Night Splints
Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep
Why Night Splints Matter
Teeth grinding (also known as bruxism) and clenching during sleep can cause significant wear and tear on your teeth — often without you even realising it. Over time, these habits can lead to tooth damage, jaw pain, headaches, and even broken dental work. A night splint, also referred to as an occlusal splint or night guard, is a custom-made appliance designed to protect your teeth and jaw from this damage while you sleep.
At Lithgow Dental, we offer professionally made night splints tailored to your bite, ensuring a comfortable and effective fit that helps reduce the long-term impact of bruxism.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the involuntary habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, most often during sleep. It can affect both children and adults and is often related to:
- Stress or anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Jaw alignment issues
- Bite imbalances
- Lifestyle habits such as caffeine or alcohol intake
Some people may not be aware they’re grinding until they notice symptoms or a partner hears the noise at night. If left unaddressed, bruxism can wear down enamel, cause tooth fractures, and contribute to issues like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort.
Signs You May Need a Night Splint
At Lithgow Dental, we provide custom-fitted acrylic night splints that are:
- Made from durable, medical-grade materials
- Comfortable to wear during sleep
- Designed to fit either the upper or lower teeth depending on your bite
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Clear and discreet
We avoid the use of bulky or over-the-counter “boil-and-bite” splints, which often provide poor fit and limited effectiveness. A professionally made splint ensures better retention, comfort, and long-term durability.
The Process: Getting Your Night Splint
Creating a custom night splint is a simple, two-step process:
- Dental Impressions or Scans
We begin by taking a precise mould or digital scan of your teeth. This ensures your splint is customised to your unique bite for comfort and accuracy.
- Fitting Appointment
Once your splint is ready (usually within 1–2 weeks), we’ll have you return for a fitting. We check the fit, adjust the bite if needed, and provide instructions for wearing and cleaning the splint at home.
Caring for Your Night Splint
To keep your splint clean and in good condition:
- Rinse it under cool water after each use
- Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush (no toothpaste needed)
- Store it in its case when not in use
- Keep it away from heat (e.g., hot water, sunlight)
- Bring it to your check-ups so we can examine the fit over time
With proper care, your night splint can last for several years and help preserve your teeth and jaw health well into the future.
Why Choose Lithgow Dental?
Professional custom-made night splints
Comfortable, accurate fit using modern techniques
Clear advice and support on managing bruxism
Ongoing monitoring at your regular check-ups
Compassionate care in a relaxed, judgement-free space
Our team is committed to helping you protect your smile in every way — especially while you sleep.
Can I buy a night guard from a chemist?
While chemist-bought guards are available, they are often bulky, ill-fitting, and less effective. A custom-fitted night splint made by a dental professional offers far better comfort and protection.
Will wearing a splint stop me grinding my teeth?
Night splints won’t necessarily stop the grinding, but they act as a barrier to prevent wear and reduce the pressure on your teeth and jaw joint.
How long will my night splint last?
With regular cleaning and proper care, your night splint can last several years. We check its condition during your routine dental visits.
Is a splint uncomfortable to sleep in?
Most patients adjust to their splint within a few nights. Since it’s custom-fitted to your mouth, it’s far more comfortable than generic alternatives.
Do I wear the splint every night?
Yes, we recommend consistent nightly wear for the best protection. However, if your bruxism is occasional, your dentist may adjust the frequency based on your needs.
Will health funds cover a night splint?
Many health funds offer rebates for custom-made dental appliances under major dental cover. We’re happy to check your benefits or provide a quote before proceeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
