Splints
Splints are therapeutic appliances designed to support jaw alignment and improve overall bite comfort, providing relief for TMJ disorders.
What AreSplints?
Splints are removable oral appliances designed to help stabilize the bite and reduce strain on the jaw. They are commonly recommended as part of a comprehensive approach to managing jaw-related concerns and supporting overall oral function.
Each splint is custom-made to ensure comfort, proper fit, and effective support.
Benefits of Splints
Discover how a custom splint can help relieve jaw pain and improve your overall bite function.
Bite Support
Splints help support proper jaw positioning and reduce uneven pressure on the bite.
Jaw Comfort
By minimizing strain on the jaw muscles and joints, splints can help improve comfort.
Functional Stability
Splints may be used as part of a broader treatment plan to support long-term oral function.
Using and Caring forYour Splint
Proper use and care are important to ensure effectiveness and comfort.
General guidelines include:
- Wear your splint as instructed
- Clean it regularly following provided instructions
- Store it in its case when not in use
- Contact our office if the splint becomes uncomfortable or damaged
FAQs
Common questions about splints and TMJ therapy.
A splint (also called an occlusal splint or stabilization splint) is a custom-made oral appliance designed to improve the alignment of your jaw and reduce stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Unlike nightguards that primarily protect teeth, splints are therapeutic devices that help treat jaw disorders.
While both are worn in the mouth, they serve different purposes. Nightguards protect teeth from grinding damage. Splints are designed to treat jaw problems by repositioning the jaw into a more optimal position, relieving muscle tension, and allowing the TMJ to heal.
Treatment duration varies depending on your condition. Some patients wear splints only at night, while others may need them during the day as well. Your orthodontist will create a personalized treatment plan and adjust it based on your progress.
Splints are highly effective at managing TMJ symptoms and allowing the joint to heal. Many patients experience significant, lasting improvement. However, some may need ongoing splint therapy to maintain results, especially if the underlying cause (like stress or misalignment) persists.
Custom-fitted splints are designed for comfort. There may be an adjustment period of a few days to a week as you get used to wearing it. If discomfort persists, we can make adjustments to improve the fit.
Still have questions?
Contact Us
Support Jaw Comfort and Function
Don't let TMJ pain affect your quality of life. Schedule a consultation to learn how a custom splint can help.
Contact us
Experiencing jaw pain or TMJ discomfort? Contact us to discuss how a custom splint can provide relief and improve your quality of life.