Mouthguards and Occlusal Splints

An occlusal splint or orthotic device is a specially designed mouth guard for people who grind their teeth, have a history of pain and dysfunction associated with their bite or temporomandibular joints (TMJ), or have completed a full mouth reconstruction. An occlusal splint is custom-made using detailed study models on an instrument called an articulator that simulates the movement of the jaws. Occlusal splints are routinely used to treat TMJ and masticatory disorders like bruxism 6. They can be hard or soft removable splints covering the teeth. They have been used to eliminate prevent wear and mobility of teeth and treat disorders of the TMJ.9