The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which links the skull to the jawbone while being a critical joint in the human body, is also believed to cause serious health problems. TMJ disorder is characterized by pain, tenderness, swelling, and other symptoms around the face and jaw. TMJ disorder is quite common, and based on the severity of the pain and discomfort that a person is experiencing; it can be easily managed and treated. At De Lucs Dental, LLC, we offer splint therapy to treat TMJ disorders.
The TMJ splints refer to a mouthguard, bite plate, or other kinds of oral appliances prescribed to reduce the pain and discomfort of TMJ disorders. These devices can be either hard or soft and can conceal a few or all of the teeth.
TMJ splints, when worn, allow jaw muscles and ligaments to relax, therefore preventing the grinding and clenching of teeth or other jaw reactions that may cause TMJ pain and discomfort.
Besides teeth grinding, it’s assumed that TMJ disorders can result from either an overbite or underbite. This is believed to put added pressure on the jawbone. However, using a splint can help manipulate the bite into an ideal position and ease the tension in the jaw.
Another benefit of splint therapy is that they prevent teeth from becoming worn down and help minimize the adverse side effects of bruxism.
There are two kinds of TMJ splints that can be hard or soft and safeguard all the teeth.
Stabilization Splints
These splints prevent teeth from grinding and clenching and provide a harmonious bite surface with the jaw joint. Stabilization splints are designed to cover all the teeth and are typically worn just at night.
Repositioning Splints
Repositioning splints are planned to correct bite occlusions, and they have to be worn twenty-four hours a day. They reposition the jaw for ideal alignment and include indentations that do not allow your teeth to glide across the occlusal plane.
While splints effectively decrease conditions like teeth grinding and bite occlusions, it is vital to note that they are not necessarily a permanent cure for them. That’s where we may recommend advanced treatments like orthodontics, special dental work, or even surgery.Â
For more information on splint therapy, how it works, and other alternatives for treating and managing TMJ disorder, visit our office, De Lucs Dental, LLC, at 8630 Fenton Street, Suite 204, Silver Spring, MD 20910. You can also reach Dentist in Silver Spring, MD at 301-587-8081 | 301-587-8082.Â
8630 Fenton St, Ste 204, Silver Spring, MD 20910
