Splinting in dentistry is a therapeutic procedure used to stabilize and protect damaged or injured teeth, joints, and surrounding soft tissue. It is often used in cases of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, bite problems, fractures, or after tooth extraction to help protect the remaining teeth.
There are several types of dental splints, including:
Occlusal splints: This type of splint is used to protect the teeth from grinding or clenching, which can cause tooth damage and headaches.
Bite splints: This type of splint helps to realign the bite, reducing strain on the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles.
Night guards: This type of splint is used to protect the teeth from grinding or clenching during sleep.
Stabilization splints: This type of splint is used to stabilize loose or mobile teeth and to prevent further damage.
The splint is usually made of a hard acrylic material and is custom-fit to the patient’s mouth. It is typically worn at night or during certain activities, and is removed for cleaning and oral hygiene purposes.
In conclusion, splinting is a valuable treatment option for many dental problems and can help protect and preserve the health of the teeth and surrounding tissues.