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TMJ & Functional Bite Therapy

Occlusal Splints

Custom occlusal splints are precisely made appliances that reduce the excessive forces placed on the teeth, jaw muscles, and temporomandibular joints. Unlike over-the-counter night guards, each appliance is individually designed and carefully adjusted to improve functional balance while protecting the teeth from grinding and clenching.

Detailed bite analysis and diagnostics are used so every splint provides comfort, stability, and long-term protection — as part of a broader plan rather than a one-size-fits-all device.

Who it's for

  • Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
  • Jaw-muscle pain, fatigue, or TMJ symptoms
  • Protecting teeth and restorations from wear
  • Patients who found store-bought night guards inadequate

What to expect

  1. 1

    Bite analysis

    We assess your bite and jaw function to design the right appliance for your needs.

  2. 2

    Custom fabrication

    Impressions or digital scans are used to make a precisely fitted splint.

  3. 3

    Fitting & adjustment

    The splint is fitted and fine-tuned for comfort and balanced contact.

  4. 4

    Follow-up

    We review how you're responding and adjust as needed over time.

Recovery & aftercare

There is no recovery period — most patients adjust to wearing the splint within a few nights.

Periodic check-ups keep the fit accurate and the appliance protective over the long term.

Common questions

How is this different from a store-bought night guard?
An over-the-counter guard is a generic fit. A custom occlusal splint is individually designed and adjusted to your bite, which improves comfort, function, and long-term protection.
When do I wear it?
Most splints are worn during sleep, when grinding and clenching commonly occur, though some plans call for other wear schedules.

Talk to a specialist about occlusal splints

Whether you're a patient considering treatment or a dentist referring a case, we'll evaluate, plan, and coordinate care from diagnosis through follow-up.

Sources

  1. 1.NIDCR (NIH) — TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders)
  2. 2.Cleveland Clinic — Temporomandibular (TMJ) Disorders

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should always be determined by a qualified dental professional based on your individual condition.