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Protective Dentistry
Gum Shield & Night Guard London
Custom-fitted gum shields and night guards are precision-made protective appliances that safeguard your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding, clenching and sports impact. Unlike over-the-counter alternatives, our appliances are made from digital or physical impressions of your own teeth for a precise, comfortable fit that you will actually wear.
Night Guards (Bruxism Splints)
Bruxism — teeth grinding and clenching during sleep — affects a significant proportion of adults, often without their awareness. It causes progressive tooth wear, cracking, jaw pain, headaches and disturbed sleep. A custom night guard provides a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing force and preventing damage.Sports Gum Shields
A properly fitted sports gum shield dramatically reduces the risk of dental trauma, jaw fractures and concussion during contact and collision sports. Our custom shields are made from ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) in the thickness appropriate for your sport, providing protection without compromising breathing or communication.Signs You May Need a Night Guard
- Waking with jaw pain, headaches or facial tension
- A partner reports you grinding during sleep
- Flattened, worn or chipped teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Cracked or fractured teeth without obvious cause
- Tightness or clicking in the jaw joint (TMJ)
The Fitting Process
- Clinical assessment of wear patterns and bite
- Impressions or digital scan of your teeth
- Appliance fabricated by specialist dental laboratory
- Fitting appointment with adjustments as needed
- Review appointment to confirm fit and comfort
Why Custom Over Shop-Bought?
- Precise fit — no bulk or discomfort
- Will not dislodge during sleep or sport
- Clinically appropriate thickness for your level of bruxism
- Does not interfere with speech or breathing
- Durable — lasts years with proper care
Care & Longevity
Clean your appliance daily with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleanser. Store in the provided vented case when not in use. Night guards typically last 3–5 years depending on the severity of grinding. Sports shields should be replaced seasonally or when showing signs of wear.Starting from
£350
Pricing varies by appliance type and complexity. Confirmed at your assessment appointment.
FAQ
Common Questions
Do I need a night guard?
You may need a night guard if you wake with jaw pain, headaches or facial tension, if a partner reports you grinding during sleep, if your teeth appear flattened or chipped, if you have increased tooth sensitivity, cracked teeth without obvious cause, or tightness and clicking in the jaw joint.Why choose a custom night guard over a shop-bought one?
Custom night guards offer a precise fit with no bulk or discomfort, will not dislodge during sleep, are made to the clinically appropriate thickness for your level of bruxism, do not interfere with speech or breathing, and are far more durable — lasting years with proper care. Over-the-counter alternatives cannot match the protection or comfort of a custom appliance.How much does a custom night guard cost in London?
Custom night guards and sports gum shields at DentAkademi London start from £350. Pricing varies by appliance type and complexity, confirmed at your assessment appointment.How long do custom night guards last?
Night guards typically last 3–5 years depending on the severity of grinding. Sports shields should be replaced seasonally or when showing signs of wear. Clean your appliance daily with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleanser, and store in the provided vented case when not in use.What is bruxism?
Bruxism is the term for teeth grinding and clenching during sleep. It affects a significant proportion of adults, often without their awareness. It causes progressive tooth wear, cracking, jaw pain, headaches and disturbed sleep. A custom night guard provides a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing force and preventing damage.
Written by Dr Onat Ege Kutluturk
Cosmetic Dentist (GDC 315571). Specialist in aesthetic and restorative dentistry, including veneers, smile makeovers and crown work at DentAkademi London.
View full profile →Clinically reviewed · Last updated August 2026