610-397-1020
If you live with temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ, or if you habitually grind your teeth, a condition known as bruxism, you may want to talk with our dentist about having an occlusal splint made to protect your smile.
One of the side effects of TMJ and bruxism is pain. Dr. Franco Picofazzi can use a 3D model of your smile to custom-create an occlusal splint or bite guard for you to wear as you sleep. This appliance can be used to hold your upper and lower teeth slightly apart to relieve your pain. It can also keep you from grinding your teeth subconsciously or while you sleep. Another function of a bite guard is to guide the movement of your jaws back and forth and side to side to reduce the effects of TMJ and bruxism, and it can support the muscles you use while chewing. In some cases, a bite guard can even be used to treat sleep apnea. The device is made from acrylic and is durable and comfortable to wear.
If you would like to find out if you could benefit from a bite guard in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, call Picofazzi Dental at 610-397-1020 and speak with a member of our team today.