Preventive dentistry includes protecting teeth before damage becomes extensive. Fissure sealants, fluoride, bruxism management, protective splints and care for sensitive teeth can all form part of a preventive approach. The common aim is to reduce avoidable wear, decay or discomfort through early
assessment and appropriate protection.
The chewing surfaces of premolars and molars contain pits and fissures that can be difficult to clean. A fissure sealant is a thin resin coating placed into these grooves to create a smoother, more cleansable surface.
Sealants can be useful for children and adults with deep fissures or an increased risk of decay. They protect the treated surface only; fluoride toothpaste, brushing, interdental cleaning and dietary control remain necessary.
Fluoride strengthens enamel and can help reduce the risk of decay. Professional fluoride applications may be recommended for patients with increased caries risk, sensitivity or other indications.
Preventive fluoride should be part of a wider plan that includes plaque control and management of frequent sugar exposure.
Bruxism is the clenching or grinding of teeth, either during sleep or while awake. It can contribute to tooth wear, chipping, fractured restorations, muscle fatigue, headaches and changes in the way the teeth contact.
Not every worn tooth is caused by bruxism. Acid erosion, abrasive habits and the bite can also contribute, so diagnosis should consider the pattern of wear and the patient’s symptoms.
The way teeth contact during jaw movements can influence how forces are distributed. Canine guidance describes a pattern in which the canine teeth help separate the back teeth during certain movements.
Occlusal relationships are individual, and treatment should not be based on a single idealised bite concept.
The dentist assesses the whole pattern of tooth contacts, wear and symptoms.
A dental splint is a custom appliance designed to protect teeth, redistribute forces or assist in the management of selected jaw-muscle and bite-related problems. Designs can include soft, hard and hybrid guards, as well as Michigan, Tanner, B-splint and NTI appliances.
Different splints serve different purposes. A soft guard may be comfortable but can be unsuitable for some grinding patterns. Hard stabilisation splints allow more precise control of contacts. Partial-coverage appliances such as an NTI require careful case selection and monitoring.
1. Assessment – tooth wear, restorations, jaw muscles, symptoms and the bite are reviewed.
2. Appliance selection – the dentist chooses a design appropriate to the clinical objective.
3. Records – impressions or digital scans are taken.
4. Fitting – the appliance is checked for retention, comfort and contacts.
5. Review – the splint and the teeth are monitored and adjusted where required.
Sensitivity commonly occurs when dentine becomes exposed through gum recession, tooth wear, erosion or other causes. Management may include desensitising toothpastes and mouthwashes, enamel-strengthening products and restorative options.
Persistent or localised sensitivity should be assessed because decay, cracks, pulpal disease or a failing restoration can produce similar symptoms.
Persistent bad breath may arise from oral causes such as plaque, gum disease, tongue coating, dry mouth or dental infection, but non-dental causes are also possible. Masking odour does not address the underlying problem.
A dental assessment and effective oral hygiene are appropriate first steps where bad breath is persistent.
Snoring and sports-related dental protection are separate concerns that may also benefit from individually prescribed oral appliances following appropriate assessment.
No. They protect the treated pits and fissures of the chewing surface. Decay can still occur elsewhere, including between teeth.
A guard can protect teeth and manage forces, but it does not necessarily eliminate the underlying grinding behaviour.
There is no single best design. The correct appliance depends on the symptoms, tooth wear, bite, restorations and the clinical objective.
Common causes include exposed dentine, recession, erosion and wear, but decay, cracks and pulpal problems can also cause sensitivity. Persistent symptoms should be assessed.
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