The dental bite is a removable resin device that you wear during sleep — or in some cases even day — to protect teeth, relax chewing muscles and reduce damage caused by bruxism and the dysfunctions of temporary-mandibular articulation. It is one of the most used therapeutic tools in dentistry to manage a very widespread condition that often goes unnoticed for years.

Many patients discover that they suffer from bruxism not by the noise of the dig — that often only the partner perceives — but for its effects: worn teeth, jaw pain at awakening, morning headaches, widespread dental sensitivity. The bite does not solve the cause of bruxism, but it protects teeth from damage and relieves muscle symptoms significantly.

At the Studio Odontoiatrico Stere di Lecce, the dental bite is made on the digital footprint acquired with the latest generation intraoral scanner, ensuring precise fit and optimal comfort. The Dr. Nicolò Stefanelli, Dr. Rosanna Renò and the team of the study accompany the patients of Lecce, Salento and all of Puglia in the diagnosis and treatment of bruxism, in Via Giovanni Boccaccio 19 C/D/E, Lecce.

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What is the dental bite

The dental bite — also called occlusal bite, occlusal plaque or splint — is a removable device made of rigid or semi-rigid resin tailored to the patient's arches. It interposes between the upper and lower teeth during sleep, avoiding direct contact between the dental surfaces and absorbing the forces generated by the night grinning.

There are different types of bites, designed for different purposes: bite of protection for night bruxism, bite of repositioning condilare for the dysfunctions of the temporary-mandibular joint, bite of occlusal stabilization. The choice of the most suitable device depends on the clinical diagnosis and symptomatology of the patient.

According to dataHigher Institute of Health, bruxism affects between 10% and 15% of the adult population, with a greater prevalence in subjects with high levels of stress. Many patients are not aware of grinding teeth because bruxism occurs mainly during sleep.

Bite upper and lower bite

The bite can be made for the upper or lower arch, depending on the clinical evaluation of the dentist. The upper bite is generally more stable and better tolerated by patients. The lower bite can be indicated in some specific cases, such as in patients with nocturnal apnee or particular occlusal characteristics. The choice always depends on the individual clinical situation.

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When the dental bite is indicated

Dental bite is indicated in all situations where it is necessary to protect teeth from excessive chewing forces, reduce muscle tension or reposition temporary-mandibular jointing. The most common clinical conditions that require a bite are as follows.

Night Bruxism

Night bruxism is the most common and difficult form to control consciously. The patient grinds or tightens teeth during sleep without realizing it, generating forces that can far exceed those of normal chewing. The bite protects the nail from wear, reduces the load on the joint and relaxes the chewing muscles. Learn more about the page dedicated to bruxismo a Lecce.

Day Bruxism

Day bruxism manifests with the involuntary tightening of teeth during the hours of wakefulness, often in situations of intense concentration or stress. It is more difficult to deal with the bite — that day is uncomfortable to wear — but can be managed with awareness and biofeedback techniques.

Disfunctions of temporary-mandibular articulation

ATM dysfunctions — temporary-mandibular joint — they manifest with pain in the articulation, clicks or creaks during the opening of the mouth, limitation of the mandibular and cephalee movement. The repositioning bite can help reduce the load on the joint and promote a more stable position of the condile.

Dental wear from erosion or abrasion

In patients with significant dental wear caused by bruxism, acid erosion or abrasion, the bite can be used to protect the residual teeth and stabilize occlusion while waiting for more complex prosthetic rehabilitation. Learn more about the page dedicated to Dental sensitivity to Lecce.

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How to make a customized dental bite

The customized dental bite is achieved through a precise clinical path that starts from the diagnosis and ends with the delivery and verification of the device in the mouth.

Visit and diagnosis

The path begins with a full dental visit: the dentist assesses the state of dental wear, the health of temporary-mandibular jointing, the chewing musculature, occlusion and symptomatology reported by the patient. In some cases a digital X-ray may be useful to exclude associated pathologies. Learn more about the page dedicated to digital dental X-ray in Lecce.

