Bite Splints & Mouthguards
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth. About half of the people who suffer from this condition are completely unaware of it, because they do it while asleep. Unless signs or symptoms of the habit present and last into the daytime hours, a visit to Dr. Singleton may be the first time many bruxing patients are diagnosed.
Signs & Symptoms of Bruxism can include:
- Headaches or migraines
- Jaw, neck and/or shoulder discomfort
- Strong jaw muscles
- Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ Disorders)
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Gum recession
- Notching of teeth along the gumline
- Sensitive teeth
- Wear facets in teeth
- Cracked, chipped or broken teeth & restorations
- Cavities
- Stress
With the aid of an intraoral camera, Dr. Singleton can actually see physical evidence of a patient's grinding or clenching habit:
See how the devastation of Bruxism can progress:
Fortunately, Dr. Singleton can help you prevent the destruction Bruxism causes! Typically, he will prescribe one of the following splints:
NTI Plus Splint
The NTI Plus protects teeth, muscles and joints by preventing bruxism from occurring. Unlike most traditional bite splints, it actually has the ability to deprogram you from a clenching and grinding habit. The NTI Plus is also smaller, less bulky and won't trigger a gag reflex. Because it is comfortable, patients love it and wear it!
It was originally developed to prevent migraine pain, but is now proven to be a superior alternative to full coverage bite splints. The NTI Plus has been FDA Approved for the prevention of migraine pain and jaw disorders.
Advantages of the NTI:
Preserves your nature teeth
Reduces risk of cavities
Prevents cracked and fractured teeth
Reduces risk for root canal treatment
Reduces risk of gum disease
Reduces, if not eliminates, headaches and migraines
Reduces jaw and/or muscle fatigue
Encourages a healthy night of restful sleep
Full Bite Splint
A full bite splint is the traditional splint, which serves as a cushion between the upper and lower teeth. It is a hard piece of acrylic that is custom fit across the upper teeth to prevent wearing down of the enamel.
In some patients, it provides a ideal clenching surface and may increase clenching activity. Therefore, in most cases Dr. Singleton prefers to use the NTI Plus Splint & can modify your existing full splint into the NTI style.
Sport Mouthguards
Dr. Singleton also provides & recommends rubber mouthguards for patients who participate in sports or strenuous activities that may potentially injure their teeth. Call today if you or your child needs a custom made mouthguard.
