Occlusal splints

An occlusal splint is a dental appliance that is used to protect the teeth and jaws from grinding and clenching, which can cause discomfort and damage. Occlusal splints are also known as bite splints or night guards. They are often used to treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause pain in the jaw and surrounding muscles. Occlusal splints can be made from a variety of materials, including hard acrylic, soft acrylic, and silicone. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and are worn on the upper or lower teeth, depending on your specific needs. They are typically worn at night, but may also be worn during the day for added protection. Learn more about occlusal splints.

Can occlusal splints move teeth?

It is generally not the primary purpose of an occlusal splint to move teeth. Occlusal splints are typically used to protect the teeth and jaws from grinding and clenching, and to promote proper biting and chewing habits. However, in some cases, an occlusal splint may be used as part of a treatment plan to help correct misaligned teeth or a misaligned bite.

Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, is typically the main method used to move teeth and correct misaligned bites. However, an occlusal splint may be used in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to help stabilize the teeth and bite during the alignment process. In these cases, the occlusal splint is used to help hold the teeth in their new, corrected position while the surrounding gums and bones adapt to the changes.

It is important to note that the use of an occlusal splint as a means of moving teeth should be carefully planned and supervised by a dental or orthodontic professional. Improper use of an occlusal splint can potentially cause harm to the teeth and jaws.

Is an occlusal splint a night guard?

Yes, an occlusal splint is also known as a night guard. An occlusal splint is a dental appliance that is worn over the teeth to protect them from grinding and clenching, which can cause discomfort and damage. Occlusal splints are typically worn at night, hence the name “night guard”, but they may also be worn during the day for added protection.

Occlusal splints are made from a variety of materials, including hard acrylic, soft acrylic, and silicone. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and are worn on the upper or lower teeth, depending on your specific needs. In addition to protecting the teeth and jaws, occlusal splints can also help to reduce stress and tension in the facial and neck muscles, which can lead to headaches and other types of discomfort.

An occlusal splint, also known as a bite splint or a night guard, is a custom-made removable appliance that is worn over the teeth to protect them from grinding and clenching. It can be helpful for people who experience discomfort or damage to their teeth due to bruxism (teeth grinding) or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

Whether or not an occlusal splint is worth it depends on the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. In some cases, an occlusal splint may be an effective treatment option for relieving the symptoms of bruxism or TMD. In other cases, other treatments may be more appropriate. It is important to discuss your options with a dentist or other healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.