Acquisition of the fingerprint

At the Studio Odontoiatrico Stere, the signature of the arches is acquired with the latest generation intraoral scanner, eliminating the discomfort of traditional prints in alginate. The three-dimensional digital model is sent to the dental laboratory for the design and realization of the bite. Learn more about the page dedicated to intraorale scanners in Lecce.

Delivery and verification

The bite is tried in the mouth to verify fit, comfort and occlusal contacts. Any adjustments are made directly in the studio. The patient receives precise instructions on the use, cleaning and maintenance of the device.

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How to use and maintain dental bite

The bite for night bruxism is worn exclusively during sleep, every night. At first it can be slightly uncomfortable or interfere with sleep — is a transient feeling that generally disappears after a few nights of use.

The cleaning of the bite should be done every morning after removal, rinse it with cold water and a soft toothbrush without abrasive toothpaste. It is important to place it in the appropriate case when it is not in use, away from heat sources that could deform it. The bite should be taken to periodic controls because the dentist can verify the wear and correctness of occlusal contacts over time.

How hard a dental bite

The duration depends on the intensity of bruxism, the material used and the home care. A well maintained rigid resin bite can last a few years. In patients with very intense bruxism the occlusal surface can wear faster, requiring early replacement. It is preferable that the bite is used instead of the natural teeth.

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How does the Studio Odontoiatrico Stere work in Lecce

At the Dental Stere Study, located in Via Giovanni Boccaccio 19 C/D/E in Lecce, the dental bite is evaluated and made within a customized diagnostic path. The Dr. Nicolò Stefanelli, Dr. Rosanna Renò and the study team analyze dental wear, muscle and joint symptoms, occlusion and patient habits to choose the most suitable device for any clinical situation.

The digital footprint acquired with intraoral scanner guarantees a precise fit and superior comfort compared to the bites made on traditional footprint. The patient is followed with periodic checks to verify the effectiveness of the treatment and make any adjustments over time.

Studio Stere welcomes patients from Lecce, Salento and Puglia looking for a dentist for dental bite, bruxism, temporary-mandibular dysfunctions, dental wear and widespread dental sensitivity.

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Frequently asked questions about dental bite in Lecce

Does the bite heal bruxism?

No. The bite does not eliminate the cause of bruxism — that is multifactory and often linked to stress — but protects your teeth from damage and reduces muscle and joint symptoms. It is a management tool, not definitive healing.

Does the bite only take at night?

The bite for night bruxism is worn exclusively during sleep. There are other types of devices indicated for day bruxism or for ATM dysfunctions that can predict different use, always indicated by the dentist.

Does the bite hurt at first?

In the first nights it can cause a feeling of discomfort or interfere with sleep. It is a normal response to the presence of a new device in the mouth that generally disappears within a week of regular use.

How much does a dental bite cost in Lecce?

The cost varies according to the type of device and the complexity of the clinical case. During the first visit to the Studio Stere, a detailed and transparent estimate is provided. For information: Scholarship. it.

Can the bite be made on a fingerprint?

Yes. At Studio Odontoiatrico Stere the bite is made on a digital footprint acquired with intraoral scanners, eliminating the discomfort of traditional prints in alginate and ensuring a more precise fit.

How do you clean the dental bite?

With cold water and soft toothbrush every morning after removal. Avoid abrasive toothpastes, hot water and solvents. Always repeat it in the appropriate case when it is not in use.

Where to do the dental bite in Lecce?

At Studio Odontoiatrico Stere, Via Giovanni Boccaccio 19 C/D/E in Lecce, you can book a visit for the evaluation and realization of the tailored dental bite. For information: Scholarship. it.

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At Studio Odontoiatrico Stere you can find a complete range of preventive and curative dental treatments.

If you are looking for a dentist in Lecce for dental bite, bruxism or temporary-mandibular dysfunctions, in Salento or in Puglia, our team is ready to welcome you with expertise, technology and attention to detail. Learn more about studiostere.it and book your visit today.
Article written by Dr. Nicolò Stefanelli – Dentistry

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Article written by Dr. Nicolò Stefanelli – Dentistry