Nightguards for teeth grinding in Larkfield, Kent
Grinding or clenching your teeth at night (a condition called bruxism) is more common than most people realise — and it causes far more damage than many assume. A custom-made nightguard is one of the most effective ways to protect your teeth and relieve the jaw pain and headaches that often come with it.
Protecting your smile overnight
what is a nightguard?
A nightguard (also called an occlusal splint) is a custom-made dental appliance, usually made from hard or semi-hard acrylic, that fits over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. It creates a physical barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding and preventing the tooth surfaces from wearing against each other.
The nightguard we provide at Larkfield Dental Aesthetics is made from impressions of your own teeth, so it fits precisely and comfortably — unlike over-the-counter alternatives that can feel bulky and loose.
Who needs one? →
Signs to watch for
who needs a nightguard?
You may need a nightguard if any of the following apply.
Grinding in your sleep
You've been told you grind your teeth in your sleep — often by a partner, or spotted by your dentist.
Morning jaw pain or headaches
You wake up with a sore jaw, facial tension, or headaches — particularly around the temples and forehead.
Sensitive teeth in the mornings
Your teeth feel sensitive or painful in the mornings, without an obvious daytime cause.
Worn or cracked teeth
Your dentist has noticed worn, flattened, or chipped tooth surfaces — or you have a history of cracked teeth without an obvious cause.
Jaw joint (TMJ) pain
Pain in the temporomandibular joint — clicking, aching, or difficulty opening your mouth wide.
Restorations wearing fast
You have fillings, crowns, or other restorations that are wearing faster than expected.
Bruxism is strongly linked to stress and anxiety. If you're going through a stressful period, it's worth asking your dentist whether your teeth show any signs of grinding.
How it works
how is a nightguard fitted?
Getting a custom nightguard involves two short appointments, usually 1–2 weeks apart.
Impressions & bite record
A short 20–30 minute appointment where your dentist takes precise impressions of your teeth and records your bite.
Custom-made in the lab
Your impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your nightguard is custom-made, usually within 1–2 weeks.
Fitting & adjustment
A 15–20 minute visit where your nightguard is fitted, checked for comfort and fit, and adjusted if needed.
Care instructions
You'll be shown exactly how to insert and remove your nightguard, and given full care instructions.
Most patients adapt to wearing a nightguard within a week or two. Some notice an improvement in morning jaw pain and headaches almost immediately.
Aftercare
caring for your nightguard
A well-maintained nightguard should last several years. Here's how to look after it:
- ✓ Rinse it under cold water before and after wearing.
- ✓ Clean it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a specialist nightguard cleaner — not toothpaste, which is abrasive.
- ✓ Store it in the case provided when not in use, away from heat.
- ✓ Bring it to your dental check-ups so your dentist can check its condition and your bite.
- ✓ If it chips, cracks, or no longer fits comfortably, contact us — a poorly fitting nightguard can affect your bite.
Fees & finance
How much does a nightguard cost?
A custom nightguard at Larkfield Dental Aesthetics is a private treatment. The cost reflects the laboratory work and two appointments involved in fitting it. Please see our Fees & Finance page or call us on 01732 521123 for current pricing.
It's worth noting that the cost of a nightguard is usually far less than the cost of repairing the damage that untreated grinding causes — including cracked teeth, failed fillings, and worn enamel that may eventually need crowns.
General dentistry
Related treatments
Questions
frequently asked
Will a nightguard stop me grinding? +
A nightguard won't stop the grinding itself — it protects your teeth from the damage it causes. Addressing the underlying causes (stress, sleep quality, bite issues) is a separate matter. In some cases, physiotherapy, stress management, or Botox in the jaw muscles can reduce the grinding reflex — ask us if you'd like to explore these options.
Is a nightguard the same as a sports mouthguard? +
No. A sports mouthguard is designed to absorb impact during contact sports. A nightguard is designed to redistribute the force of grinding and separate the tooth surfaces. They are made differently and serve different purposes. We provide both — see our Children's Dentistry section for sports guards, or contact us to discuss adult sports guards.
Can I buy a nightguard from a chemist instead? +
Over-the-counter 'boil and bite' nightguards are available, but they are considerably less effective than a custom-made appliance. They can also be bulky, uncomfortable, and poorly fitting — which makes patients less likely to wear them. For consistent protection, a custom-fitted nightguard is far superior.
How long does a nightguard last? +
A well-maintained custom nightguard typically lasts 3–5 years, though heavy grinders may wear through them faster. Your dentist will check the condition of your nightguard at your regular check-ups.
Ready to book?
we'd love to help
Call us on 01732 521123 or email hello@larkfielddentalcare.co.uk — we'd love to help.