A jaw splint is a custom-made oral appliance designed to support and protect the jaw and teeth. It alleviates discomfort, improves jaw function, and helps manage various issues affecting the mouth and jaw system.
Understanding Jaw Splints
These appliances are commonly made from hard acrylic resin, though some variations might incorporate softer materials or a combination of hard and soft components. The splint’s primary function is to provide support and repositioning for the jaw and teeth.
The splint works by creating a stable and balanced biting surface, which helps to distribute forces evenly across the dental arch. This action can relieve pressure on the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) and surrounding muscles. This allows the jaw muscles to relax, which can reduce inflammation and muscle tension.
Conditions Treated by Jaw Splints
Jaw splints are commonly prescribed for several dental and medical conditions affecting the jaw. They primarily manage temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause pain, clicking sounds, and limited jaw movement. The splint helps to stabilize the jaw joint, promoting a more natural alignment and reducing strain.
Another frequent application is for bruxism, a condition of teeth grinding or clenching, often occurring during sleep. A splint acts as a physical barrier, protecting teeth from wear, fractures, and damage caused by grinding. Jaw splints can also alleviate associated symptoms such as jaw pain, muscle spasms, and headaches linked to jaw tension. They also provide support during recovery, such as after jaw surgery.
Different Kinds of Jaw Splints
Various types of jaw splints are available, each designed for specific therapeutic goals. Stabilization splints, also known as flat plane or Michigan splints, are among the most common. These full-coverage devices typically fit over all the upper teeth, providing a flat surface that helps to distribute biting forces evenly and relax jaw muscles. While they can reduce grinding, they do not always prevent clenching.
Repositioning splints, or anterior repositioning splints (ARS), are designed to guide the lower jaw into a specific forward or backward position. This type of splint aims to improve the relationship between the jawbone and the disc within the TMJ, often used for conditions involving jaw clicking. In terms of material, splints can be hard, soft, or a combination. Hard splints, made from rigid acrylic, offer durability and precise occlusal balance, suitable for severe grinding. Soft splints, made from flexible material, offer more comfort for mild grinding but are less durable.
Using and Maintaining a Jaw Splint
When first using a jaw splint, patients may experience an initial adjustment period, including increased saliva production, which typically resolves. Your dentist will provide specific instructions on how to insert and remove the appliance, as well as the recommended wear schedule, which can vary from nighttime-only use to wearing it for specific hours during the day. It is advised to remove the splint when eating or drinking to maintain its integrity.
Proper cleaning and maintenance are important for hygiene and to prolong the splint’s lifespan. After each use, the splint should be rinsed with warm water and gently brushed with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild, non-abrasive soap. Abrasive toothpastes and hot water should be avoided, as they can damage or warp the material. For a deeper clean, denture cleaning tablets or solutions of white vinegar and water can be used periodically, followed by thorough rinsing.
When not in use, the splint should be stored in its protective case in a cool, dry place to prevent damage and bacterial growth. Regular follow-up appointments with your dentist are necessary for adjustments and to monitor treatment progress.