The occlusal plate, also known as the joint plate, is a transparent plastic tray that covers the upper teeth, lower teeth, or both, depending on the appearance of the bruxer. The purpose of the occlusal plate is to prevent the upper teeth from touching the lower teeth. It is the most commonly used device to protect teeth from wear caused by grinding and clenching teeth, as well as to absorb the forces involved.

It is possible to make a plastic tray that will be worn on the upper or lower teeth and whose contacts will be precisely adjusted to promote muscle rest. This solution is often used for a night port only. In other situations, the plate will have to be worn day and night, but this is usually a temporary solution.

The occlusal plaque is custom-made in the dental office from dental impressions previously taken from the patient. These impressions are used, first, to make models of the teeth and, second, to make the joint plate itself. There are a wide range of occlusal plate models to suit the dentition, occlusion and physiognomy of the burners.

It should be noted that a joint plaque does not cure the cause or consequences of bruxism. Rather, it acts as a preventive measure by allowing the jaw muscles to relax, thus reducing the pressure exerted on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). Over time, the teeth grinding reflex may disappear and the damage caused by the squeezing decreases considerably.

• Allows the relaxation of the jaw muscles;
• Promotes a restful sleep;
• Prevents premature wear of the teeth and jaw joint;
• Prevents the appearance of abfraction (wear in the form of an axe blow to the neck of the teeth);
• Prevents headaches and neck aches.

Some discomfort may be felt during the first few days of wearing the occlusal plate. This slight inconvenience is, however, temporary.

• Premature wear of the enamel and/or dentin of the teeth, which increases the risk of cold sensitivity and fracture if the wear is high;
• Loss of enamel where the teeth touch and appearance of a yellowish colour (dentin);
• When there is a lot of wear, small pieces of teeth can come off. A dental fracture is also likely to occur and some teeth may become mobile;
• Prosthetics, artificial crowns and fillings (fillings) are also at risk of wear and tear or breakage due to clenching or grinding of teeth;
• When tooth wear is very high, damage to or necrosis of the dental nerve can occur, resulting in the devitalization of worn teeth;
• Headaches and neck pains;
• Pain in the jaw and joint upon awakening;
• Feelings of stiffness in the cheeks, even up to the muscular trismus (contraction of the cheek muscle limiting the opening of the mouth);
• Loss of DVO (vertical occlusion dimension), which results in a change in the facial profile.

The models and plate can be manufactured on site or in an external laboratory. In such a case, two appointments are necessary: the first to take the impressions and the second to put the plate in the mouth and adjust it. The patient will be seen again about a week after insertion to check and adjust the occlusal plate if necessary.

The cost of the occlusal plate depends on the model and format of the occlusal plate.

It is very important to use brushes and specialized products for the maintenance of your occlusal plate.
The prosthesis products offered by Nova-dent® or Polident® can be used at home. In addition, it is important to bring your occlusal plaque to your dentist during hygiene visits since he has more effective products for the safe cleaning of this type of appliance.

Here are some tips to maximize the longevity of your occlusal plate:

• Brush and floss your teeth carefully before putting on your plaque;
• Always soften your device under hot water before putting it in your mouth;
• Clean your plaque after each use under cold water with a toothbrush and rinse well;
• Always allow your plate to air dry in its (open) container;
• Once a week, clean the device with a prosthesis cleaning tablet (maximum 15 minutes) to remove minerals and accumulated stains;
• A change in the colour (from transparent to slightly opaque) of the plate is possible;
• To avoid damaging the unit, always pull it equally on each side when removing it;
• Caution: keep your license plate away from your pets!

Not recommended for people with sleep apnea.

Dental solutions:

• Orthodontic treatment to correct a dental malocclusion can reduce the harmful effects of bruxism;
• When tooth wear is severe, an oral health professional can apply a varnish to the teeth to desensitize them and reduce the discomfort of the burner. Fluorinated gels can also be applied by the patient as part of his or her home hygiene care;
• A still emerging technique is to inject a botulinum toxin into the most powerful chewing muscles. The injected substance reduces the muscle strength exerted during bruxism episodes, thus limiting damage to the teeth and surrounding tissues. However, long-term results have yet to be determined.

External solutions:

• Reduce tooth grinding through relaxation;
• Avoid chewing objects so as not to accustom the chewing muscles to being functional outside meal and snack periods;
• Reduce stimulants such as alcohol and caffeine;
• Stretch the chewing muscles to relax them;
• Studies conclude that drugs that regulate sleep are not enough to stop bruxism. However, some muscle relaxants can be used, as long as they are discussed with a doctor or pharmacist beforehand to avoid developing an addiction.