Soft Bruxism (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)
Soft Bruxism Splints can be constructed as a first line simple emergency treatment for patients with symptoms of pain dysfunction syndrome. The splint will produce symptomatic relief in a significant percentage of patients but is not normally used as the sole treatment. It may absorb occlusal forces by virtue of its soft nature. It can also act as a habit breaker (cognitive awareness theory) and in common with the other splints described, it will remove the possibility of the patient occluding in their centric occlusion. Despite the unsophisticated design, it is possible to provide temporary relief, which is all that some patients will require for long term improvement.
On occasion, these splints can exacerbate rather than alleviate the condition, as wearing such an appliance may cause a even greater degree of parafunction. Therefore careful monitoring is essential. The splint is generally worn at night, and if successful, the beneficial effects will have become apparent within 3-6 weeks.