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Dental or Orthodontic Splints are devices that are used when patients suffer from certain types of dental problems. These problems include TMJ or TemporoMandibular Joint disorder, common snoring, sleep apnea, and teeth grinding (bruxism).

In orthodontics, a “splint” is designed to fit on top of the upper or lower teeth. Treatment varies based on each patient’s individualize needs and is most often used to stabilize the teeth and/or jaws to alleviate discomfort. A TMJ splint may be used prior to placement of braces to help alleviate discomfort if the problem is a result of a bad bite or be used during orthodontics to open the bite. It is also used upon completion of orthodontic treatment if a patient is neurologically prone to grinding. In this scenario, the splint may also act as a retainer.Read More

Faith Hill proudly displayed her new smile with ceramic braces at the 2013 Grammy Awards. They weren’t noticeable on TV but the photographers were able to clearly capture her tooth colored braces that she has been wearing for about seven months. She first mention the fact she was undergoing orthodontic treatment in Nov 2012 in an interview with country radio station KNIX 102.5.

Why is Faith Hill Wearing Braces?

As a kid, Faith forgot to wear her retainers when orthodontic treatment was completed. Let this be a lesson for all our patients at Affiliated Orthodontics. Once braces are removed, it takes time for the gum and bone to fill in around the teeth and stabilize in their new position. During this time period, patients are instructed to wear their retainers full time 6 months to a year, based on your treatment plan. After this stabilizing time, patients are instructed to continue to wear retainers at night.

Did You Know Teeth Move as Part of the Natural Aging Process?

Whether you undergo orthodontic treatment or not, teeth move throughout life as part of the natural aging process. The amount of movement is different with every person. Some experience more movement than others. We recommend that all our patients wear their retainers a few nights a week indefinitely to maintain your beautiful smile throughout life.

Yes – retainers are easy to forget to wear like Faith Hill… but definitely less of a hassle than going through orthodontic treatment a second time as an adult. So don’t forget to wear your retainers as prescribed and contact our office or an orthodontist in your area if you break or lose them to prevent you teeth moving in the future….

If you went through treatment as a kid, didn’t wear your retainers, and you teeth have moved, feel free to contact Affiliated Orthodontics for a complimentary new patient exam at our location in the Peoria AZ area.