Occlusal plate
An occlusal plate is a thermoplastic appliance that prevents the upper teeth from touching the lower ones. This custom-made appliance is created from impressions of your teeth. In addition to preventing premature wear of your teeth, there are other reasons to wear a bite plate.
Why wear an occlusal plate?
Wearing an occlusal plate becomes necessary in cases of bruxism (teeth grinding) or pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Certain symptoms, such as migraines or facial muscle tension, can be caused by TMJ problems. However, these can be treated before complications arise: cracking of the joint, neck pain, restricted mouth opening, etc.
Adaptation period
Once the biteplate has been fabricated, it is worn overnight. However, according to certain recommendations, it can also be worn during the day.
In all cases, a short adaptation period follows after the initial insertion. Biteplate wearers can expect to experience increased salivation, and sometimes discomfort in the muscles of mastication. For those who wear an occlusal plate only at night, biting may be different in the morning, once the plate has been removed. Fortunately, this situation is temporary.
Additional tips
- To make it easier to place in the mouth, the occlusal plate can be softened by immersing it in warm water for a few minutes.
- Maintain your plate daily by brushing it with toothpaste.
- Once a week, soak your plaque for two hours in a solution of half water, half table vinegar OR a tablet of denture cleaner. This will prevent limescale build-up and deep-clean your appliance.
- If you experience joint pain while wearing an occlusal plate, it may need to be adjusted. In this case, we recommend that you consult your dentist.
- The biteplate can be worn as long as it has not been drilled. It is recommended to change it when this event occurs, i.e. after a few years or even months of use. The more severe the squeaking, the sooner the plate will need to be changed due to wear and tear.
- Bring your plate to every dental appointment to check for fit and wear, and to have it cleaned.
Think you need an occlusal plate? At Clinique dentaire Fortin Poirier, our team can advise you on how to wear and care for this appliance. Why not make an appointment today?
Need an occlusal plate?
Make an appointment with one of our dentists to learn more about the occlusal plate.
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