General Dentistry

Splints and Nightguards

Occlusal Splints/ Nightguards Adelaide

An occlusal splint, also known as a night guard is a commonly recommended dental appliance designed to help protect teeth from wearing and treat conditions like jaw pain. They help in treating patients who suffer from bruxism, a sleep-related disorder characterised by teeth grinding. Many people clench their teeth together at one time or another. However, frequent grinding can lead to damaged teeth, problems with the jaw, and other oral health issues.

If you are someone who clenches or grinds your teeth at night while sleeping, or if you experience pain in your jaw joints then you may need to consider wearing an occlusal splint. This device is specifically designed to address issues related to teeth and jaws.

What Is An Occlusal Splint?

An occlusal splint is a custom made removable dental appliance. Occlusal splints are designed to help protect and prevent the teeth, jaw and muscles from overuse, wear and damage. They are designed to be worn while you sleep, reducing the effects of grinding or clenching during the night.

What Are The Benefits Of A Splint?

An occlusal splint aims to help protect your teeth and their supporting structures, from damage which can be caused by clenching and/or grinding of the teeth, a condition known as bruxing. Bruxing is an involuntary habit that often people do while they are sleeping and often people do not even realise that they do it!

However, when we clench and grind our teeth together, it can cause significant and irreversible damage to the teeth and their supporting structures. As bruxing puts the teeth under immense stress and force. Bruxing can also put excessive strain and cause the overuse of muscles, which can become uncomfortable and painful. It can also lead to other issues and disorders relating to the temporomandibular joint.

So, a dental splint is designed to help protect your teeth, jaw and muscles from damage, overuse and strain which can be caused by bruxing. An occlusal splint also helps to open the jaw, creating increased vertical height, which helps to put the jaw in a more neutral or resting position. The splint also helps to guide the jaw as it moves. This again helps to reduce strain on the muscles and prevents the jaw joints from being overloaded.

We Welcome Your Call To Our Modbury Dental Clinic

If you think you grind or clench your teeth and are experiencing symptoms such as headaches, sore jaw and tooth sensitivity it may be time visit your dentist to assess if an occlusal splint is right for you. Contact us today for a consultation.

At Plaza Dental Care, we look forward to providing you and your family with quality preventive dental care for optimal oral health. It’s easy to schedule a booking. We can’t wait to see your smiles.