OCCLUSAL SPLINT Meaning and
Definition
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An occlusal splint, also known as a dental splint or bite splint, is a removable dental device used to treat a variety of oral conditions related to the biting surfaces of the teeth. It is typically made from acrylic and is customized to fit a patient's mouth.
The primary purpose of an occlusal splint is to redistribute and alleviate the forces exerted on the teeth and jaw muscles. It is commonly prescribed for individuals who suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding) or temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), as it helps minimize the effects of clenching and grinding by providing a cushioning effect and preventing tooth wear. By creating a stable and balanced occlusion, an occlusal splint can help alleviate symptoms such as headaches, jaw pain, muscle tension, and tooth sensitivity.
The construction of an occlusal splint involves taking an impression of the patient's teeth and sending it to a dental laboratory for fabrication. The device is then adjusted to ensure proper fit and occlusion. It is typically worn during sleep or times of high stress, although some variations of occlusal splints may be designed for daytime use as well.
Regular dental check-ups and maintenance are necessary for occlusal splint wearers to monitor the condition of the device and make any necessary adjustments. It is important for patients to follow their dentist's instructions regarding cleaning, storage, and usage to effectively manage their specific condition and obtain optimal results.
Common Misspellings for OCCLUSAL SPLINT
- icclusal splint
- kcclusal splint
- lcclusal splint
- pcclusal splint
- 0cclusal splint
- 9cclusal splint
- oxclusal splint
- ovclusal splint
- ofclusal splint
- odclusal splint
- ocxlusal splint
- ocvlusal splint
- ocflusal splint
- ocdlusal splint
- occkusal splint
- occpusal splint
- occousal splint
- occlysal splint
- occlhsal splint
- occljsal splint
Etymology of OCCLUSAL SPLINT
The word "occlusal splint" is derived from two main components: "occlusal" and "splint".
1. Occlusal: The term "occlusal" relates to the occlusion of the teeth. It originates from the Latin word "occludere", meaning "to shut, close, or block". In dentistry, occlusion refers to how the upper and lower teeth come together when the mouth is closed.
2. Splint: The term "splint" comes from the Middle English word "splinte" and Old English word "splint" which originally meant a thin strip of wood to support a broken or injured limb. It has evolved to encompass various forms of supportive devices used in different fields, including dentistry. In dentistry, a splint is an appliance that helps stabilize, support, or protect teeth, jaws, or any oral structures.
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