Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Occlusal Guards Technical/Medical Term: D9940

Summary

An occlusal guard is a specialized dental appliance designed to protect your teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching, known as bruxism. It is a custom-fit, removable mouthpiece typically worn during sleep.

Purpose

Occlusal guards are used to treat and prevent damage from bruxism (teeth grinding) and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). The main goals are to alleviate jaw pain, prevent tooth wear, and reduce the risk of further dental complications.

Indications

• Chronic teeth grinding or clenching, especially at night.
• Jaw pain, stiffness, or discomfort.
• Wear and tear on teeth, including cracked or broken teeth.
• Diagnosed temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Preparation

• No special fasting or medication adjustments are generally required.
• A dental examination and possible imaging (like X-rays) may be needed to assess the structure of your jaw and teeth.
• Dental impressions are taken to create the custom-fit guard.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Consultation: The dentist assesses symptoms and examines your teeth and jaw.
2. Dental Impressions: Molds of your teeth are taken to ensure a proper fit.
3. Guard Fabrication: The impressions are sent to a dental lab where the guard is custom made.
4. Fitting Appointment: Once the guard is ready, you return for a fitting appointment to ensure it fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments.
5. Instructions: The dentist provides guidance on how to wear and care for the guard.

Duration

• The initial consultation and impressions: About 30-60 minutes.
• The guard fabrication: Usually 1-2 weeks.
• The fitting appointment: Approximately 30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in a dental office or outpatient dental clinic.

Personnel

• General Dentist or Prosthodontist: Responsible for the assessment, impressions, fitting, and adjustments.
• Dental Hygienist or Assistant: May assist in taking impressions and providing care instructions.

Risks and Complications

• Discomfort or difficulty adjusting to wearing the guard.
• Excessive salivation or dry mouth.
• Rarely, the guard may cause minor irritation to the gums or mouth.
• If improperly fitted, it could exacerbate TMJ disorders or cause shifting of teeth.

Benefits

• Protection from tooth wear and damage caused by bruxism.
• Reduction in jaw pain and associated symptoms.
• Improved sleep quality by minimizing nocturnal grinding.

Recovery

• Post-fitting, patients may need a short adjustment period of a few days to get used to wearing the guard.
• Follow-up visits may be scheduled to make any necessary adjustments.
• Regular cleaning and maintenance of the guard as instructed by your dentist.

Alternatives

• Behavioral Therapy: Stress management techniques to reduce grinding.
• Medications: Muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety medications.
• Other Dental Appliances: Different types of mouthguards or splints.
• Pros and cons vary, but alternative treatments may not provide as direct protection as an occlusal guard.

Patient Experience

• During the impression taking, you might feel a bit uncomfortable as the molding material hardens around your teeth.
• Minimal discomfort is expected while adjusting to the guard.
• Simple pain management may involve OTC pain relievers if needed, but significant discomfort is rare.
• Most patients adapt quickly and report relief from grinding-related symptoms soon after regular use.

Remember to follow any specific instructions provided by your dentist to ensure the best results and longevity of your occlusal guard.