Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep. According to the NHS, the most common cause is stress or anxiety, but it can also be linked to snoring and sleep apnoea, certain medicines, smoking, heavy alcohol and caffeine. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust estimates around one in 10 people grind in their sleep.
Many people do not know they do it until someone hears them, or until their dentist spots the signs. These include worn, chipped or sensitive teeth, jaw pain, headaches, earache and disturbed sleep. If any of this sounds familiar, mention it at your next appointment. Cracked or badly worn teeth may need a dental crown, and a sudden crack needs an emergency appointment. Stress is a common driver, so it also helps to tell us how you have been sleeping.
A custom night guard costs £400 per arch on our fee list, as shown in our other services fees. That is the price for an upper or a lower guard. If you need both, the cost is per arch.
Prices at other practices vary widely, so when you compare quotes, ask what is included. Treatment over £250 can be spread over 12 months with 0% finance. Details are under dental finance.
Not everyone who grinds needs one. The NHS says treatment is not always needed. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust notes that sleep grinding is not necessarily harmful and treatment usually targets the problems it causes rather than the grinding itself. A guard is worth considering if your teeth are wearing down, you have jaw or muscle pain, or you wake up with headaches. We can check your teeth and discuss whether a guard would help during a dental examination.
Many people grind without knowing. These are the signs that most often prompt a visit:
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust notes that up to one in five people clench during the day as well, often without realising. The NHS links grinding with stress, caffeine, alcohol and smoking, so cutting down on caffeine and alcohol in the evening, giving up smoking and building in time to wind down before bed may all help. None is a guaranteed fix. If stress or anxiety is a big part of your life, your GP can talk you through support options.
Here is the honest picture. A night guard creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, so that grinding wears the guard rather than your enamel. For many people it also takes some strain off the jaw muscles.
What it does not do is stop you from grinding. Some people clench harder on a soft guard, and some chew straight through one, as Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust points out. A 2020 systematic review in the British Dental Journal, covering 37 trials, rated the certainty of the evidence for splints in bruxism and TMD as very low, and no trial had measured tooth wear. That does not mean guards are useless. Dentists commonly use them to help protect teeth, and many patients find them helpful. It does mean you should not expect a miracle, and that a review after a few months of use matters.
The main types are:
Your dentist will advise which type suits your teeth, your bite and how you grind.
Shop bought and boil in the mouth guards cost a lot less. The problem is fit. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust advises that a splint should be made by a dentist, as ill fitting splints can cause problems with your teeth or gums. A custom guard is made from an accurate record of your own teeth, so that it fits securely and comfortably. The NHS says a night guard can be made to fit over your upper or lower teeth. Which one you get depends on your bite, your comfort and what your dentist is trying to achieve, and we decide this with you at your assessment.
Guidance on temporomandibular disorders suggests judging a splint after around three months of regular night time use, so we plan reviews with that in mind. At a review, we ask how you have been sleeping, whether your jaw feels better, and whether the guard is comfortable. We check it for wear and fit, and adjust it if needed. If it is not helping, we talk through the alternatives, including whether the guard is the right approach for you at all.
The first few nights can feel odd. You may notice extra saliva, a dry mouth or slight soreness, which usually pass within a week or two. If the guard feels uncomfortable or your bite seems different in the morning, let us know. A small adjustment often solves it. Wear it every night for the best results.
Guards do not last forever. How long yours lasts depends on the material and how hard you grind. They can crack, wear thin or lose their fit if your teeth change, for example after a new filling or crown. If that happens, bring it in, and we can look at whether a repair will do or whether a new guard is the better choice.
Some situations need a different approach or extra checks. If you snore loudly, stop breathing at night or feel exhausted during the day, see your GP or dentist, as grinding can be linked to sleep apnoea. A guard may also need to be considered carefully if you have loose teeth, active gum disease or partial dentures. And if the real driver is stress, a guard protects your teeth, but dealing with the stress is what may help in the long term. The NHS suggests speaking to your GP about stress and lifestyle causes.
It is not unusual for children to grind their teeth. The NHS suggests seeing a dentist if the grinding continues or if it is causing problems. We would not make a standard adult guard for a growing child without careful thought, so please talk to us about your child's particular case.
You will be examined by a dentist, and the guard will be made specifically for your teeth. Our Maida Vale dental practice is on Sutherland Avenue, two minutes from Maida Vale tube, and open until 8pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If jaw pain is the main issue, tell us and we can look at the whole picture together.
Does a night guard stop teeth grinding?
No. It protects your teeth and may ease strain on your jaw muscles, but it does not stop you from grinding. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust says treatment generally aims to manage the problems grinding causes.
How long does a night guard last?
It varies with the type of guard and how heavily you grind. We check yours at your reviews, and replace it when it is worn, cracked or no longer fits well.
Are shop bought night guards as good as custom ones?
They are cheaper, but fit is the issue. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust advises splints should be made by a dentist, because poorly fitting ones can cause problems with your teeth or gums.
