Guard That Smile: Nightguards & Sports Guards for Kids & Athletes

At Rancho Bernardo Family Dental Care, we believe that a healthy smile should last a lifetime. However, certain habits and activities can put teeth at risk. Whether your child grinds their teeth while sleeping or plays high-impact sports, a custom nightguard or sports guard can make all the difference in protecting their dental health.


Nightguards: Protecting Teeth While They Sleep

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common issue among children and adolescents. Many kids are unaware that they grind their teeth at night, but the effects can be significant. Constant grinding can wear down the enamel, cause increased tooth sensitivity, and lead to long-term jaw discomfort or misalignment.


Signs Your Child Might Need a Nightguard:

  • Frequent headaches, especially in the morning
  • Jaw pain or soreness upon waking
  • Chipped, cracked, or worn-down teeth
  • Increased tooth sensitivity
  • Complaints of facial tension or discomfort

A custom nightguard provides a comfortable, protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the risk of enamel erosion and jaw strain. Unlike over-the-counter options, professionally made nightguards are designed to fit securely, making them more effective and comfortable for long-term use.


Sports Guards: Essential Protection for Active Kids and Athletes

If your child participates in contact sports or recreational activities, a custom sports guard is essential. Accidents happen, whether on the soccer field, basketball court, or skate park. Without proper protection, an impact to the face can result in chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth.


Benefits of a Custom Sports Guard:

  • Superior Fit: Unlike generic store-bought mouthguards, custom sports guards are tailored to the unique shape of your child’s teeth for a secure and comfortable fit.
  • Enhanced Protection: Absorbs impact and reduces the risk of serious dental injuries, including fractured teeth, lip lacerations, and jaw trauma.
  • Unrestricted Breathing and Speech: Properly fitted sports guards allow athletes to breathe and communicate easily, ensuring they stay focused on the game.
  • Durability and Comfort: Made from high-quality materials, custom guards last longer and provide better protection than standard, boil-and-bite options.


The Importance of Early Protection

Many parents may not realize the long-term consequences of neglecting oral protection. Damaged teeth from grinding or sports injuries can lead to costly dental treatments, including fillings, crowns, or even orthodontic correction. Taking preventative measures with a custom nightguard or sports guard can save time, money, and discomfort in the future.


Schedule an Appointment Today

At Rancho Bernardo Family Dental Care, we are committed to helping children maintain healthy, strong smiles. Whether your child grinds their teeth at night or is an aspiring athlete, we offer custom-fitted nightguards and sports guards to ensure their teeth remain protected.


Contact Us Today:

  • Visit Us: 12405 Rancho Bernardo Rd, San Diego, CA 92128
  • Email: rbdentalcare@yahoo.com
  • Call: 858-385-1838

Prioritizing dental protection now can lead to a lifetime of strong and healthy smiles. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how nightguards and sports guards can benefit your child.

Dr. John Mobilia, DMD 

Dr John, with over 30 years of experience. I went to the University of San Diego (USD) and received a bachelor's in chemistry. I earned my DMD graduating in the top 10% of my class from Boston University. I then continued on to a residency program in advanced education in general dentistry (AEDG) earning a certificate of advanced Dentistry (CAGS). I joined the Navy a year after finishing my residency. My Advanced degrees placed me in positions of higher responsibility and Leadership. After my honorable discharge , I practiced in the private sector in Tierrasanta for 13 years. Primarily caring to Navy families and their children.


 I then opened my own practice 13 years ago in Rancho Bernardo acquiring the most modern equipment available, while retaining that small town sense of individual attention, that seems to be lost in the corporate dental offices.

Dr. Julia Ng, DDS

Dr Ng, received her bachelors of science in Biology. She then received her DDS from University of the Pacific, San Francisco with high honors and an emphasis on general dentistry. She enjoys traveling and doing volunteer work. Her goal is to give back to the community that has given so much. She hopes to not only inspire her patients to have a healthier smile but to also lead healthier lives. Her free time is spent hiking, scuba diving and yoga. 

Nancy Vuong, RDH

Earned two AS Degrees in science at Mesa College, then completed the hygiene program at San Joaquin Valley College. She works full time as a dental hygienist and enjoys reading, hiking, running and outdoor activities with her two sons.