Stabilization Splint

A stabilization splint is an occlusal appliance used to restore functional balance in the oral-maxillofacial system. Splinting refers to the external support, protection, and stabilization of tissues that show trauma, dysfunction, or structural weakness.

In the field of oral and dental health, this approach is applied in the form of bonding teeth together, semi-rigidly stabilizing teeth after trauma, or using occlusal appliances (referring to the closure, contacts, and relationship between upper and lower teeth) to regulate the biomechanics of the chewing system. Dentist Emin Serhat Arıkan, who serves patients in his clinic in Adana, provided information about the definition, uses, and benefits of stabilization splints.

What is a Stabilization Splint?

A stabilization splint is a custom-made occlusal appliance designed to reduce excessive and unbalanced forces on the chewing system by controlled regulation of the contact relationship between teeth. Especially in cases of bruxism (teeth clenching/grinding) and temporomandibular joint disorders, it provides functional balance by protecting the teeth, jaw joint, and muscle structure, relaxes muscle activity, and helps control pain symptoms. This acrylic splint, typically designed for nighttime use, can also be planned for daytime use if necessary.

What are the Uses of a Stabilization Splint?

Protection of Teeth During Treatment: During and after dental treatments, it helps protect teeth and restorations by reducing their exposure to excessive chewing forces and supports the stability of treatment outcomes.

Teeth Clenching and Grinding (Bruxism): It limits wear on tooth surfaces, reduces uncontrolled forces transmitted to the teeth, and helps relax the chewing muscles.

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Problems:  It helps alleviate pain by reducing the load on the jaw joint and supports the joint to function in a more physiological position.

Muscle-Related Jaw Pains: It is used as a supportive measure in reducing excessive tension and spasms in the chewing muscles.

Parafunctional Habits: It limits the negative effects of harmful habits such as pen biting or unilateral chewing on the oral-maxillofacial system.

What Advantages Does a Stabilization Splint Offer?

Protection of Tooth Tissues: It limits the formation of wear and micro-damage on tooth surfaces and helps preserve the integrity of the tooth structure.

Reduction of Muscle and Joint-Related Pains: By reducing excessive tension on the jaw muscles, it contributes to the alleviation of pain, sensitivity, and functional discomfort.

Balancing Jaw-Tooth Relationship: It regulates the contact relationship between the upper and lower jaws, supporting the jaw joints to work in a more balanced and physiological position.

Supporting Sleep Comfort: By reducing the effects of teeth clenching and grinding habits throughout the night, it can contribute to a more comfortable and uninterrupted sleep process.

 How is a Stabilization Splint Applied?

A stabilization splint is custom-planned for the patient after a detailed clinical examination and necessary evaluations by the dentist. In the initial stage, the jaw joint, the occlusal relationship of the teeth, and the muscle structure are examined. Then, impressions of the patient's mouth are taken, and a splint design suitable for individual needs is created.

According to the taken impressions, the stabilization splint, prepared in a special dental laboratory, is applied to the patient by the dentist. After application, the fit of the splint in the mouth and the occlusal balance are checked. Necessary adjustments are made, and the patient is provided with detailed information regarding the duration of use and maintenance.

What are the Differences Between a Night Guard (Occlusal Splint) and a Stabilization Splint?

There are significant differences between a night guard (occlusal splint) and a stabilization splint in terms of their purposes, the structures they affect, their functional effects, their methods of use, and their treatment approaches.

• A night guard primarily aims to prevent teeth from damaging each other during clenching and grinding. A stabilization splint, on the other hand, aims to provide functional balance between muscles, teeth, and the jaw joint throughout the chewing system.
• A night guard mainly focuses on protecting the teeth. A stabilization splint, however, exerts a therapeutic effect on the jaw muscles and temporomandibular joint, in addition to the teeth.
• Occlusal night guards are generally passive protective appliances. Stabilization splints actively provide muscle relaxation and joint relief by regulating the occlusal relationship.
• A night guard is mostly planned for nighttime use only. A stabilization splint, depending on clinical necessity, can be used during daytime hours in addition to nighttime.
• A night guard is more of a protective tool aimed at limiting symptoms. A stabilization splint, on the other hand, is applied in a controlled and planned manner as part of the diagnosis and treatment process.
• A night guard is much thinner than a splint. It wears out, gets perforated, or deteriorates with long-term use. A splint, however, is much more durable and long-lasting.