Should I wear an upper or lower night guard?
Either can be made, and your dentist will recommend one based on your bite and comfort. The NHS says guards can be made for the upper or lower teeth.
How much is a night guard at Maida Smiles?
It is £400 per arch, as shown on our fee list. We will confirm what is included at your appointment.
Will a night guard help with jaw pain?
It may help muscle related jaw pain, according to Royal College of Surgeons guidance, but it is not a guaranteed fix. We would review it after around three months of use.
Is a night guard the same as a sports mouth guard?
No. Sports mouth guards are designed for impact. A night guard is designed to sit comfortably through the night and protect against grinding.
Waking up with a sore jaw or worn teeth? Book a night guard assessment at Maida Smiles, 207 to 209 Sutherland Avenue, London W9 1RU, or call 020 4652 8025.
4.8
I could not be more satisfied with my experience at Maida Smiles - A special mention to Dr Gurteurez who is one of the most friendly and professional dentists I have ever met
Adam
I had my first visit and the team was very warm, caring and professional. The online booking platform makes it very easy to arrange your appointment. Doctor Pedro made me feel comfortable despite this being my first appointment since Covid. He is incredibly knowledgeable and offers you the best treatment for your specific condition. I would highly recommend them
Gian Paolo Ziletti
Professional. Friendly. Informative. Maida Smiles offers great dental services including cleanings, oral surgery and realignment. I feel very lucky to have them so close by. I had an appointment just this week that was quick, thorough and safe.
Emily Chmura
Being very nervous about using dentists after a terrible experience when I was younger, I came to Maida Smiles and loved the calm patient demeanour of Pedro. You can clearly see Pedro and the team take pride in what they do and are perfectionists. The whole experience was great and I will never go to another dentist again.
Reena Nathwani
Delighted with the outcome of my treatment by Pedro. Meticulous attention to detail explaining exactly how the procedure would be carried out from first consultation to completion backed up with supporting guidance notes. Clearly an expert in his field and someone who cares passionately about the outcomes for his patients. Highly recommended.
George Jones
I loved my first visit to Maida Smile Dental Clinic. The staff member at reception was very warm, welcoming and professional. My dentist, Priscilla, and her assistant were fantastic. I have quite sensitive teeth near my gums and I can find the probing and investigation quite uncomfortable during a consultation, but this wasn’t the case at all. I didn’t experience discomfort and felt in very safe hands. This also applied to the hygienist work. I didn’t even have to ask Priscilla to avoid using the ultra sound cleaner on the sensitive areas of my teeth. I’m looking forward to going back, and that’s not often you can say that about going to the dentist!
Simone Gibson
Since I first had the luck to be recommended and book an appointment with Dr. Pedro Gutierres over 8 years ago, I have never trusted my dental health nor my family’s to anyone else. It’s very hard to find a dentist who ticks all the boxes and even goes beyond any expectations you may have, from service, sympathy, professionalism, and expertise, etc., 5 stars are not enough to rate him. I was so happy when he opened his own clinic and surrounded himself with the best professionals you can find, I cannot recommend Maida Smiles Dental Clinic enough.
Sofia Gouveia
Maida Smiles Dental Clinic is excellent!! The staff is very friendly, professional and always aiming for the customers best experience! A special thank you to Dr. Pedro Gutierres who is truly amazing. I am absolutely satisfied with the results and highly recommend this great dental clinic!
Ana Cruz
Dr. Pedro Gutierres is the best Implantologist I have come across. His work is amazing and of very high quality! I would highly recommend him and Maida Smiles to all my friends and family. If you want the perfect smile this is the place to go.
Blossom
“Pedro was so patient and professional throughout my treatment for my implants.. I chose to have my treatment with a local anaesthetic rather than any sedation and have a very bad gag reflex when anything touches the back of my throat. His patience throughout the experience was wonderful, completely putting me at ease and he also gave me a technique to help me in the future. I have seen him for my follow up and fully intend to book an annual visit in 2020. which is no small thing as I live 60 miles away.I can thoroughly recommend him for any treatment.”
Denise Gilbert
I was very nervous to pull my ingrown wisdom tooth. Dr Pedro Guiterres made me feel really comfortable and the job was completed very professionally. It didn’t take long at all and I didn’t feel any pain. I would definitely recommend his service at this practice.
Jihan Daoud
From the day I made my first appointment. The team at Maida smile were amazing. They didn’t treat me like a customer but more like family. They have been great in every step in FINALLY GETTING MY DREAM SMILE from the receptionist to my dentist Pedro Laranjeira I can’t thank you enough and of course Pedro Laranjeira beautiful wife…… they are very professional and understand that I had to change my appointment now and then for work commitments and they were very understand. I will defo recommend them 100% not forgetting how chic the office is
Tracy Mensah
I was very nervous about having a dental implant but was immediately put at ease by Dr Pedro Gutierres. The procedure was explained in full and the care both during and after treatment has been of the highest standard. I received advice on how to look after my implant and have had no problems. I highly recommend.
