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 over 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 approximately 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.
Avoid dental treatments that are irreversible and cause permanent changes to the teeth or jaw, including:
- Braces (orthodontics) to straighten the teeth.
- Restorations (crowns or bridges).
- Shaving down the teeth (occlusal adjustment) to balance the bite.
- Long-term use of a splint. Ask your dentist about how long to use your splint.
Many people who have TM disorders find splint therapy helpful for treating pain and muscle tension. Health professionals do not agree on the effectiveness or safety of other, irreversible dental TM disorder treatments. The United States National Institutes of Health advises against such measures.1
| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH Carrie Henley | Last Updated: May 4, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry | |
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