A TMJ splint can be one of several different types of
orthodontic devices that are used to help relieve the pain
associated with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). TMJ splints
are typically mouth guards that are fitted by a dentist and worn
over the top or bottom teeth. These mouth guards are normally made
of hard acrylic and can be worn at night, during the day, or
continually depending on the needs of a particular person. It is
important that the TMJ splint is fitted properly to avoid
aggravating the patient’s jaw strain.
TMJ causes pain in the temporomandibular joint, located in
front of the ears on each side of the head. There are many
different causes of TMJ pain, including arthritis and muscle
fatigue that results when the teeth are clenched or ground
constantly. The vast majority of TMJ cases can be managed without
significant medical intervention.
A TMJ splint is an artificial bite that helps protect the
teeth and jaw from damage and strain. Nightguard, bite guard, and
mouthpiece are other common names for the splint. All of these
devices are the same. The only difference for dental professionals
is when they are worn; a nightguard, for instance, is worn only at
night, while a splint is never removed from a person’s mouth.
Ad
When making a TMJ splint, a dentist will begin by making an
impression of the person’s mouth by using dental putty or similar
material. The impression is then allowed to set before being sent
to a lab where a custom splint is made. It can take several weeks
for the TMJ splint to be made by the lab and fitted and adjusted by
the dentist.
The most effective TMJ splints are made and fitted by
dentists. A dentist is able to sand a splint to ensure that it will
be comfortable and effective for the patient. A TMJ splint can also
be purchased over the counter or through the mail. Boil and bite
splints can be purchased in stores and are made of a thermo plastic
material that molds more closely to a patient’s teeth after being
boiled and placed in the mouth. It is possible that ready-made and
boil and bite splints will not fit as well as those made by a
dentist.
Any device that is worn in the mouth for prolonged periods of
time must be cleaned routinely to avoid infection. A TMJ splint can
become warped if it is not stored properly, resulting in increased
pain. The dentist will provide care and cleaning instructions for
the splint and may recommend follow-up exams to monitor a patient’s
progress.
"Get
15%discount on your first
3 orderswith us"
Use the following coupon
"FIRST15"
Other samples, services and questions:
When you use PaperHelp, you save one valuable — TIME
You can spend it for more important things than paper writing.
