
Customised Dental Splints at Affordable Costs in Brisbane
Experiencing teeth grinding or clenching during the night and waking up with headaches or jaw pain can be challenging. Fortunately, at Brisbane Dental Clinic, our dentist offers a solution in the form of a customised dental splint at a cost you can afford in Brisbane. Our specially designed splint can help alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with teeth grinding and jaw tension.
Don’t let teeth grinding disrupt your well-being. Contact us today to learn more about dental splint costs in Brisbane.
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What Is a Dental Splint From Our Brisbane Clinic?
A dental splint is a custom-made oral appliance designed to address issues like teeth grinding (bruxism) and jaw clenching. It is usually made from a durable and comfortable material and is worn at night or during specific times to help alleviate the symptoms associated with these habits. The splint helps protect teeth from damage caused by grinding, reduces muscle tension in the jaw, and can aid in relieving headaches and jaw pain.
Dental Splint Cost in Brisbane
The cost of a dental splint can vary based on factors such as the type of splint, materials used, the complexity of the case, and individual dental clinic pricing. Generally, a basic dental splint might cost less, while more specialised or customised splints could be higher. It’s recommended to schedule a consultation with the experts at Brisbane Dental Clinic to discuss your specific needs and receive an accurate cost estimate for a custom-made dental splint.
Types of Dental Splints at our Brisbane Clinic
Orthodontic Retainers:
These are custom-made oral appliances used following orthodontic treatment, such as braces or aligners. Their primary purpose is to maintain the newly achieved teeth alignment over time, preventing unwanted shifting or relapse.
Space Maintainers:
These specialised dental devices are crafted to address the premature loss of primary (baby) teeth. By securely holding the space left by the missing tooth, space maintainers aid in preserving sufficient room for the proper eruption of permanent teeth, thus helping to avoid potential crowding or misalignment issues.
Occlusal Splints:
Also referred to as bite splints, these are custom-fitted mouthpieces designed to address various bite-related concerns. Notably, they are effective in correcting bite misalignments, alleviating discomfort associated with jaw joint issues (TMJ) and mitigating the harmful effects of teeth grinding or clenching, commonly called bruxism.
Sports Guards:
Essential for safeguarding teeth during physical activities and sports, sports guards are protective devices worn over the teeth. They act as a barrier, shielding teeth from potential impacts and trauma that could occur while engaged in sports, thereby reducing the risk of injury and dental damage.
TMJ Splints:
These are specialised appliances aimed at managing TMJ disorders. By providing support to the jaw joint and promoting proper alignment, these splints help alleviate discomfort, reduce muscle tension, and enhance overall jaw function, improving oral well-being and reducing TMJ-related symptoms.
Occlusal Splint Vs Mouth Guard
While both occlusal splints and mouth guards are dental appliances, they serve different purposes. Occlusal Splint is a dental appliance designed to address specific bite-related issues. It is custom-made to fit the contours of your teeth and jaws. An occlusal splint serves multiple purposes, including correcting bite misalignments and improving jaw alignment, alleviating symptoms associated with TMJ disorders, and preventing teeth grinding (bruxism). A mouth guard, on the other hand, is a protective device typically used during sports or physical activities to shield teeth from potential impacts and injuries. Unlike occlusal splints, mouth guards are not designed to address specific dental issues like bite problems or TMJ disorders.
Benefits of Occlusal Splints
Prevent Tooth Damage:
Occlusal splints create a protective barrier that shields teeth from the harmful effects of grinding and clenching, preventing enamel wear and potential damage.
Reduce Jaw Pain & Headaches:
By promoting proper bite alignment and relieving tension in the jaw muscles, occlusal splints can help alleviate jaw pain and reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
Improve Quality of Sleep:
For individuals who grind or clench their teeth during sleep, occlusal splints provide a more restful sleep experience by reducing these disruptive habits and associated discomfort.
Caring For Your Dental Splint
Looking after your dental splint is essential to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. Here are some tips to help you maintain your dental splint:
Frequently Asked Questions
Individuals who face the following issues can benefit from dental splints:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching, especially during sleep.
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders causing jaw pain or discomfort.
- Headaches related to dental issues or jaw tension.
- Teeth sensitivity resulting from enamel wear due to grinding or clenching.
