| Re: Splints Must Be Made Correctly..to work
Karen,
My splint is a hard, clear, acrylic bottom fit. It looks similar to a flat plane, but has very small bite wings to keep my teeth from moving around. The bite wings are just a very small thicker area on each side on the front. You have to look hard to see them.
It's very small & thin. Only about a mm or so of acrylic between my teeth.
It doesn't have a specific name. It was designed to support my joints and "passively" relax muscles.
My bite was surgically set 16 years ago with Orthognathic Surgery, which included braces for these surgeries and then a little Dental Work. My bite was not bad to start with, but along the way, I lost a few good teeth due to various problems. I have some Bridgework to compensate.
I've had other Dental Work and my dentist always makes sure never to change my bite.
The splint doesn't change it either. It's primary function is to unload the joints and keep the muscles from over-working or over-compensating.
My Dentist believes the less or least, regarding an appliance, that can be used to alleviate symptoms, the better.
He believes many splints are too large all around and many have the back teeth, too far apart. He believes this adds trauma to the joints, regardless of the nature of the problem.
Theories on Splint Designs change constantly. His belief is take the simplest and safest route to achieve the desired results.
To be aware of any changes an appliance will make to the patient's bite, muscle position, joint structure, etc. and avoid further damage or problems.
He has never made 2 splints exactly the same. He says he has never had 2 patients with exactly the same problems, symptoms or damage.
I hope you have found the same kind of Dentist,
Good Luck.
Cymy Sue
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