Sports Mouthguards
A well-fitting mouthguard is a simple layer of protection for active children and teens. It can help cushion teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw during sports and recreational activity.
Explore Sports MouthguardsPreventive Care · Kids First
Night guards for kids and teens in Zanesville, Ohio.
Some children and teens clench or grind their teeth, especially during sleep. A night guard may be one part of a plan to protect teeth and support a more comfortable jaw.
A clear plan, at your child’s pace
What parents in Zanesville should know.
Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can show up as worn enamel, jaw discomfort, headaches, noisy grinding at night, or a parent noticing that teeth look flatter. Not every child who grinds needs a guard, so an examination matters.
If a night guard is recommended, it should fit a growing mouth and be reviewed over time. We will explain what we see and whether a guard is appropriate for your child.
How this care can help
When a night guard may help
- Protect teeth that show signs of wear
- Reduce direct tooth-on-tooth contact during sleep
- Support a comfortable plan for a child with clenching or grinding
- Provide a custom fit that can be monitored as teeth change
Before, during, and after
How we decide on a night guard
- 01
We examine teeth and bite
Dr. Malek looks for signs of wear, evaluates jaw and bite development, and listens to what you notice at home.
- 02
We discuss other factors
Sleep, stress, discomfort, and development can all matter when deciding on the right plan.
- 03
We review fit and follow-up
If a guard is appropriate, we explain care and when to bring it back for a fit check.
Home guidance
At-home observations help
Let us know if you hear grinding, notice morning jaw discomfort, see worn teeth, or notice headaches. Those details help guide the evaluation.
Related pediatric care
Helpful next reading for families.
Dental Cleanings
A gentle cleaning does more than polish a smile. It removes buildup, helps us spot changes early, and gives your child repeated proof that a dental visit can feel calm and manageable.
Explore Dental CleaningsFor night guards
Why Kids First?
Every recommendation starts with the whole child — their health, comfort, development, and family — not just the tooth in front of us.
Board-certified pediatric expertise
Dr. Robert Malek is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a voluntary credential earned through specialty residency and examination.
We treat the patient
We do not just fix teeth. We treat the patient — taking time to understand comfort, development, health history, and what will make the visit work for your family.
Here for southeast Ohio families
Our Zanesville office welcomes children and adolescents from Newark, Cambridge, Coshocton, Lancaster, New Lexington, and surrounding communities.
Helpful answers
Questions parents often ask
Is teeth grinding common in children?
Some children grind or clench their teeth, particularly during sleep. The cause and significance can vary, which is why an examination is useful.
Will my child outgrow grinding?
Some children do change as they grow, but signs of wear or discomfort should still be evaluated. We can explain what is happening in your child’s case.
Can a night guard be used while a child is growing?
A guard needs to be appropriate for a growing mouth and checked over time. Dr. Malek will advise whether it is suitable and when it should be reviewed.
Kids First Pediatric Dental Care
Ready when your family is.
Tell us what your child needs. We will listen, explain the next step clearly, and help you find an appointment time that works.