Bruxism and tooth wear are common problems that affect the quality of life of many people. Fortunately, night guards offer an effective solution to protect teeth and relieve related symptoms such as headaches, jaw tension, tooth wear, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. In this article, we will explore the benefits of night guards and why milled guards stand out against printed guards in terms of quality and durability.

What is a night guard and what are its benefits?

A night guard is a custom-made dental device that is placed over the upper or lower teeth, usually worn at night. Its main function is to protect the teeth from wear caused by bruxism (involuntary teeth grinding or clenching) and to reduce the strain on the jaw and TMJ.

Benefits of using a night guard:

1. Protection of tooth enamel: Bruxism can cause severe wear on teeth. Braces act as a barrier, protecting the enamel from this damage and prolonging the life of the teeth.
2. Reduction of muscle tension: The use of splints helps to reduce pressure on the jaw and muscles, relieving associated pain and tension.
3. Improved sleep quality: People who suffer from bruxism may experience sleep problems. Splints can reduce these grinding episodes, promoting deeper, more restful sleep.
4. Preventing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problemsBy reducing pressure and wear, you lower your risk of developing TMJ problems, a condition that can cause chronic pain and make basic mouth movements difficult.

Milled Splints vs. Printed Splints: Which is the Best Option?

Today, dental labs can manufacture splints using two main methods: milling and 3D printing. While both options are effective, each has different characteristics, and milled splints often stand out for several reasons.

Advantages of milled splints

1. Greater precision and custom fit: Milled splints are manufactured from a solid block of material using a milling process that eliminates imperfections and ensures a more precise fit to the patient's teeth, improving comfort and effectiveness.
2. Superior durability: Thanks to the milling process, these splints tend to be more resistant than 3D printed ones, as they are made of a compact and uniform material. This translates into greater resistance to wear, especially for those patients with severe bruxism.
3. Quality of material: Milled splints are usually made from high-quality resins, which gives them a smoother, clearer, and more aesthetically pleasing finish than printed splints. This also makes them easier to clean and reduces the buildup of bacteria on their surface.
4. Lower risk of breakage and deformation: Printed splints, being manufactured in layers, can be prone to small cracks or wear at their joints. Milled splints, lacking layers, are more homogeneous and structurally stable.
5. Greater comfort and better experience for the patient: Because of their more precise fit and finish, milled splints are often more comfortable to wear, adapting better to the patient's mouth and minimizing the discomfort that some people may experience with other types of splints.

Conclusion

Mouth guards are a valuable tool for dental health and care for those who suffer from bruxism or other problems related to jaw tension. While both milled and printed mouth guards serve this purpose, milled mouth guards offer clear advantages in terms of precision, durability, and comfort. For those looking for a high-quality, long-lasting solution, milled mouth guards are an investment that provides peace of mind and long-term health.

Trust Our Laboratory for Your Milled Splint

At our dental laboratory, we specialize in manufacturing the highest quality milled splints, using cutting-edge technology and durable materials that ensure a precise fit and exceptional comfort. We are committed to offering each patient a customized, long-lasting solution to protect their dental health and improve their quality of life.

If you are looking for a night guard that really makes a difference, don't hesitate to contact us! We will be happy to help you take care of your patients and their oral well-being with our superior quality products.