A dental splint is a removable device worn over the teeth to help manage and treat jaw disorders, including TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders), bruxism (teeth grinding), and other occlusal (bite) issues. By holding the jaw in a more favorable position, splints can alleviate stress on the jaw joints and muscles, thereby reducing pain and preventing tooth damage.
Dental splints are beneficial for individuals experiencing:
If you’re dealing with any of these symptoms, a consultation with our skilled dentist can help determine if a dental splint is right for you.
The duration for which you need to wear your splint varies depending on the severity of your symptoms and the specific condition being treated. Some patients may need to wear their splints all the time, while others might only need to wear them at night.
Both devices are worn over the teeth, but they serve different purposes. A night guard primarily protects the teeth from grinding and clenching during sleep. A dental splint, on the other hand, helps reposition the jaw to relieve joint stress and pain, which a simple night guard does not do.