and the guard in good condition:

Daily hygiene is essential
Clean the guard every day before and after use.
Use lukewarm water and mild soap or gentle toothpaste.
This prevents bacteria buildup and bad odors, protecting your child’s oral health.
Store it correctly
After cleaning, keep it in a dry, ventilated case.
Make sure the case isn’t completely closed and avoid heat exposure.
No sharing allowed
The guard is strictly for personal use.
Never allow another child to wear it, even once, to avoid spreading infections.
Avoid eating or drinking before wearing
It’s best if the child doesn’t eat or drink sugary items before putting the guard on.
This protects the guard from bacteria and reduces the risk of tooth decay.
Wear it every night as advised
If the dentist recommends nightly use, make sure your child wears it consistently.
Regular use protects teeth from grinding and wear during sleep.
Avoid hot water when cleaning
Never use hot water to clean the guard as it can change its shape and fit.
Always use lukewarm or cold water.
Regular dentist visits
If your child feels discomfort or the guard becomes uncomfortable, see the dentist.
The dentist can adjust or replace the guard if needed.
Monitor your child’s teeth growth
Children’s teeth change quickly.
The guard may need adjustments or replacement as the jaw shape changes.
Regular dental check-ups ensure the guard still fits properly.