Dental splints are the most typical dental treatment for temporomandibular disorders. The splints are only used for short periods of time and they don’t produce permanent changes in the teeth or jaw. Dental splints, which are also known as occlusal splints, include bite plates and mouth guards. They are custom-made by a dentist, they are typically made of clear plastic, and they fit between and over the upper and lower teeth. Dental splints can help ease muscle tension and stabilize the jaw. They do so by preventing teeth grinding and the clenching of the jaw that might be causing muscle tension and pain. Splints are worn mostly at night, as people tend to mainly clench or grind their teeth during sleep. 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 or more months