Suppose you don’t wear a dental splint when recommended. In that case, you may experience increased tooth wear, persistent jaw pain, frequent headaches, aggravated TMJ symptoms, risk of dental injuries, and potential orthodontic relapse. Following your dentist’s advice is essential to address dental concerns effectively and prevent possible complications.
Dental splints are custom-made oral appliances. The process involves:
- Dental Examination: The dentist evaluates your oral health, identifies dental issues, and determines if a splint suits your needs.
- Impressions: The dentist takes precise impressions of your teeth and jaws using dental putty or digital scanning.
- Model Creation: A plaster or digital model replicates your teeth and jaw structure based on the impressions.
- Splint Fabrication: The dental splint is fabricated using the model as a guide. It is made from a durable and comfortable material, like acrylic or resin.
- Custom Fitting: Once the splint is ready, the dentist ensures a proper fit by adjusting and polishing it to match your bite and jaw alignment.
- Final Check: The dentist verifies the splint’s effectiveness and comfort and provides care instructions.
Occlusal splints are for individuals who experience:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching.
- Bite misalignment
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders causing jaw pain.
- Frequent headaches due to jaw tension
- Tooth wear from grinding or clenching
- Sensitivity resulting from enamel erosion.
- Need to maintain teeth alignment after orthodontic treatment.
These splints provide therapeutic benefits and protection, addressing various dental concerns. A dentist can determine if an occlusal splint suits your needs.
Signs that you might be grinding your teeth include:
- Waking up with headaches or jaw pain
- Teeth feeling sensitive.
- Noticing flattened, chipped, or worn-down teeth
- Aching facial muscles or pain in your temples
- Hearing clicking or popping sounds in your jaw.
- Noticing a partner’s observation of teeth grinding noise at night
If you suspect teeth grinding, consult a dentist for an evaluation and to explore potential solutions like dental splints.
The lifespan of an occlusal splint can vary based on factors like the material used, the severity of your dental condition, and how well you maintain it. Generally, occlusal splints can last several years with proper care. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor the condition of the splint and determine if it needs replacement.
To clean your occlusal
- Rinse : Wash the splint with cool water to remove debris.
- Brush Gently : Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste to clean the splint’s surfaces gently.
- Rinse Again : Thoroughly rinse to remove any cleaning agents.
- Dry: Pat the splint dry with a soft cloth
- Store: Keep the splint in its case when not in use.
- Avoid Harsh Substances: Refrain from cleaning it using harsh chemicals or hot water.
Regular cleaning helps maintain the splint’s hygiene and effectiveness.
Occlusal splints are typically worn during specific times, depending on your dental needs:
- Nighttime:Many people wear occlusal splints at night to prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching during sleep. This protects teeth and reduces associated discomfort
- Daytime Clenching: If you clench your teeth during the day, your dentist might recommend wearing the splint during certain daytime hours to minimise jaw strain.
- TMJ Disorder Management: Occlusal splints can be worn throughout the day to help manage temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and alleviate associated symptoms.
- Sports Activities: Sports guards, a type of occlusal splint, are worn during physical activities to protect teeth from injury.
Occlusal splints are commonly made from durable and safe materials, including:
- Hard Acrylic: A rigid material that provides durability and protection against teeth grinding and clenching.
- Soft Acrylic: A more flexible variant of acrylic that offers cushioning and comfort while addressing dental issues.
- Thermoplastic Resin: A mouldable material that can be customised to your teeth and reshaped.
- Hard-Soft Combination: Some splints combine a hard outer layer for durability with a softer inner layer for enhanced comfort.
The choice of material depends on your specific dental condition, comfort preferences, and your dentist’s recommendation.
Dental splints are not typically considered permanent solutions. They are often used for specific periods to address dental issues and provide relief. The duration of use varies based on the dental concern being addressed, such as teeth grinding, TMJ disorders, or bite misalignments. Your dentist will guide how long you should wear the splint and when it may need replacement or adjustment.
Health insurance coverage for dental splints in Australia can vary depending on the specific policy and insurer. Some health insurance plans may provide coverage for dental splints, especially if they are deemed medically necessary to address dental conditions such as teeth grinding or TMJ disorders. It’s essential to check the details of your health insurance policy, including coverage limits, waiting periods, and any pre-authorisation requirements.
Get A Custom Dental Splint
Experience relief from teeth grinding, jaw pain, and more with our customised dental splints. Schedule a consultation with our experts and say goodbye to your dental concerns.