Occlusal splint for bruxism (clenching and grinding)

A custom night splint protects teeth, fillings, veneers and crowns from wear and fractures caused by clenching or grinding.

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth, most often during sleep but also during the day. The forces involved are several times greater than in chewing, so over time teeth wear, chip and crack.

Signs of bruxism

  • worn, flattened or chipped tooth edges,
  • sensitivity to cold,
  • frequent fractures of fillings, veneers or crowns,
  • tense and painful jaw muscles, especially in the morning,
  • morning headaches or pain in the temples,
  • tooth imprints on the edge of the tongue or the cheeks.

Bruxism is often noticed by a partner who hears the grinding at night. At the examination we recognise it by the characteristic tooth wear.

How does a splint help?

A splint is a thin, hard appliance worn at night on the upper or lower teeth. It distributes clenching forces across the whole dental arch, protects teeth and restorations from wear and offloads the jaw muscles. It does not cure bruxism, but it prevents the damage it causes.

Protection is especially important if you have veneers, crowns or dental implants.

How the splint is made

  1. Examination – assessment of tooth wear, the jaw muscles and the temporomandibular joint.
  2. Digital impression – we scan the teeth with an intraoral scanner, without conventional impression materials.
  3. Fabrication – the splint is custom-made to fit your teeth.
  4. Fitting – we fit the splint, check the contacts and bite, and show you how to care for it.
  5. Check-ups – we check the splint at regular visits and adjust it when needed.

Additional options

Where the jaw muscles are markedly tense, additional treatment of the muscles can be discussed at a consultation. Because bruxism can be linked to stress or sleep-disordered breathing, we may also recommend seeing an appropriate specialist.

Price

You will receive an exact price for the splint after the examination. Other prices are listed in our price list.

Who treats you

Splints are made by the dentists on our team. Meet the whole team.

Frequently asked questions

Is the splint uncomfortable?

It feels unusual for the first few nights, but most patients get used to it within a few days.

Can I use a splint from the pharmacy?

Soft over-the-counter splints are not custom-made and can even encourage clenching. A custom hard splint fits the teeth precisely and distributes forces evenly.

How do I clean the splint?

After each use, rinse it and clean it with a soft toothbrush without toothpaste, and store it in a dry case.

How long does a splint last?

It depends on the intensity of the bruxism. We check wear at check-ups and replace it when needed.

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We usually reply within one working day. For urgent problems call +386 51 649 647.