Occlusal splint for jaw pain and bruxism
A custom-made splint, usually worn at night: when it helps, and what it can and can’t do.
An occlusal splint (also called a stabilisation splint or night guard) is a custom-made device in hard material that covers the teeth of one arch. It is usually worn at night.
It is one of the most widely used treatments for temporomandibular disorders and bruxism. It isn’t a universal answer: we recommend it after a diagnosis, as part of a plan, not as a first reflex for any jaw pain.
When it helps
- it protects the teeth and dental work from the forces of grinding and clenching in sleep
- it can reduce muscle pain and tired jaws in the morning
- it can reduce the load on the joint in some joint problems
What it doesn’t do
- it doesn’t stop bruxism: the muscles keep working, but the teeth are protected
- it doesn’t “move” the jaw or change the bite: a stabilisation splint is reversible; we don’t use it to permanently change the jaw position
- it doesn’t treat pain that doesn’t come from the muscles or the joint (for example trigeminal neuralgia)
How it is made
- The diagnosis, at the orofacial pain consultation.
- An impression or digital scan of the teeth and a record of how the jaws meet.
- The splint is made in the laboratory, to measure.
- Fitting and adjustment: the splint must be stable, comfortable and touch evenly.
- Check-ups after a few weeks, then periodically, to review and adjust it.
Looking after it
- clean it in the morning with a toothbrush and cold or lukewarm (not hot) water and keep it dry in its case
- bring it to every check-up
- tell us about new pain, a feeling that your bite has changed, or a crack in the splint
For other kinds of splints (retention, whitening, sports guards), see Dental mouthguard.