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 National Institutes of Health advises against such measures.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.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here.
