Pediatric Night Guards in Naples
Many children grind or clench their teeth while they sleep, often without realizing it. At Morning Star Children's Dentistry in Naples, FL , Dr. Rose Gedeon offers custom pediatric night guards that cushion the teeth, protect enamel from wear, and help relieve jaw discomfort so your child can sleep more comfortably.
Request an AppointmentUnderstanding Teeth Grinding in Children
Nighttime teeth grinding, known as bruxism, is common in childhood. In younger children, it is often linked to growing jaws, erupting teeth, or a misaligned bite, and many outgrow it. In older kids and teens, stress, anxiety, sleep-disordered breathing, or orthodontic changes can play a role. While occasional grinding may be harmless, persistent grinding can cause lasting damage to the teeth and jaw.
Signs Your Child May Be Grinding
- Grinding or clicking sounds during sleep
- Complaints of jaw soreness, earaches, or headaches in the morning
- Flattened, chipped, or worn tooth surfaces
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Restless sleep or daytime tiredness
If you notice any of these signs, let us know. We will examine your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw to determine the cause and whether a night guard is appropriate.
How a Custom Night Guard Helps
A night guard is a thin, comfortable appliance worn over the teeth during sleep. It acts as a protective cushion between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding and clenching. Custom night guards can:
- Prevent enamel wear, chips, and cracks
- Reduce jaw tension and muscle soreness
- Minimize morning headaches
- Protect crowns and fillings
- Support more restful sleep
The Fitting Process
We take a quick impression of your child’s teeth to create a night guard tailored to their unique bite. At the fitting visit, we check comfort and fit and teach your child how to wear and clean it. Because children are still growing, we monitor the guard at each checkup and replace it when needed. Night guards are different from sports mouth guards, which are designed to protect against impact during activity.
Supporting Your Child at Home
A calming bedtime routine, limiting screens before bed, and reducing caffeine and sugary drinks in the evening can help. If snoring or mouth breathing accompany grinding, we may recommend discussing sleep concerns with your pediatrician.
Call Morning Star Children's Dentistry at (239) 920-7827 to schedule your child’s appointment and learn how a custom night guard can protect their smile and support their overall well-being.
Pediatric Night Guard FAQs
Is it normal for children to grind their teeth?
Yes. Teeth grinding is common in children, and many outgrow it. Persistent grinding, however, can damage teeth and should be evaluated.
How do I know if my child grinds their teeth at night?
You may hear grinding sounds during sleep, or your child may complain of jaw pain or headaches in the morning. We can also see signs of wear during exams.
At what age can a child wear a night guard?
Night guards are most often recommended once permanent teeth are coming in, but we evaluate each child individually based on their needs and development.
Are night guards comfortable for kids?
Custom night guards are thin and shaped to your child’s teeth, so most children adjust within a few nights.
How is a night guard different from a sports mouth guard?
Night guards protect against grinding and clenching during sleep, while sports mouth guards are thicker and designed to absorb impact during activity.
How should my child care for a night guard?
Rinse and brush it each morning, let it air dry, store it in its case, and bring it to checkups so we can inspect it.
Will my child need a new night guard as they grow?
Yes. As teeth erupt and the jaw grows, the guard may need to be adjusted or replaced to maintain a proper fit.