An Occlusal Splint is a custom made removable dental appliance that you wear at night to protect your teeth and to help alleviate jaw pain. It is often made from durable acrylic materials that fit on the upper arch of your teeth. They serve as a protection from your upper and lower teeth from meeting and grinding (Bruxism) and clenching and it can also relieve the muscle and joint pain of the jaw. These custom made Occlusal Splints can often be made to relieve muscle tension in the face, jaw pains, TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) pains and headaches.
The Occlusal Splint can also sometimes be referred to as a Night Guard, Bite Guard, Teeth Grinding Splint, Dental Splint, TMJ night guard and so on.
If you have jaw pain, facial muscle tension, wear facets and cracks on your teeth or if you clench or grind your teeth you may benefit from wearing a custom occlusal splint. In this post, we will discuss the benefits, usage, costs and more. FAQs will also be included so keep on reading to find out everything you need to know about Occlusal Splints.
What are the common signs you might need an Occlusal Splint?
- Worn, cracked or sensitive teeth
- Fillings chipping
- Waking up with jaw pain or headaches
- Clenching
- Bruxism/Grinding your teeth at night (sometimes your partner can hear it)
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- TMJ pain
How Does an Occlusal Splint Work?
Occlusal Splints create a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, helping it prevent the damage from grinding of the teeth. It also helps reduce pressure on jaw joints and relaxes the overactive jaw muscles.
Occlusal Splints vs Mouth Guards: Are they the same? What’s the Difference?
Mouth guards and Occlusal splints are not the same. They both do a great job in protecting teeth but serve different purposes. Mouthguards are worn during contact sports to prevent injuries and are made from a softer, more flexible materials such as silicone, rubber or vinyl. These are often more bulky, soft and not intended to be worn overnight. Occlusal splints are professionally made from a much tougher, durable material and help to prevent problems with teeth and treat joint/muscle issues.
What to Expect When Getting an Occlusal Splint?
To start the process of making your custom fit Occlusal Splint, 2 short appointments are required.
In your first appointment, a mould or dental impression of your upper and lower teeth will be taken using a tray and impression material. Impressions of both arches are necessary so that the lab technician can see how your teeth meet.
The dental impressions will be sent to the laboratory to have your splint fabricated. This can take around 2 weeks.
In the second and final appointment, the splint is inserted and the overall fit and bite will be checked by Dr Indran. He will be able to address any areas that need adjusting and give you instructions on how to take care of your splint for best practices on how to extend the life of your new appliance.
The splint should have a tight and snug fit but should not cause you pain. When biting own, your teeth on either side should meet. As it is a foreign piece in the mouth, some people can find it uncomfortable at first, others say they can’t sleep without it. Although it may take some time getting used to it for some, if we think about the end goal of protecting your teeth, it all seems worth it!
Splints can last for years without the need of replacing it. There are instances when there is severe grinding/clenching, splints may crack or break and a new one may be required. It is always easier to replace the splint than to have to fix your teeth.
KEEP OCCLUSAL SPLINTS AWAY FROM DOGS
If you have a pet dog, be sure to keep it safe when stored. Dogs love to chew on them. We have unfortunately had a number of patients who have had their splints chewed up by their dogs!
If you’re still unsure and have more questions about Occlusal Splints, ask Dr Indran at your next appointment and he will happily answer all of your questions! Early discussions and intervention is encouraged!
Book online: www.boxhillnorthdental.com.au
Call 03 9898 1119 or email: info@boxhillnorthdental.com.au