Mouthguards and Occlusal Splints
The Mouthguard
A mouthguard is a removable device that covers the teeth and gums to absorb and distribute the force of an impact, especially during sports. There are three types:
- Pre-formed mouthguards, sold at pharmacies or sporting goods stores
- Universal thermoplastic mouthguards, which can be customized at home by boiling them
- Custom-made mouthguards, fabricated by a dentist for an optimal fit
Benefits of a mouthguard
- Protects teeth, gums, tongue, and jaws from impacts and prevents fractures or tooth loss
- Limits wear and injuries caused by clenching the teeth
- Reduces damage to the oral mucosa
- Reduces the risk of concussion
Why choose a custom-made mouthguard over an off-the-shelf model?
Custom-made mouthguards, fabricated by a dentist, offer maximum protection and optimal comfort. They fit the teeth perfectly, stay securely in place, and allow you to breathe and speak normally.
In contrast, preformed or thermoplastic mouthguards sold in stores often fit poorly. They offer limited protection and can be unstable or interfere with breathing and speaking. A custom-made mouthguard provides protection tailored exactly to your teeth for enhanced protection and optimal comfort.
Making of a Custom Mouthguard
Two appointments are required:
Taking an Impression
During the first appointment, an impression of your teeth is taken to create the custom mouthguard.
Fitting
During the second appointment, your dentist will adjust the mouthguard and provide instructions for use and care.
The Occlusal Splint
An occlusal splint is a custom-made, transparent mouthguard that covers the upper teeth, lower teeth, or both, depending on the situation. It prevents direct contact between the teeth to limit wear caused by grinding and clenching, while absorbing the forces exerted on the jaw. The contacts are precisely adjusted to promote muscle relaxation, and the appliance is most often worn at night, although temporary day-and-night wear may be recommended in some cases.
Made from dental impressions taken in the clinic, the mouthguard is customized to fit each person’s teeth and bite. It does not treat the cause of bruxism (teeth grinding), but acts preventively by reducing pressure on the temporomandibular joints and protecting the teeth from damage caused by clenching.
Benefits of the occlusal splint
- Helps relax the jaw muscles
- Improves sleep quality
- Prevents premature wear of the teeth and the jaw joint
- Reduces the risk of abfraction (wear at the base of the teeth)
- Helps prevent headaches and neck pain
Occlusal Plate Care
Use appropriate brushes and products to care for your occlusal plate. Denture cleaners such as Nova-dent or Polident are suitable for home use. Bring your occlusal plate with you to your dental hygiene appointments.
To extend its lifespan:
- Brush your teeth and floss before putting it in
- Soak it in warm water to soften it before inserting it
- Clean it after each use with cold water and a toothbrush, then rinse
- Let it air dry in its open case
- Once a week, use a denture cleaning tablet (max. 15 min)
- A slight opaque film may develop over time
- Remove it by pulling evenly on both sides
- Keep it out of reach of pets