Night Guard
Occlusal Splint and Night Plate
Night guard (occlusal splint) is a personalized plastic or hardness-grade appliance placed between the upper and lower teeth during sleep. It aims to reduce the friction of teeth against each other during clenching and grinding (bruxism).
Unlike ready-made athlete plates, it is produced in the laboratory according to physician measurements; Adaptation is important for occlusion and joint comfort.
Indication and Examination Findings
It is evaluated in complaints of tooth wear, jaw muscle tension, morning headache or TMJ sensitivity. The diagnosis of bruxism is supported by clinical findings and patient history; A night record is not a substitute for a bruxism record.
Plaque does not treat underlying causes such as stress or sleep disturbance; It is for preventive and symptom management purposes.
Material and Production
Soft or hard splint options are determined according to the case. Upper jaw plates are more frequently preferred; mandibular plates can be used in special indications.
Laboratory production after measurement may take a few days. Occlusion control is performed upon delivery.
Use and Maintenance
It is mostly recommended to be worn at night; Short-term use during stressful periods during the day can be recommended by a physician. Washed with clean water; Abrasive toothpaste may scratch the surface.
The plate that is broken, deformed or shows shade change should be replaced. Storage in a box is recommended.
Expectations and Limits
May help slow tooth wear and reduce jaw muscle tension; It is not claimed to completely eliminate all symptoms. It can protect existing restorations.
In the first days, increased salivation or mild discomfort may be observed. At regular check-ups, fit and wear are evaluated; Plaque life depends on the severity of bruxism.
Splint Types and Selection
Michigan splint, NTI or soft night guard are evaluated in different indications. A hard splint may be more protective against tooth wear; A soft splint may offer comfort, but may not completely suppress the chewing force.
The plate does not eliminate the cause of bruxism; Stress management and sleep hygiene can be recommended as supportive measures.
In the first weeks, increased salivation or mild discomfort may occur. Plate wear and occlusion are evaluated at regular check-ups; The deformed plate should be replaced.
Plate may require frequent replacement due to growth in children; In adults, it is renewed depending on the severity of wear.
The use of plates can protect existing crowns and composite restorations against wear.