Splints & Night Guards
What is an occlusal splint or night guard?
An occlusal splint is a device made of acrylic resin that is worn over the occlusal, or biting surface of your upper or lower teeth. Whereas a mouth guard protects your teeth from any sort of impact, a splint is designed to hold two parts together to prevent harmful movement or behaviour.
What are the benefits of a splint or night guard?
An occlusal splint or night guard may be recommended for several reasons, including if you experience tooth grinding, clenching, or early TMJ pain. If you're experiencing jaw pain in the TMJ area, getting a splint or night guard is an efficient, low-cost method to help remedy the movement that's causing it, or prevent it from getting worse.
What to expect when getting your splint:
Getting fitted for an occlusal splint takes place over a series of appointments. First, your oral surgeon will take impressions of your teeth in order to create plaster cast models.
At your next appointment, you'll get an opportunity to try on your splint and have adjustments made by your oral surgeon until it's comfortable. Depending on your treatment, our team may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor the status of your splint and/or any TMJ symptoms you were experiencing prior to treatment.
How to take care of your tmj splint:
You can easily take good care of your splint or orthotic appliance by following these four easy steps:
- Your splint should always be soaked in room temperature water or antibacterial solution when not in use. Try to avoid leaving your splint exposed to dry air.
- Your splint should be cleaned before and after use with toothpaste and toothbrush, followed by a goose rinse.
- When traveling, always place the splint in a plastic bag with about 1cc of water inside. Fold the plastic bag around the splint and place it in your travel container.
- If you have any "high spots" on the splint which develop over time, please call the office and your splint will be adjusted.
How do I know when it's time to replace my splint?
It's time to replace your splint or night guard if you start to notice any foul odours, holes, or general wear and tear. Usually, it's time to replace your splint after three to four years of use.