Bruxism Occlusal Splint

What is bruxism and why should you treat it?

Bruxism is the involuntary habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, usually during sleep. It is much more common than it seems: it is estimated to affect between 8% and 31% of the adult population. The problem is that, since it occurs while we sleep, most people are unaware that they have it until the first symptoms appear.

The consequences of untreated bruxism can be very serious: progressive wear of tooth enamel, fractures in teeth, jaw and neck pain, recurring headaches, increased tooth sensitivity, and temporomandibular joint problems. The sooner action is taken, the less accumulated damage will need to be repaired.

The occlusal splint: the most effective treatment against bruxism

A bruxism splint is a rigid or semi-rigid plastic device that fits precisely over the patient's dental arch. Its function is to create a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact during nighttime grinding and distributing pressure forces evenly to prevent wear.

Unlike generic mouthguards sold in pharmacies, the custom-made mouthguard we create at Laura Fernández Dental Clinic is crafted from an exact mold of your teeth. This guarantees a perfect fit, greater comfort while sleeping, and real effectiveness against bruxism.

Clinic splint versus pharmacy splint

	Pharmacy splint	Custom-made splint in clinic
Manufacturing	Generic, standard size	Based on an exact mold of your teeth
Adjustment	It doesn't fit your mouth.	Perfect fit verified in consultation
Nighttime comfort	It can be uncomfortable and even counterproductive	Designed for your rest
Follow-up	None	Periodic check-ups included

What is the process like at our clinic in Cieza?

The process is simple and comfortable. During your first visit, we take measurements and impressions of your teeth. From this mold, your custom-made retainer is manufactured in the lab. At a second appointment, we adjust it and verify that the fit is perfect. From then on, you simply put it in every night before going to sleep.

In addition, we carry out regular follow-up to check the condition of the splint and detect any changes in bruxism, something that pharmacy solutions can never offer you.

Benefits of a custom-made bite splint

• • Immediate protection of tooth enamel against wear from grinding.

• • Reduction of jaw, neck and head pain associated with bruxism.

• • Improved sleep quality for both the patient and their partner.

• • Perfect fit to your dentures for greater nighttime comfort.

• • Manufactured from strong and durable materials.

• • Professional follow-up included by our team in Cieza.

 

Care and maintenance of your splint

A well-cared-for splint lasts for years; a neglected one deteriorates in months.
The routine is simple and will only take you a minute a day.

Before putting it in, brush your teeth thoroughly. Sleep with the splint in.
Food debris on the surface promotes the appearance of cavities just underneath.

When you get up, remove it and clean it with a soft brush and cold water or
lukewarm. Avoid toothpaste, which is abrasive and scratches the skin.
surface, and of course alcohol, bleach or any product
aggressive. Water and a neutral soap are enough. Don't use water either.
Hot: Heat can deform the material and ruin the fit.

Dry it thoroughly and store it in its ventilated case, never wrapped in a
not even in a pocket. Once a week is a good idea.
For a more thorough cleaning, soak it in water with an effervescent tablet.
of the kind sold in pharmacies for dental prostheses.

Bring it with you to your checkups. It allows us to check the fit, detect
if the wear pattern has changed and warn you in time when it's due
replace it. If you notice cracks, an odor that doesn't go away with cleaning, or
who no longer fits in like the first day, makes an appointment without waiting for the
revision.

Frequently asked questions about bite guards

How much does a bite splint cost?

At Laura Fernández Dental Clinic, the price of a custom-made bite splint is €260 including VAT. This price includes taking measurements, laboratory manufacturing, and the fitting appointment.

 

Are they the same as pharmacy splints?

No. Pharmacy mouthguards are generic and don't fit your teeth, which can be uncomfortable and even counterproductive. A custom mouthguard is made specifically for you from impressions of your mouth.

 

How long does a bite splint last?

With proper maintenance, a quality splint can last between 3 and 5 years. During our regular checkups, we assess its condition and notify you when it needs replacing.

How do I know if I have bruxism?

The most common symptoms are jaw pain upon waking, visible tooth wear, increased tooth sensitivity, morning headaches, and neck tension. If you recognize any of these, we recommend scheduling an appointment for an evaluation.

Does a night guard cure bruxism?

The splint protects the teeth from the effects of bruxism, but it doesn't eliminate the habit itself. For comprehensive treatment, our clinic assesses each case individually and can complement it with other therapeutic recommendations.

Book an appointment at our dental clinic in Cieza

If you have symptoms of bruxism or have already been diagnosed and need a mouthguard, don't delay. At Laura Fernández Dental Clinic, in the center of Cieza, we are available Monday through Friday. Call us at 868 97 60 35 or to 633 73 68 61 and we'll explain everything to you without obligation, or Write to us from the contact page.