What exactly does a splint do? - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

ticcel · 11-30-2007, 11:03 AM

Is it mostly to prevent grinding, or does it help with other things?

I've had a pop on the left side of my jaw as long as I can remember, but it never caused any problems until this past year, or at least, that's what I thought. Now I think all the migraines that I thought were sinus-related were actually TMD.

My symptoms are, when I either eat the wrong thing (too crunchy, or too chewy), or open my mouth wide enough to hear my jaw pop too often, whether it's eating or laughing, I get a sick headache and ear pain on the left side. Advil and Aleve do absolutely nothing, I basically just have to wait it out. My dentist told me to just watch what I eat, and if I keep having problems, he might fit me for a night guard. I'm pretty sure I don't grind my teeth at night though, because usually my headaches are gone by morning. I almost never wake up with one, or with jaw pain.

Does a splint help in this kind of case, or does it just work like a night guard to protect against clenching/grinding?

Thelma-Louise · 12-01-2007, 12:44 AM

There are basically 2 types of splints - some to reposition the lower jaw so the disc and condyles can funtion properly and others stablize or balance the bite to alleviate muscle fatigue. There are several designs and makers of splints based on the 2 types. I can't recall the site name - maybe Johnson dental - not sure - that lists most of them and describes their purpose and design. Some splints are worn on top or during the day only and others are worn on the bottom or at night only - its really up to the dentist treating you to determine which may help you the most although some just prefer a specific type and treat all patients with the same type. Most splints though are customized and/or adjusted by the dentist to allow for individual requirements as well.