What is a dental splint?
A dental splint refers to several types of orthodontic devices used today to treat numerous dental problems. Such issues include bruxism (tooth grinding), issues with apnoea (interrupted breathing, usually during sleep) and snoring. A dental splint is fit a dentist clinic. It is designed specifically for each, to perfectly fit patients teeth.
Bruxism (tooth grinding)
5% of Australian adults will experience Bruxism, habitual tooth grinding. Despite this, children can also suffer from bruxism. It can be natural to either grind or clench your teeth under certain stressful situations. However, chronic tooth grinding can be seriously harmful to the teeth. Eventually, bruxism can affect tooth functionality, lead to tooth sensitivity and compromise physical appearance.
Although grinding teeth is common during stressful situations when you are awake, the most common tooth grinding occurs during sleep. This can sometimes be the result of a sleep disorder such as sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea isbwhen you experience periodic interruption of breathing during your sleep. In this case, a dental splint can be greatly beneficial in order to stop the teeth from wearing out by reducing the grinding between teeth.
Treatment of muscle pain
Another use of a dental splint is to treat TMJ pain (Temporomandibular joint pain). This can occur for a number of reasons. The TMJ connects the lower jaw to the skulls temporal bone (in front of the ear) and daily processes such as chewing can impact this pain. Using a splint in that area can help relieve the stress of the muscle.
Indications you might need a dental splint
The most obvious factors that you may need a dental splint is if you are experiencing the symptoms from any of the above issues. Your dentist will be able to see whether there is visible wear of teeth, in addition to complaints of muscle pains which can indicate that a dental splint is a possible solution. In some cases, partners will be able to hear and pick up on sleep time bruxism. Using a dental splint will protect the teeth from grinding and relieve any muscle soreness at the same time.
Proper care of the splint
A patient will wear the splint to match their sleeping schedule, and should last them about 5-7 years. Splints come in various shapes, styles and sizes to match a patients bite, wear pattern and tolerance.
Just like any other type of dental appliance, or the patient’s teeth for that matter, a dental splint must receive the proper care. For example, if you don't clean your splint it can lead to periodontal infections. Additionally, you must handle and store the splint correctly to avoid deforming of the splint, which will place additional stress on the jaw and teeth. Don't worry, all you need to know around the proper care of the dental splint is covered in detail during your fitting at the dentist.
If you think you may be experiencing any of the above conditions or would like to find out more about dental splints book a consultation with Dr Kate Amos or Dr Sam Rosehill at Ethical Dental on 6652 3185 or book online.
