Custom Dental Splints and Sports Mouthguards
Custom Dental Splints
Custom dental splints are oral appliances often indicated for people who show signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), which are conditions affecting the jaw joints and associated muscles. They may also be used to protect the teeth from wear in people who have parafunctional habits such as grinding or clenching.
Splints are designed to:
- Reduce strain on the jaw muscles of mastication
- Protect the teeth from traumatic grinding and clenching, which can contribute to TMD symptoms
- Alleviate pain and discomfort associated with TMD, such as headaches and jaw pain
Custom dental splints are precisely fabricated based on impressions or digital scans of the teeth and bite. They can be soft or hard and may be adjustable and modified as needed.
Sports Mouthguards
Sports mouthguards are protective devices worn during athletic activities to prevent dental injuries and trauma. They are particularly important for contact sports like rugby, hockey, and boxing, where there is a high risk of impact to the face and mouth.
Benefits of Sports Mouthguards
- Cushion the teeth and jaw from direct blows, reducing the risk of tooth fractures, avulsions (teeth being knocked out), and other dental injuries
- Protect the soft tissues of the lips, cheeks, and tongue from lacerations caused by the teeth
- Help stabilize the jaw and absorb impact forces
Custom-made sports mouthguards are fabricated using impressions or digital scans of the teeth, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit. They provide superior protection compared to over-the-counter, boil-and-bite mouthguards.
Both custom dental splints and sports mouthguards are important tools for protecting oral health and preventing dental trauma in their respective contexts.