Nightguards & Sports Guards for Children in Larkfield, Kent
Children's teeth deserve the same protection as adults' — whether that means guarding against the effects of teeth grinding at night or protecting against a knock during sport. At Larkfield Dental Aesthetics, we provide custom-made nightguards and sports mouthguards designed specifically for children's developing mouths.
Understanding the appliance
What are nightguards and sports guards?
A nightguard (also called an occlusal splint) is a custom-made appliance worn over the teeth during sleep. It creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding or clenching and preventing damage to tooth surfaces, fillings, and jaw joints.
A sports mouthguard is a protective appliance worn during contact or collision sports. It cushions impact to the teeth, jaw, and soft tissues — significantly reducing the risk of chipped or knocked-out teeth, cuts to the lips and cheeks, and jaw injuries.
Both are custom-made from impressions of your child's teeth. A professionally fitted guard is far more effective and comfortable than anything bought over the counter — it fits properly, stays in place, and provides reliable protection.
Does your child need one? →
Spotting the signs
Does my child need a nightguard?
Teeth grinding (bruxism) in children is more common than many parents realise — particularly in younger children and during periods of stress or change. Children often grow out of grinding as they get older, but while it's happening it can cause real damage.
Signs that your child may be grinding their teeth include:
- ! You can hear grinding sounds from your child's room at night
- ! Your child wakes up with jaw pain, headaches, or a sore face
- ! Their teeth look flattened or shorter than they used to
- ! They complain of tooth sensitivity
- ! Their dentist has noticed wear patterns on their tooth surfaces
If you notice any of these signs, mention them at your child's next check-up. We'll assess the extent of the wear and recommend whether a nightguard is appropriate.
Protecting active smiles
Does my child need a sports mouthguard?
A sports mouthguard is strongly recommended for any child who plays contact or collision sports — including rugby, football, hockey, martial arts, cricket, and cycling. Dental injuries in sport are extremely common and often entirely preventable.
A mouthguard significantly reduces the risk of:
- ✓ Chipped or fractured teeth
- ✓ Knocked-out teeth — particularly adult teeth, which do not grow back
- ✓ Cuts and lacerations to the lips, cheeks, and tongue
- ✓ Jaw fractures
- ✓ Injuries to the gum and supporting bone
Many sports clubs make mouthguards compulsory — particularly at junior level. A custom-fitted mouthguard is more comfortable, better fitting, and more protective than a boil-and-bite alternative from a sports shop.
What to expect
The fitting process, step by step
Getting a custom nightguard or sports guard involves two short appointments.
At the first appointment (20–30 minutes), we take precise impressions of your child's teeth. These are used to make the guard at a dental laboratory, accurately matched to your child's mouth.
At the second appointment (15–20 minutes, usually one to two weeks later), the guard is fitted, checked for comfort, and adjusted if needed. We also show your child how to put it in and take it out, and give you care instructions.
Children's mouths are still growing, so guards may need replacing as teeth change — we'll check the fit at each check-up and advise when a new one is needed.
Fees & finance
How much do nightguards and sports guards cost?
Custom-made guards are private treatments. The cost depends on the type of guard required. We'll confirm pricing at your appointment.
Please see our Fees & Finance page or call us on 01732 521123 for more information.
Children's dentistry
Related treatments
Questions
Frequently asked
Will my child grow out of teeth grinding? +
Many children do grow out of grinding as their adult teeth come through and their jaws develop. However, while it's happening, a nightguard protects against the damage it can cause. We'll monitor the situation at check-ups and advise whether continued use is needed as your child grows.
Won't a sports guard affect my child's breathing or performance? +
A well-fitted custom mouthguard sits comfortably over the teeth without affecting breathing or speech to any significant degree. Children adapt to wearing them very quickly. The peace of mind and protection they provide far outweighs any very brief adjustment period.
How do I clean my child's mouthguard? +
Rinse it under cold water after use. Clean it regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap — not toothpaste, which is abrasive. Store it in the case provided when not in use, away from heat. Bring it to check-up appointments so we can check its condition and fit.
My child's teeth are still changing — should I wait before getting a guard? +
Children's mouths do change as they grow, which means guards may need to be replaced periodically. However, this isn't a reason to delay protection — particularly for sports guards. We'll advise on timing based on your child's stage of dental development.
Ready to book?
Protect their smile, on and off the pitch
Call us on 01732 521123 or email hello@larkfielddentalcare.co.uk — we'd love to help.