A dental splint is a custom-made oral appliance typically used to stabilize, protect, or support the teeth and jaw. It is usually made from hard or soft acrylic material and fits over either the upper or lower teeth. Dental splints serve several purposes in dental and orthodontic care:
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Treatment of Bruxism: Splints are often prescribed for patients who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism), especially at night. They help protect teeth from wear and reduce strain on jaw muscles.
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Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD/TMJ): Splints can alleviate symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, or clicking sounds in the jaw by repositioning or relaxing the jaw to relieve pressure on the temporomandibular joint.
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Orthodontic and Post-Orthodontic Care: After braces or orthodontic adjustments, splints can help maintain new tooth positions or stabilize the bite.
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Trauma or Injury: In cases of dental trauma or loosened teeth (e.g., due to an accident), a splint may be used temporarily to hold teeth in place while healing occurs.
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Bite Adjustment: Splints may be used diagnostically or therapeutically to assess and modify a patient’s bite in preparation for further dental procedures.
Would you like a more detailed explanation for a specific type of splint or condition?
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