A dental splint is an oral device designed to protect, stabilize, or reposition the teeth and jaw structures. These appliances, often called night guards or occlusal splints, are frequently recommended to manage conditions like bruxism (involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth) and Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), which affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. A splint acts as a barrier, cushioning the teeth against destructive forces. The price is directly linked to the specific type of splint needed to address the individual’s underlying dental issue.
Different Types of Dental Splints
The design and materials used for a dental splint determine its classification and ultimate price. The most basic and least expensive options are over-the-counter (OTC) splints, which are typically one-size-fits-all or “boil-and-bite” devices made of soft, thermoplastic material. These are temporary solutions offering minimal customization and are generally used for mild, short-term teeth grinding protection.
A significant step up in quality and cost is the custom-made splint fabricated by a dental laboratory after the dentist takes impressions or a digital scan of the patient’s mouth. Custom splints can be categorized by their material hardness. Soft splints, made from flexible vinyl, are comfortable for mild bruxism cases but may wear out more quickly than others.
The most durable and often most costly options are hard acrylic splints, which are rigid and offer precise control over the bite. Stabilization splints, a type of hard splint, are frequently used to treat moderate to severe bruxism and TMD by helping to relax the jaw muscles and stabilize the joint. Mandibular Repositioning Appliances (MRAs) are a more complex type of splint designed to physically adjust the jaw’s position, often required for specific TMD issues.
Average Price Ranges for Splints
The cost of a tooth splint varies dramatically based on its complexity, material, and the provider’s location. The cheapest option is an over-the-counter boil-and-bite guard, which typically costs between $20 and $50 from a pharmacy or retailer. While accessible, these guards are not recommended for long-term use or severe conditions, as their generic fit can sometimes cause more problems than they solve.
Custom-fitted night guards, designed to protect teeth from bruxism, generally fall into a price range of $300 to $800. These custom appliances offer superior fit and durability compared to OTC options, reflecting the professional expertise and lab costs involved. For more advanced occlusal splints or stabilization splints used to manage TMD, the price range is higher, often between $500 and $1,500.
Complex appliances like Mandibular Repositioning Appliances (MRAs) or those requiring highly specialized fitting can be significantly more expensive, sometimes costing $1,500 to $3,500 or more. Geographic location also influences the final price, with practices in major metropolitan areas often charging higher fees than those in rural settings.
Additional Costs Beyond the Splint Device
The cost of the physical splint device itself represents only a portion of the total expense for a custom appliance. Patients must first account for the necessary diagnostic procedures that precede splint fabrication. An initial comprehensive dental examination is required to diagnose the underlying issue, which involves a fee separate from the splint cost.
Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or more advanced scans, may be necessary to assess the jaw joint and bite alignment, adding to the initial expense. The process of taking dental impressions or performing a digital scan to create the mold for the custom splint is another mandatory cost.
After the splint is delivered, a series of follow-up appointments are often required for precise adjustments to ensure the appliance maintains the correct bite relationship and comfort. These adjustment fees and potential maintenance or repair charges over the splint’s lifespan contribute significantly to the overall out-of-pocket spending.
Insurance Coverage and Payment Options
Insurance coverage for a dental splint is frequently dependent on the diagnosis and the specific language of the patient’s policy. Dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, particularly if the device is classified as an occlusal guard necessary to prevent damage from bruxism. Many dental plans have annual maximums and may only cover 50% of the allowable fee, often leaving the patient with a substantial balance.
For splints prescribed to treat complex Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) symptoms, medical insurance may sometimes provide coverage, as TMD can be considered a medical condition. Patients should verify whether the plan considers the splint medically necessary and understand that pre-authorization is usually required. Beyond insurance, patients can explore options like dental savings plans, or financing through third-party medical credit companies or in-office installment plans.