Teeth Grinding and Bite Splints

Many people grind their teeth at night without noticing it. It is the consequences that first draw attention to it, such as a tense jaw in the morning. A bite splint (also called a grinding splint) can then protect the teeth.

How you may notice it yourself

Alongside grinding there is clenching, where the teeth are pressed firmly together. Both mostly happen during sleep and therefore go unnoticed. Often it is a partner who notices it first.

Typical signs are a tense jaw, headaches in the morning and sensitive teeth. Sometimes we see flattened chewing surfaces or fine cracks in fillings at a check up. If you notice something like that, please mention it to us at your next appointment.

How it comes about

There is usually no single cause. Stress often plays a part, because tension from the day carries on at night in the jaw muscles. Sleep habits and the way the teeth meet each other can also contribute.

How a bite splint works

The bite splint does not switch the grinding off. It lies over one row of teeth and takes up the pressure. Your teeth then no longer rub directly against each other, and the wear is reduced. At the same time the jaw muscles can relax. Many patients report that their jaw feels looser in the morning.

How it is made and cared for

First we take an impression of your teeth. In the laboratory a splint is made from it that fits your jaw exactly. At the next appointment we insert it and adjust it until it sits quietly and the bite rests evenly. After a while we check it once more.

Clean the splint after wearing it with a soft brush and cold water. Hot water can deform it. Keep it dry and airy and bring it with you to every check up.

What else can help

Besides the splint, a calm evening does many people good, for example with some movement, a walk or a relaxation exercise. With strong tension, physiotherapy for the jaw and the neck can be sensible as well. Whether a bite splint comes into question for you is something we are happy to look at calmly and to discuss further with you.