OCCLUSAL SPLINT/NIGHT GUARDS

An occlusal splint, commonly known as a night guard, is a custom-made acrylic oral appliance that fits over your upper or lower teeth. Typically worn during sleep, it may also be recommended for daytime use in certain cases. Occlusal splints help reduce teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching, protect teeth from damage, and relieve muscle and joint pain.

You may benefit from wearing a night guard if you experience:

  • Jaw muscle soreness or joint pain
  • Loosened or worn-down teeth
  • Gum pain due to clenching
  • Morning fatigue or headaches
  • Intermittent toothache
  • Sleep apnea

If you’re dealing with any of these symptoms, wearing an occlusal splint at night can help prevent more serious dental complications. At Ingersoll Dental Care, we offer high-quality, custom-made night guards that fit precisely and provide maximum comfort and protection.

If you are looking for a Splint/Night guards in London, Ontario, Contact our office at (519) 485-4951 today, or book an appointment.

USES OF OCCLUSAL SPLINTS

Occlusal splints are used to manage conditions like:

  • Bruxism (teeth grinding)
  • Teeth clenching

WHAT IS BRUXISM?

Bruxism refers to involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, often during sleep. It wears down the tooth enamel, flattens teeth, and can lead to:

  • Jaw pain
  • Headaches and earaches
  • Tooth fractures or sensitivity
  • Damaged dental restorations
  • Sleep disturbances (even for partners)

While the exact cause of bruxism is unclear, stress is a common trigger. If left untreated, it can worsen TMJ disorders and other oral health problems.

DENTAL ISSUES CAUSED DUE TO TEETH GRINDING (BRUXISM) OR CLENCHING

  • Cracked fillings and fractured teeth
  • Receding gums or worsening of periodontal issues
  • Shortened or flattened teeth
  • Chronic jaw pain and headaches
  • Disrupted sleep and fatigue

Bruxism during sleep is especially harmful, as it’s more difficult to control. Occlusal splints offer a non-invasive and effective treatment to help prevent these issues.

TYPES OF OCCLUSAL SPLINTS

The night guards or occlusal splints are of multiple types, including:

1. PERMISSIBLE SPLINTS

These include bite planes and stabilization splints. They feature a flat, smooth surface that allows the jaw to glide freely, helping it find a natural resting position. These splints help reduce tension in the jaw muscles and prevent grinding.

2. NON-PERMISSIBLE SPLINTS

Also known as directive splints, these have ramps or indentations that guide the jaw into a specific position. Examples include anterior repositioning appliances and mandibular orthotic appliances, often used for more complex TMJ corrections.

3. HYBRID OCCLUSAL SPLINTS

These combine a hard outer shell for durability with a soft inner layer for comfort. They provide both strength and a pleasant fit, making them ideal for extended wear. With proper care, they can last up to three years.

MATERIAL OF OCCLUSAL SPLINTS

Occlusal splints are fabricated from:

  • Acrylic resins
  • Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA)
  • Methyl methacrylate (MMA)
  • Bisphenol A-free materials (for safety)

The material choice depends on comfort preferences, the severity of grinding, and the patient’s oral condition.

COSTS OF OCCLUSAL SPLINTS

The cost of a custom occlusal splint typically ranges from $400 to $500, depending on the type and materials used. While more expensive than over-the-counter options, custom-made night guards offer superior fit, comfort, and long-term protection, helping you avoid more costly dental procedures in the future.

FAQs:

Yes, while night guards are primarily designed for nighttime use, your dentist may recommend wearing one during the day in severe cases. Regular check-ups ensure the guard continues to fit properly and provide effective protection.

Most patients notice significant improvement within three months of consistent use. Symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, and facial discomfort typically reduce during this period. If symptoms persist, further dental evaluation may be necessary.

Occlusal splints can help adjust jaw alignment by relieving pressure on the TMJ and reducing muscle tension. They also help correct bite imbalances and provide vertical support to teeth during rest. While they are not permanent realignment tools, they can significantly improve jaw function and comfort.

Wearing an occlusal splint is a simple yet powerful step toward protecting your teeth, improving sleep, and managing jaw pain. If left untreated, these issues can lead to more complex oral health concerns requiring surgical intervention.