An occlusal splint is a custom-made dental appliance that fits over your upper or lower teeth. It is commonly known as a night splint, bite splint or dental night guard.Made specifically to fit your teeth, an occlusal splint is designed to create a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. It is usually worn while sleeping, although some patients may benefit from wearing one at other times as advised by their dentist.Unlike a standard sports mouthguard, an occlusal splint is designed specifically to manage the effects of teeth grinding, clenching and certain jaw-related conditions.

Many people clench or grind their teeth, a condition known as bruxism. This can happen during sleep or throughout the day, often without the person being aware of it.Over time, repeated clenching and grinding can place excessive pressure on the teeth, dental restorations and jaw muscles.Your dentist may recommend an occlusal splint to help protect your teeth from further wear and damage, particularly if there are signs of ongoing grinding or clenching.

An occlusal splint may be recommended for patients experiencing:Teeth grinding and clenching: Helps protect the teeth from excessive wear.Tooth wear or damage: Helps reduce further damage associated with grinding.Jaw muscle soreness: May help reduce muscle discomfort associated with clenching.Jaw joint discomfort: May form part of a treatment plan for certain temporomandibular disorders (TMD).Morning headaches or facial tension: May help when these symptoms are associated with teeth grinding or jaw muscle activity.Damage to fillings, crowns and other restorations: Provides a protective surface that may help reduce the effects of excessive biting forces.Not everyone with these symptoms will need an occlusal splint. Your dentist will assess your teeth, jaw and symptoms to determine whether this treatment is suitable for you.

An occlusal splint works by providing a protective surface between your upper and lower teeth when you bite or grind.It helps distribute biting forces across the splint rather than allowing your natural teeth to take the full impact of repeated contact. This can help reduce the risk of excessive tooth wear, chips and damage to existing dental restorations.Depending on your individual needs, the splint may also help reduce strain on the jaw muscles and joints.It is important to understand that an occlusal splint does not necessarily stop you from grinding your teeth. Instead, it helps manage the effects of grinding and may relieve associated symptoms.

A properly fitted occlusal splint may offer several benefits, including:Protects your natural teeth from excessive wear caused by grinding.Helps protect dental work, including fillings and crowns, from excessive forces.May reduce jaw discomfort associated with clenching and grinding.May relieve muscle tension and some related headaches.Supports long-term oral health by helping manage the effects of ongoing bruxism.Provides a personalised fit designed specifically for your teeth and bite.The benefits will vary depending on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Some patients experience noticeable relief, while others may require additional treatment.

With regular use as recommended by your dentist, an occlusal splint can help protect your teeth from further grinding-related damage.Some patients may also notice less jaw soreness, reduced muscle tension or fewer morning symptoms. However, results are individual, and improvement in pain or headaches is not guaranteed.If you experience persistent jaw pain, headaches or ongoing grinding, your dentist may recommend additional strategies alongside your splint, such as stress management, habit awareness or other appropriate treatment.Regular dental reviews are important to ensure your splint continues to fit correctly and is working as intended.