Dental or Orthodontic Splints are devices that are used when patients suffer from certain types of dental problems. These problems include TMJ or TemporoMandibular Joint disorder, common snoring, sleep apnea, and teeth grinding (bruxism).
In orthodontics, a “splint” is designed to fit on top of the upper or lower teeth. Treatment varies based on each patient’s individualize needs and is most often used to stabilize the teeth and/or jaws to alleviate discomfort. A TMJ splint may be used prior to placement of braces to help alleviate discomfort if the problem is a result of a bad bite or be used during orthodontics to open the bite. It is also used upon completion of orthodontic treatment if a patient is neurologically prone to grinding. In this scenario, the splint may also act as a retainer.Read more on SPLINTS ARE FOR MORE THAN JUST BROKEN BONES…….