MOUTHGUARDS & SPLINTS

A mouth guard is a protective accessory that people wear over their teeth to protect against teeth grinding at night and during sports. Most mouth guards cover your upper set of teeth. 


- Mouth guard or night guard 

- Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism)

- Sports guard 

- Contact sports athletes 

(eg. Rugby, Taekwondo, MMA, Football, Boxing, etc.)


At Smile Design Dental Practice, our dentist will recommend a suitable mouthguard or sports guard for you. 


In fact, most of us need one at some point of time. As people nowadays become increasingly stressed by studies, work, or relationships, we will indirectly reflect and manifest stress in various forms. One of these is unconscious teeth grinding and clenching during sleep. This is known as bruxism.

What is a Splint?


A splint may look similar to a mouthguard, but its usage and purpose are different. A splint is made from hard dental acrylic to commonly manage the dental disorder known as Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD). 


The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects your skull and jaw. When this joint is injured or damaged, pain is experienced in that area. An injured temporomandibular joint (TMJ) will cause pain when you chew or move your jaw. You may also experience clicking and cracking in the joints of your jaw on both sides of your face, as the nerves are inflamed, and frequent headaches may occur. 


Signs and Symptoms of TMD

- Clicking and popping of the jaws

- Pain and locking of the jaw joint area

- Pain and popping sounds in the ears

- Pain in the temple areas

- Frequent headaches

- Stiff and sore jaw muscles


The splint is designed to alleviate the pain and possible damage caused by grinding and clenching of teeth, protecting your teeth from daily wear and tear. Our doctors at Smile Design Dental Practice customize splints according to individual patients' needs after a careful and detailed examination.


We are equipped with multiple digital scanners and 3D printers. Our dentists scan, design and manufacture the splints in a short period of time (one working day completion and delivery). For those with a busy schedule or urgent needs, we offer this express option without compromising on the quality, to provide you with the relief and support you need.

What is Bruxism?


Bruxism is a condition where you grind or clench your teeth unconsciously, typically during sleep. Approximately 60% to 70% of the population grinds their teeth at some point in their lives. You will not be aware that you have bruxism as it happens during your sleep. Mild cases of bruxism do not require treatment.


However, some people may start to experience frequent headaches, soreness and discomfort at neck and shoulders muscles and pain at jaw joints. We recommend that these people seek dental treatment.

Signs and symptoms of Bruxism 


- The sound of teeth grinding and clenching is loud enough to wake your sleeping partner

- Teeth became chipped, mobile or flattened

- Increase tooth sensitivity and pain

- Tired or tight jaw muscles causing jaw, neck or face pain and soreness

- Frequent dull headaches around the temples

- Sleep disruption

 Maintenance of a mouth guard


A typical mouth guard can last for several years. However, with taily wear, you may expect some wear and tear or scratches on the biting surfaces. This means that your mouth guard is doing its job to protect your teeth. To keep your mouth guard clean and extend its lifespan, it requires regular maintenance.


Always remember to brush and floss your teeth before wearing any oral appliance. This will help prevent any food traps between your teeth, which can result in tooth decay.


Daily - Clean it by brushing with some toothpaste, rinse off thoroughly, then air dry

Weekly - Use a mouth guard tablet, soak the mouth guard in the water with the cleansing tablet

Regular Dental Check- Bring your mouth guard to your regular check at the dental clinic, allowing your dentist to inspect it. If the wear & tear is too severe, he/she may recommend replacing it.

Consult with us to determine the best type of mouthguard splint for your specific condition.


Schedule an appointment with us NOW! Call us at 6463 8588 or WhatsApp to 9815 5336


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