If the TMJ area has been damaged by arthritis or as a result of an accident, surgery may be needed to correct the TMJ and re-establish the proper occlusion. Far more likely, your doctor will recommend a therapy that may include bite splints and specific exercises to keep the teeth from touching and to allow the joint to remain lined up, allowing the jaw’s hinge area to relax. Such therapy increases your comfort by diminishing the TMJ pain. If a splint is prescribed for you, it is very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the amount of time and time of day you must wear it.

If your condition is a Tempromandibular Joint Disorder, you need to wear your splint all the time unless directed otherwise. The splint stops tooth-to-tooth contact and keeps your jaw lined up properly, allowing the muscles and joint area to heal. As this healing takes place and the symptoms gradually disappear, your doctor will adjust your splint to keep your teeth properly aligned. During this period of your therapy, you will begin wearing the splint fewer hours of the day and after a period of time; you will no longer need to wear a splint.

These conditions require you to wear your splint only at night, while sleeping.

Clean the splint by brushing it. Keep it in water and mouthwash solution when it is not in your mouth.