Grinding /Bruxing and Occlusal Splint
Bruxism is a condition wherein you grind your teeth during sleep. Most people are probably unaware that they grind their teeth from time to time mild grinding usually does not cause harm but if happening on a regular basis it can create damage to your teeth and other oral health complications can develop.
Why Is Teeth Grinding Harmful?
In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in fracturing, loosening, or loss of teeth. The chronic grinding may wear teeth down to stumps. Bruxism can also lead to strain and injury to the jaw joint (TMJ joint) and associated muscles. This can lead to pain, clicking or locking of the joint, or muscular headaches.
Common Signs and symptoms of bruxism:
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Worn tooth enamel, fractured or chipped tooth or fillings
- Tooth sensitivity or pain
- Tired or tight jaw muscles, or a locked jaw that won't open or close completely
- Jaw, neck, or face pain or soreness that sometimes extend s to the ear
- Dull headache
- Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheek
- Sleep Disorder such as snoring and sleep apnoea
What is an occlusal splint?
An occlusal splint is a slim hard acrylic guard fitted to the upper jaw and covering the biting surfaces of your upper teeth. It is designed to be worn at night. An occlusal splint will not stop you from grinding or clenching. It does, however, guide the jaw into a neutral position which relieves some of the pressure on the jaw joint and very effectively protects your teeth against the destructive forces of bruxism.
Is further treatment necessary?
In cases of severe bruxism in addition to an occlusal splint to protect your teeth, a referral will be made to the TMJ specialist, or treatment by a physiotherapist may be necessary to address any muscular pain and to provide exercises to strengthen and protect your jaw joint.
If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, contact us at 9642 33 47.
Service Benefits
Benefits of an Occlusal Splint for Grinding / Bruxing.
Benefit 1
Prevent tooth damage , helps reduce muscle tension and jaw pain.
Benefit 2
Improve sleep quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Over time, deep grooves will eventually form in the splint caused by the opposing teeth rubbing on the splint. Wearing the occlusal splint every night relieves the pressure on the jaw joints and protects your teeth against the damaging force of bruxism.
Without an occlusal splint biting surface of the teeth can be worn down which can lead to tooth sensitivity. It also increases the risk of having broken teeth or filling and even tooth loss.
No, you can't use your sports mouth guard for night grinding. Each appliance has it own purpose and design. A mouthguard is a protective barrier and is worn to help cushion a blow to the face, minimising the risk of injuries to your lips, tongue, face, and jaw and broken teeth.
While an occlusal splint is worn to protect teeth from teeth grinding during sleep
Your splint should always be kept clean. Use a soft toothbrush, soap and rinse it with cold water after every use and always dry the splint before storing it to the case provided to prevent bacterial growth. Occasionally, use Milton's solution to help keep clean and fresh.
