The unloading splint is an effective solution to combat jaw pain caused by bruxism or temporomandibular joint problems. Symptoms that usually appear due to stress and anxiety that we may experience due to our lifestyle, and can trigger situations in which we find ourselves grinding or clenching our teeth, causing significant damage to our oral health.
What are the unloading splints?
A
relief splint
is a dental treatment device specifically designed to relieve pain and tension related to temporomandibular disorders (TMD), bruxism (teeth grinding) and other associated conditions such as headaches and neck discomfort.
Its ability to be custom-made ensures patient comfort while wearing it. In addition, it is essential to emphasize that it is a conservative treatment that does not involve pain and is economical in comparison with other available alternatives.
What is the purpose of the discharge splint?
The discharge splint acts as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact and reducing pressure on the jaw muscles. This helps prevent tooth enamel wear, reduces muscle tension and contributes to the relief of pain associated with bruxism and temporomandibular disorders.
By minimizing the loads transmitted by the bite forces during clenching or grinding of the teeth, the unloading splint also has the ability to relax the facial muscles .
This process contributes significantly to relieving tension in the jaw, which is one of the main causes of pain in this joint. For this reason, the unloading splints are widely recognized for their effectiveness in the treatment of these disorders.
Types of unloading splints
There are several types of offloading splints available on the market, each designed to address specific needs and adapt to different clinical situations. Some of the most common types include:
- Rigid discharge splint: These splints are made of hard, durable materials, such as acrylic. They are ideal for patients with severe bruxism or severe temporomandibular disorders who require robust protection.
- Soft discharge splint: Made of flexible materials such as silicone, these splints are more comfortable to wear and are suitable for patients with mild to moderate bruxism.
- Adjustable unloading splint: These splints allow you to adjust the position of the jaw to optimize comfort and pain relief. They are ideal for patients who experience temporomandibular joint changes or who need further customization.
- Permissive unloading splint: This splint allows some degree of mandibular movement during the night. Designed with soft materials, it directs the condyles to a much more stable place.
- Guiding type unloading splint: Recommended to treat people who have some kind of disorder in the articulation disc. Corrects the position of the mandible during movement, especially during chewing and occlusion.
- Partial discharge splint: This type of splint covers only a part of the dental arch, either the upper or the lower one. When the condition is only found in one section of the mouth.
- Full relief splint: Recommended for patients whose bruxism or TMJ affects the entire mouth, provides overall protection.
How to Clean a Discharge Splint: Maintenance and Benefits
To ensure proper maintenance and effective sanitation of a mouthguard, it is essential to begin with good oral hygiene to prevent the accumulation of bacteria on both the mouthguard and the teeth.
Rinse the splint with water after each use to remove excess saliva and food debris. It is important to avoid hot water, as it may deform the splint material. Then, use a specific brush with soft bristles designed for cleaning discharge splints. Apply a small amount of toothpaste and carefully brush all surfaces of the device.
Once cleaned, make sure that the discharge splint is completely dry before storing it in its protective case. Proper storage helps prevent bacterial growth and material deterioration.
There are disinfectant tablets designed to be used weekly in the discharge splints. These tablets are effective in eliminating accumulated bacteria and ensuring deep cleaning.
By following these steps on a regular basis, you can extend the life of your mouthguard through proper care and maintenance. Remember that a clean splint not only ensures its effectiveness, but also contributes to maintaining optimal oral health.
How much does an unloading splint cost?
The cost of an unloading splint can vary considerably depending on a number of factorsFor example, simpler, standard off-loading splints tend to be less expensive, while customized or custom-fitted splints may have a higher price tag due to the additional labor and higher quality materials used in their manufacture.
Before deciding on a mouthguard, we recommend that you consult with your dentist or orthodontist for specific information on the types of mouthguards available, price of mouthguards and the insurance coverage options available to you.
At
Carlos Saiz Smile
we are pleased to provide you with the most effective solution to take care of your teeth with our unloading splints. If you would like more information, we are happy to guide you and help you every step of the way. You can
contact us without obligation
and we will provide you with all the information you need. Do it for your smile!