Non-Surgical Solution to TMJ Pain

We make it our mission at Walker Square Dental Associates to seek out dental procedures that are the least intrusive and provide the most effective results for our patients.  The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) can have a variety of conditions that affect the jaw muscles and facial nerves.  Dr. B. James Rogge often recommends occlusal splint therapy as an initial treatment for temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

What is Splint Therapy?

You probably already know what a splint is but typically don’t think of anything but sports when you hear it. Other words for oral splints that you may have heard of are mouth guard, night guard and bite plate.  These are typically made of hard or soft plastic and can be worn on the upper or bottom teeth, depending on your circumstances.

Types of Splints

There are many types of splints, including stabilization splints and repositioning splints.  Stabilization splints are used to prevent clenching.  Repositioning splints are used to realign by pulling the lower jaw forward.  These are typically worn 24 hours a day.

Why Dr. Rogge Believes Splint Therapy Works

• Again, just like a traditional splint for a broken leg, the splint is used to allow the muscles and ligaments in your jaw to relax.  The splint helps relieve tension in the muscles caused by clenching, bruxism or other jaw problems.
• If you happen to be a patient that grinds your teeth, splints may protect your teeth from further wear and damage which can prevent pain and sensitivity.
• If your bite is off, the splint will help adjust the bite for a more optimal position and relax your muscles, allowing them to rest.

There are many people who clench their teeth, whether they know it or not.  Sometimes this happens in the middle of the night when they are sleeping and they don’t even realize it but still wake with soreness or pain.  It’s always good to have Dr. Rogge and his staff take a look at your bite and the wear on your teeth to determine if you are a good candidate for splint therapy in Dover.  For current patients, feel free to ask about this at your next cleaning and check-up.  For new patients, call us today to set up a consultation.  Our goal is to make sure you are pain-free and splint therapy is just one simple solution we can look into for you.