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Bruxism treatment with splints

Bruxism treatment with splints (also known as night guards) is a common and effective method for relieving the symptoms of teeth grinding and clenching. Individually made splints protect the teeth from wear, reduce jaw muscle tension, and relieve pain.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Dmitri Gromov

Dentist

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Tooth wear and fractures: to protect teeth from further damage.
  • Jaw muscle pain and tension: caused by teeth grinding or clenching.
  • Headaches and migraines: especially in the morning, related to jaw muscle tension.
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems: pain and tension.
  • Improved sleep quality: by reducing night-time teeth grinding.
  • Improved comfort and quality of life: by relieving chronic symptoms

Common symptoms

  • Jaw joint and jaw muscle problems

    If there is jaw joint pain, clicking sounds, tension, stiffness, or chronic discomfort in the jaw area.

  • Jaw muscle tension or fatigue

    When you experience tension, stiffness, or fatigue in the jaw muscles, especially at the end of the day.

  • Morning headaches and jaw muscle discomfort

    If you frequently wake up with morning headaches or jaw muscle pain that persists or recurs regularly.

  • Nighttime teeth grinding or clenching

    If your partner or someone close to you has noticed that you grind or clench your teeth during sleep.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Bring with you: ID card or other identification document.
  • Write down: your main questions and concerns you wish to discuss with the doctor.
  • Information about: previous dental procedures, medications used, and your general health is helpful.
  • Note: before starting splint therapy, all other dental and gum problems must be treated.

What to expect during your appointment

Consultation and diagnostics

We discuss your symptoms and assess the condition of your teeth and jaw muscles.

Treatment planning

The diagnosis is explained and a suitable splint therapy plan is proposed. Before starting treatment, other dental and gum problems must be treated.

Impression taking

Precise impressions of your teeth are taken to create the splint.

Splint fabrication

An individual splint is made in a dental laboratory.

Delivery and adjustment

The finished splint is delivered and adjusted in your mouth.

Care instructions

Detailed instructions are provided for wearing and cleaning the splint.

Follow-up appointment

A follow-up visit is scheduled to evaluate treatment effectiveness.

Specialists providing this service

On the life long mission

Payment & Appointment Info

Payment methods

This service is not covered by Meliva Health Insurance. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Clinics offering this service

  • Al Mare Dental Clinic

    Al Mare Dental Clinic

    Address: Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 2a, 13522 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726611105

  • Open Järve Dental Clinic

    Järve Dental Clinic

    Address: Lelle 24, 11318 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726776800

  • Open Kaarli Dental Clinic

    Kaarli Dental Clinic

    Address: Toompuiestee 4, 10142 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726199119

  • Kuressaare Dental Clinic

    Kuressaare Dental Clinic

    Address: Tallinna 16, 93819 Kuressaare

    Phone number: +37251944828

  • KW Dental Clinic

    KW Dental Clinic

    Address: Pärnu mnt 22, 10141 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726619500

  • Open Maakri Dental Clinic

    Maakri Dental Clinic

    Address: Liivalaia 45, 10145 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726003300

  • Open Pärnu Dental Clinic

    Pärnu Dental Clinic

    Address: Väike-Kuke 4b, 80018 Pärnu

    Phone number: +3724459299

  • Open Sadama Dental Clinic

    Sadama Dental Clinic

    Address: Lootsi 3a, 10151 Tallinn

    Phone number: +372 6003300

  • Open Ülemiste Dental Clinic

    Ülemiste Dental Clinic

    Address: Lõõtsa 8a, 11415 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726199150

Related services

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is teeth grinding or clenching that can occur both during the day and at night, and may cause various problems.

How does a splint treat bruxism?

A splint creates a barrier between the teeth, protecting them from wear and helping relax the jaw muscles, reducing tension and pain.

Is wearing a splint painful?

At first, wearing a splint may cause mild discomfort or a feeling of pressure, which usually disappears within a few days.

How long does a splint last?

The lifespan of a splint is individual and depends on the material and how intensively it is used, but it usually lasts several years.

How should a splint be cleaned?

Splints should be cleaned daily using a soft manual toothbrush and liquid soap (not toothpaste). Regular dental check-ups are also important.

Is the splint visible?

The splint is transparent and discreet, making it barely noticeable in daily life. It is typically worn at night.

Is a splint the only treatment for bruxism?

No, other treatment options include stress management, physiotherapy, and botulinum toxin injections. A splint is one of the most common and effective methods.

Can I eat with a splint?

The splint should be removed while eating.

Does a splint help with headaches?

Yes, a splint helps reduce jaw muscle tension, which can contribute to headaches and migraines.

Is a splint suitable for everyone?

Suitability is assessed individually by a dentist, taking into account oral health and the severity of bruxism.