What Is an Occlusal splint?
An occlusal splint, also commonly know as a grinding guard, is a dental appliance that is worn over the top of your teeth on your upper or lower jaws. It is usually made up of a durable acrylic or 3D printed nylon and it is worn every night and during the day if required.
Grinding mouth guards are an essential part of dentistry as we use them for a variety of reasons. One of the main uses for an occlusal splint is to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching (bruxism).
Grinding can severely damage your teeth and can also result in jaw problems and muscle aches. Occlusal splints help alleviate this problem by forcing your teeth to grind on another surface, thereby reducing the pressure and wear on your own teeth.
Occlusal splints are also recommended after extensive dental work including heavily filled teeth and to protect the crowns or veneers.
There is sometimes a link between night-time habits of grinding and sleep apnoea. If you snore, have restless sleep or other sleep problems, it may be prudent to consult with us for a sleep consult prior to getting your splint made. Also ensure your teeth have been checked properly first before getting a splint made.
Signs you might need a Grinding Guard
Teeth Grinding
You grind your teeth in the absence of any sleep problems (such as sleep apnoea). The majority of the time, this happens while you are sleeping and you are unaware of it.
Teeth Clenching
Sometimes people find they also clench during the day when focusing on something. This can severely damage your teeth and can also result in jaw problems and muscle aches.
Worn Down Teeth
Evidence of excessive wear of your teeth resulting in flat, worn down teeth. Teeth naturally should be pointy so if you are missing these sharp edges (especially on your canines) – this means you might be grinding.
Muscle aches and headaches
Symptoms of this include tightness in the cheek/jaw, headaches, neck aches, teeth pain (that can’t be localised)
Cheek and tongue lines
You have indents on your tongue (scalloping) and lines on the inner sides of your cheek (linea alba)
No Snoring Guard required
You do not need a snoring mouth guard or any other kind of mouth guard.
Need help with your Occlusal Splint?
We have a variety of Payment Plans available – giving you the flexibility of paying for your grinding guard later.
Grinding Mouth Guard Procedure and Care Instructions
An occlusal splint is custom made to fit your mouth and ensure an even bite around your teeth. Please DO NOT try to make one yourself using the ‘Boil-and-Bite’ pharmacy versions because can do more damage to your bite and teeth.
We take special 3D scans of your teeth and this is sent to a dental laboratory where splint is made. It takes around 2-3 weeks to be returned. We then book you back to fit it and do any adjustments if required.
Just like any other dental appliance, to clean an occlusal splint, we recommend that you soak it in a denture/plate cleaner and brush it with warm, soapy water on a regular basis.
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Common Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Occlusal splint cost?
Occlusal splints costs vary depending on the type of splint and type of material used. Typically, most splints should cost easily under $1,000.
Does a Mouth Guard stop teeth grinding?
No, mouth guards or occlusal splints do not stop teeth grinding – they are management solutions and do not fix the root cause of your grinding.
Can you use a sports mouth guard for teeth grinding?
100% no! Never use a soft sports mouth guard for teeth grinding. This may make your teeth grinding habit worse due to the soft flexible nature of the mouth guard.
How often do I need to replace a grinding guard?
Your severity of your grinding/clenching will determine the longevity of the occlusal splint. Newer materials are much more durable however they are still susceptible to wear. You would much rather have to replace a splint than break teeth!