Dawn Briggs
I had 7 implants installed by Dr Pedro Gutierres, including one which required a bone graft. In my 70 years I’ve had some bad experiences with dental treatment so it takes a lot for me to relax but, from my initial consultation, through to the end of the treatment, I had complete trust in Pedro’s expertise: preparations for the treatment and after-care were extremely thorough and fully explained, the treatment itself was surprisingly endurable (considering what was involved) and the implants have made a major difference to my life. If you are considering implants then I would whole-heartedly and sincerely recommend Pedro for this work.
Russ Hickman
I couldn’t recommend Maida Smiles enough: the care, attention to detail and the way Dentists and Nurses made sure I felt comfortable and safe throughout the treatments was incredible. Dr Pedro explained the treatments in detail to me and I have never felt under pressure to proceed… but I am very glad I did as I am happy and confident to smile again!
Mariana Pinheiro
Highly recommend this place to anybody looking for a friendly and trustworthy practice with an incredibly friendly and patient staff. Dr Pedro has been one of the best dentists I’ve ever had, he made me feel comfortable and were very knowledgeable in explaining every step of what he was doing and answering all of my questions. Amazing thorough the procedure, excellent communication, superb and professional treatment. I hope they keep it this way for a long time.
Joas Souza
Dr Pedro is a very good, confident and experienced professional. I’ve known him for some years now and always felt well cared for, either for small or bigger treatments.The facilities of the clinic are amazing and all the staff are very friendly. Highly recommended.”
Nelson Cafruni
I went to different clinics before, and nobody could really convince me until Maida Smiles did. The team here makes you comfortable , shows you different options and different budgets , and doesn't try to make you go only for one plan. I felt that the team was knowledgeable and wanted to help me , so that's why I decided to start
Diogo
I was referred to Dr. Pedro who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional, they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. I've never looked back since
Theresa
"I told him, 'I want beautiful teeth, beautiful but natural, I don't want fake looking teeth.' Now I smile, I talk... it just makes you more confident. If you wear a beautiful nice suit... you have beautiful teeth, then it's like a perfect."
Louca
"I went to my hygienist a little while ago, and she said to me they were the best implants that she'd ever seen and she would never have known that they weren't my real teeth."
Sharon
Dr. Pedro explained the process of Invisalign to me. It sounded easy, it was quite a quick process, and the end result is my teeth moved back, so I'm quite happy.
Soula
I feel like I've not just developed a professional relationship with my dentist and the staff... they become more like friends as well, because of the kind of compassion and sympathy that they give you during treatment.
Alvin
"After a friend recommended the clinic, I was referred to Dr. Pedro, who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional; they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. They have more than met my expectations. I have to have a few more implants, and I'm not afraid anymore. Now, finally, I can live again."
Lesley
"After not having a great experience with previous dental treatments, I was desperate for someone that I trusted. I broke a tooth, and even before I saw Dr. Pedro, he reassured me that I was going to be fine. He made me feel very comfortable and at ease. It was an amazing experience, from not only Dr. Pedro but also all the staff in the clinic, and I would definitely recommend [them] ".
Mariana
I chose Maida Smiles because of the reviews and a friend who was really happy with the results. The results definitely met my expectations. My expressions are much more smooth than before and it really makes the difference
Carolina
I’m very grateful for the quick and efficient service I received when I needed an emergency appointment. The staff were kind and accommodating, and the dentist provided clear, helpful advice that made a real difference. The whole experience was reassuring. Highly recommend their professionalism and expertise!
Safiya Guled
I am always anxious when having to see the dentist and this was one of my first experiences with Maida Smiles. The dentist, Benedict Harrison was very reassuring and immediately put me at ease. He was quite lucid in his explanations of what had to be done, etcetera, and is making good progress with the ongoing treatment. Also, the rest of the staff were friendly and just plain nice.
John Jacobs
Wow wow Dr Claudia is the best dentist in London, my kid adores her and it is always a pleasant visit. Can’t recommend her enough
Bel Cohn
I am delighted with the results of my replacement veneers.
Dr Benedict Harrison was very good at talking me through the whole process and keeping me informed during the treatment if there were any issues - which there weren’t.
He has a charming demeanour which is an added advantage in a dentist, who I think we all agree are not our favourite people, overall a 5 star experience.
Karen Shepherd
I went to the Maida Smiles Clinic for the first time and had the most wonderful experience! I am dentist phobic but strangely left the place with a big smile on my face (literally!). The receptionist was super kind, Susan was impeccable and very helpful, and I had my appointment with the most amazing dentist Dr Mafalda Vilhena. Couldn’t recommend her enough. She explains the whole procedure and is very rigorous in her work. Congratulations to Dr Pedro Gutierres for creating such an excellent working environment and to all the team. I will be back and bringing my family along and we don’t even live in Maida Vale. Thank you for such an impeccable job on my teeth and for taking my fear of dentists away. Note: they don’t cover NHS, only private bookings or with insurance.
Maria Monteiro
