How to clean the dental splint?

In recent years, the use of dental splints has become increasingly widespread in dental treatment. This plastic or resin device tends to deteriorate over time, losing its initial colour and properties if not properly cared for.

Do you know how to clean your splint so that it continues to work and looks as good as it did on the first day? Whatever type of splint you have, there are a series of tips to take care of it and extend its useful life. Discover them!

What is a dental splint?

The dental splint is a device made of acrylic resin or different plastic materials, transparent and of variable hardness. It is custom-made for each patient, so that it fits perfectly in the upper arch, the lower arch, or both, depending on the dental treatment.

For the design of the dental splint, the patient goes to the clinic where the dentist makes moulds of his or her teeth. These moulds are sent to the prosthodontist, who is the person in charge of making the corresponding splints with the exact measurements.

The end result is a splint that fits perfectly on the teeth, transparent in colour and highly resistant. However, the material of which it is made tends to deteriorate with use, as it comes into contact with the humidity in the mouth, certain types of food and products used in some treatments.

What treatments involve the use of splints?

The splint is the adjunct currently used to treat various dental problems. They can vary in shape, thickness, hardness and material depending on their function.

The main dental treatments for which splints are used include the following:

• Orthodontic maintenance splint.
• Bleaching splint.
• Bruxism unloading splint.
• Mouthguards.
• Retainer or surgical splint.

How is the dental splint cleaned?

The dental splint is an element of daily use that is in contact with the teeth and gums. Inside it, saliva, food and other substances can accumulate, which, if not removed, can encourage the multiplication of bacteria and microorganisms that live inside the oral cavity.

It is very important to maintain proper care of the dental splint, not only to avoid the appearance of halitosis and the development of oral infections, but also to prolong the useful life of this device. To do this, it is enough to dedicate a few minutes a day to cleaning and maintenance of the dental splint, in a very simple and quick way.

Cleaning of the dental splint step by step

There are special brushes for cleaning dentures, removable orthodontic appliances and dental splints. These brushes with double brush heads of different sizes and ergonomic handles make cleaning easier and more comfortable, reaching all nooks and crannies.

For cleaning of the splint, we recommend the KIN Prosthetic BrushKIN Prosthesis Brush, specially designed for deep cleaning of dentures, orthodontic appliances and dental splints. Use this brush every morning to properly clean the dental splint, wetting it with cold water and applying a little toothpaste or neutral soap without perfume or alcohol.

Rub both the inside and the outside of the splint with the brush without exerting excessive pressure. Incidentally, it should be used in all the small hollows where saliva residue tends to accumulate.

Finish by rinsing it well under cold running water, and the splint is ready for further use.

Don't forget to disinfect the splint every week. Use KIN Orthonetthe descaling solution that allows quick, easy and thorough cleaning of removable appliances, keeping them shiny and odour-free.

Just pour, once a week, a quarter of the contents of the solution into a container or glass directly without diluting it, completely submerge the dental splint and leave it to act for 15-30 minutes. Rinse the dental splint with plenty of water before inserting it in the mouth. It is advisable to rinse with the help of a toothbrush soft to facilitate cleaning.

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Simply place the splint in a glass of warm water, pour in the tablet and leave it to act for a minimum of 10 minutes or overnight. Rinse it well when you finish so that you can use it regularly.

Tips for the maintenance of dental splints

Just as important as the cleaning of the dental splint is its correct use and conservation. If you want to keep your splint as good as new for longer, follow these tips:

How to store the splint?

When not in use, keep the splint as dry as possible in a protective box. Never store it wet. You can leave it to dry on a sterile surface where it is not at risk of getting dirty, or use a paper towel to remove any moisture before storing it.

Hygiene prior to splinting

Remember to always brush your teeth before you put the brace on. Also floss your teeth to make sure you have removed all food debris and plaque.

It is also important to handle the splint with clean hands, moistening it before fitting to prevent it from sticking to the teeth and palate.

Frequent damage to the dental splint

Although the splint material is hard, rubbing against metal objects can damage the splint. To avoid possible damage, handle it only with your fingers, and try to clean it with a special soft-bristled brush.

The presence of any scratches or holes could harbour bacteria that are virtually impossible to remove during cleaning. If you notice that the splint is starting to deteriorate, ask your dentist about the possibility of replacing it.

Dental splint and heat sources

In order to give the final shape to the dental splint, a large amount of heat is usually applied, which makes the material completely malleable. For this reason it is important to keep the splint away from any source of heat, preventing it from deforming and losing its functionality.

Never wash it in hot water or leave it in direct sunlight to prevent yellowing.

With this simple care, and a correct cleaning of the dental splint, it will last much longer to fulfil its function perfectly.