Splint therapy for TM disorders

Dental treatment is sometimes used to treat temporomandibular (TM) disorders. Splints (biteplates, mouthguards), which are custom-made by a dentist, fit between the upper and lower teeth. They may be used for short periods of time to ease muscle tension and stabilize the jaw. Splints are worn mostly at night, because people tend to clench or grind their teeth during sleep.

In cases of disc displacement and muscle spasm, you may be advised to wear a splint during the day and at night for about 2 weeks, and then only at night during times of stress and pain. It may not be easy to get used to wearing and caring for your splint, but it is an important treatment that may last for 3 months or more.

Many people who have TM disorders find splint therapy helpful for treating pain and muscle tension. Doctors do not agree on the effectiveness or safety of other, irreversible dental TM disorder treatments. The National Institutes of Health advises against such measures.¹

Citations

1. Management of Temporomandibular Disorders. NIH Technology Assessment Statement (1996 April 29–May 1). Available online: http://text.nlm.nih.gov/nih/ta/www/018txt.html.