Have you ever woken up with pain in your jaw, facial muscles or even a headache with no apparent cause? These symptoms, along with wear and tear on your teeth, may be signs that you need a mouthguard. At our dental clinic in Murcia, we encounter many patients who present with problems derived from bruxism or teeth grinding, a condition that can generate a series of discomforts and affect your dental health in the long term.
The bite splint is a resin device that helps protect your teeth and relax your jaw muscles. Its main function is to act as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing wear and reducing the pressure you exert when clenching or grinding. As a dentist in Murcia, I recommend those who suspect they may have bruxism or feel discomfort in their jaw not to ignore these symptoms, as treatment with a splint can prevent further complications.
But, How do I know if this is the case for me?
- Jaw pain on wakingOne of the most common symptoms of bruxism is pain or stiffness in the jaw when getting up. This tension can be relieved with the use of a jaw splint.
- Worn or flat teethBruxism causes visible wear on the teeth, causing the chewing surfaces to flatten or decay. The splint protects the teeth from continuous contact.
- Dental sensitivityIf you notice that your teeth have become more sensitive to cold or heat, it may be due to wear caused by clenching your teeth. The mouthguard acts as a barrier, reducing sensitivity.
- Headaches and neck tensionBruxism generates pressure that affects not only the mouth, but also other areas such as the head and neck. Relieving splints help to reduce this tension and improve rest.
- Protection of other dental treatmentAs a dentist in Murcia expert in aesthetic dentistry, I always include in my ceramic veneers treatments, the unloading splints, to help protect them at night while we sleep. As I always say, not using a splint with veneers is like having a Ferrari and parking it all night on the street.
