If your child clenches their teeth at night or complains of jaw discomfort upon waking, they may be experiencing bruxism. It’s not uncommon in children and, although it can go unnoticed, it may lead to consequences if not addressed in time.
In this article, we’ll explain the role of the night guard (occlusal splint) in treating childhood bruxism, how it’s used, its benefits, and how to care for it.
What is bruxism and how is it treated?
Bruxism is an involuntary habit that involves clenching and/or grinding the teeth, usually during sleep. Although it’s often associated with adults, it’s also common in children—especially during growth phases or when they’re going through stressful situations.
Over time, this habit can cause:
- Wear of tooth enamel.
- Jaw or headache pain.
- Changes in the bite.
- Problems in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
How is it treated?
Treatment for childhood bruxism usually focuses on protecting the teeth and relieving symptoms. In many cases, the most effective solution is the use of a night guard (occlusal splint).
This appliance is custom-made and is typically fabricated from acrylic resin, a rigid, highly resistant plastic material that acts as a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth.
How do you use a night guard and what is it for?
The night guard for bruxism is generally placed on the upper teeth, although in some cases it can be worn on the lower arch. Its main function is to prevent direct contact between the teeth while the child sleeps.
Using the device is very straightforward:
- Put it in at night, just before going to bed.
- The child should wear the night guard throughout the night.
- In the morning, remove the appliance and store it in its case.
This small daily habit has a big impact on children’s oral health. In addition, a night guard for bruxism is non-invasive and fits well into a child’s bedtime routine—especially if you explain its purpose in a positive way and normalize its use.
However, it’s important to note that night guards are not routinely indicated in children, since they can interfere with the growth of the maxillary bones. The guard is therefore recommended only in very severe cases of bruxism in which even the integrity of the pulp tissue could be compromised.
What are the benefits of night guards for bruxism?
Wearing a night guard consistently can make a big difference. Here are some of the main benefits:
- Protects tooth enamel, preventing wear from friction.
- Reduces jaw pain or headaches caused by muscle tension.
- Improves sleep quality.
- Prevents tooth movement or bite problems.
- Decreases the risk of TMJ damage (temporomandibular joint).
Thanks to our extensive experience with little ones, at Moonz we design custom night guards for bruxism, taking into account each child’s age, mouth shape, and specific needs. This attention to detail not only improves the effectiveness of the treatment but also promotes greater comfort and adaptation from day one.
How do you care for a night guard?
For the guard to keep doing its job properly, it’s essential to have a good care routine. Proper care will extend its lifespan, prevent bacterial buildup, and keep it comfortable for your child.
Don’t worry—it’s not complicated; it just takes consistency. Here’s everything you need to know to care for a night guard:
- Always store it in its case: after use, make sure it’s clean and completely dry before storing. Use a ventilated case to prevent moisture.
- Avoid leaving it in the sun or hot places: heat can deform the material. Never place it near radiators, under direct sunlight, or wash it with hot water.
- Don’t handle it with hard objects: prevent your child from biting it, playing with it, or bending it, as this can alter its shape and effectiveness.
- Clean the night guard daily.
- Attend regular check-ups at the clinic: as your child grows, their mouth changes too. It’s important for a professional to check whether the guard still fits properly or needs an adjustment.
How do you clean the night guard?
Daily cleaning is key to keeping a bruxism night guard in good condition and preventing bacterial accumulation.
To clean it, follow these simple steps:
- Wash it every morning after use with a soft toothbrush and cold or lukewarm water (never hot, as it could deform it).
- When washing, use a small amount of neutral soap, but avoid toothpastes, as they are too abrasive for the guard’s material.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry it with paper or a clean towel before putting it back in its case.
- Once a week, you can perform a deeper clean with effervescent tablets specifically for guards or dental prostheses. These products are easy to find in supermarkets and pharmacies.
And an extra tip: bring the night guard to each dental visit. At Moonz dental clinics we offer this option to our patients so we can check that it remains in good condition and still fits correctly.
Although bruxism can sometimes seem mild or temporary, it shouldn’t be underestimated. Treating it early and appropriately can prevent bigger problems in the future. Night guards (occlusal splints) are a simple, effective, and comfortable tool that helps protect little ones’ smiles while they sleep.
At Moonz clinics, thanks to our extensive experience in pediatric dentistry, we know how to guide you through the entire process—from diagnosis to treatment planning and follow-up.
If you suspect your child may have bruxism, we encourage you to book a free first appointment with no obligation. Our team will be happy to assess the case with you and answer all your questions.
