Bite splint (grinding splint)
A bite splint, also known as a grinding splint, is a dental product that is mainly used to protect the teeth and alleviate discomfort caused by bruxism - the unconscious grinding or clenching of the teeth.
A splint is customized and usually made of plastic. It is placed over the upper or lower teeth at night to prevent direct tooth contact and protect the chewing surfaces from wear and tear.
As well as protecting the teeth, the bite splint can also help to relax the jaw muscles and prevent jaw pain and other symptoms caused by bruxism, such as headaches and tooth damage. It is also sometimes used to correct the alignment of the jaw or to treat other specific dental problems.
Immediate relief splints such as the RehaSplint or the Aqualizer are used in various situations, especially for acute complaints or as a temporary solution. Here are some of the most common applications:
- Acute jaw pain: for sudden jaw pain or temporomandibular joint discomfort caused by tension, dysfunction or excessive chewing pressure, immediate relief splints provide quick relief by reducing the strain on the temporomandibular joint.
- Bruxism (teeth grinding): Patients who struggle with teeth grinding at night or during the day can use an immediate relief splint to immediately protect their teeth from abrasion and relieve pressure on the masticatory muscles while planning a long-term solution.
- Diagnosis of CMD (craniomandibular dysfunction): In cases of CMD, immediate relief splints such as the Aqualizer can be used for clinical functional diagnostics. They help to detect occlusal disorders and muscular imbalances by relaxing the jaw muscles and adjusting the position of the jaw.
- Temporary solution before long-term therapy: Before a customized splint is made, temporary splints can serve as a temporary solution to bring the jaw into a relaxed position and alleviate symptoms while the exact position for long-term therapy is determined.
- Post-operative phase: After dental procedures, such as jaw surgery or extensive dental treatment, immediate relief splints can help to relax the masticatory muscles and support the healing process.
- Stress-related jaw tension: In situations where stress leads to jaw tension or pain, immediate relief splints can be used to relieve symptoms in the short term and take pressure off the jaw.
- Sports and accident injuries: Following trauma to the jaw or facial area, such as a sports accident, immediate relief splints can be used to stabilize the jaw and reduce pain until detailed treatment can be provided.
- Adaptation to changing bite positions: During orthodontic treatment, especially when wearing braces or aligners, the bite position changes continuously.
Immediate bite splints can help to distribute the chewing pressure evenly during this phase and make it easier for the jaw muscles to adapt to the changing occlusion. Immediate occlusal splints offer an immediate solution for people with teeth grinding or jaw discomfort. They are ready to use immediately after fitting and provide quick protection for your teeth and relief from jaw pain. These splints not only improve your sleep quality by reducing bruxism, but are also a cost-effective and simple alternative to custom-made options, ideal for immediate protection or as a temporary solution.