Waking up with jaw pain, persistent headaches and facial pain can be debilitating for those who suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. If you’re among the estimated 20-30% of the population battling these symptoms, you’re not alone. TMJ disorders affect millions worldwide, with women being 50% more likely to develop them than men.
Dental splints represent one of the most effective non-surgical approaches to managing TMJ disorders and the discomfort associated with teeth grinding (bruxism). These custom-made splints for teeth are designed to alleviate pressure on the jaw joint, protect teeth from excessive wear, and provide relief from TMJ-related pain.
In this article, we’ll share real patient experiences with various types of dental splints to help you understand how these devices can transform lives burdened by TMJ pain and dysfunction at TMJ Centre Melbourne.
Understanding Splints for Teeth: What Are They and How Do They Work?
Dental splints (also called occlusal splints or oral appliances) are removable devices typically made from hard acrylic resin, fitted to cover either the upper or lower teeth. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, splints for TMJ are custom-made based on professional impressions of your teeth, ensuring a precise fit that addresses your specific TMJ issues.
The primary functions of dental splints include:
- Preventing damage from teeth grinding and clenching
- Redistributing forces across the jaw to relieve pressure on the TMJ
- Stabilising the jaw joint and surrounding muscles
- Reducing inflammation in the temporomandibular joint
- Holding the jaw in correct alignment/ orthopaedic position to improve jaw function
Depending on your specific condition, your dentist might recommend one of several
Types of Dental Splints for TMJ
1. Stabilisation Splints
These splints typically fit over the teeth and provide a smooth, flat surface for the opposing teeth to contact. They’re designed to reduce pressure on the jaw joints and muscles.
2. Anterior Repositioning Splints
This type of splint moves the lower jaw (mandible) forward into a more optimal position. It’s particularly effective for treating jaw clicking, popping and internal derangements of the TMJ.
3. Anterior Mid-Stop Splints
These splints fit on the upper front teeth and create contact with only the lower front teeth, preventing back teeth from touching and reducing the forces of clenching and grinding.
4. Mandibular Advancement Splints
While primarily used for sleep apnoea treatment, these splints can also help with TMJ issues by bringing the lower jaw forward, relieving pressure on the jaw joint and improving airway space.
Getting fitted for a dental splint at TMJ Centre Melbourne involves a comprehensive assessment of your jaw function, bite relationship, and specific symptoms. Digital impressions or traditional moulds are taken to ensure your splint fits perfectly.
Patient Stories: How Dental Splints Transformed Lives
Case Study 1: Patient JC – Finding Relief with a Stabilization Splint
JC, a 42-year-old marketing executive, had been experiencing chronic headaches for years before being diagnosed with TMJ disorder. “I would wake up every morning with pounding pain in my temples and a sore jaw. I tried everything from pain relief tablets to massage therapy, but nothing provided lasting relief,” JC recalls.
After a comprehensive examination at TMJ Centre Melbourne, JC was fitted with a stabilization splint to wear at night. “I noticed a difference within just a week of wearing the splint. My morning headaches became less frequent, and the intensity decreased significantly. After three months, they were almost completely gone.”
For JC, the stabilisation splint worked by:
- Preventing night-time teeth grinding
- Reducing muscle tension in the jaw and face
- Creating a more balanced bite that distributed forces evenly
“What surprised me most was how my overall quality of life improved,” says JC. “Not only did the headaches subside, but I also found I had more energy throughout the day and could focus better at work. The splints for teeth grinding truly changed my life.”
Case Study 2: Patient BB – Anterior Repositioning Splint for Jaw Clicking
BB, a 35-year-old teacher, had been struggling with jaw clicking and occasional locking for over a decade. “Every time I opened my mouth to eat or yawn, there would be a loud click that was not only embarrassing but also painful,” BB explains. “Sometimes my jaw would even get stuck temporarily, which was terrifying.”
After consulting with TMJ specialists, BB was diagnosed with an anterior disc displacement with reduction. The recommended treatment was an anterior repositioning splint. “The concept was explained to me that my jaw disc was displaced but would ‘reduce’ or go back into place when I opened wide, causing the click. The splint would help keep the disc properly positioned.”
BB was instructed to wear the repositioning splint both day and night initially, except when eating. “It took some getting used to, especially when speaking to my students, but the results were worth it. Within a month, the clicking had significantly decreased, and the episodes of jaw locking stopped completely.”
For BB, the anterior repositioning splint:
- Guided the lower jaw into a position that maintained proper disc alignment
- Reduced inflammation in the joint
- Allowed healing of damaged joint tissues over time
After six weeks, BB transitioned to wearing the splint only at night and continued to experience relief. “It’s been two years now, and I hardly ever experience clicking anymore. I still wear my splint at night as maintenance therapy, and it’s become just part of my routine.”
Case Study 3: Patient EB – From Over-the-Counter to Custom Solutions
EB, a 28-year-old software developer, initially tried to manage stress-induced bruxism with an over-the-counter mouthguard. “I knew I was grinding my teeth at night because my partner could hear it, and I would wake up with a sore jaw and headaches” EB had a stabilisation / grinding splint made with her general dentist.
After a few months of using a stabilisation splint with minimal relief, EB consulted with a TMJ specialist at TMJ Centre Melbourne. ” The dentist explained that I may benefit from modifying my stabilisation splint that prevents the back teeth from touching. The temporary modification immediately improved my pain”
EB was fitted with a custom anterior mid-stop splint, designed to prevent back teeth from touching while maintaining a proper joint position. “The first night wearing my custom splint for teeth was a revelation. It fit perfectly, unlike the bulky stabilisation splint, and I woke up without the usual jaw soreness.”
For EB, the anterior mid-stop splint provided:
- Prevention of tooth-on-tooth contact of the back teeth during grinding
- Reduction in the intensity of muscle contractions
- Long-term protection against tooth wear and enamel damage
“What I’ve learned is that not all dental appliances are created equal,” EB shares. “The custom-made splint from TMJ Centre Melbourne addresses my specific issues, and the follow-up care at the clinic ensures it continues to fit properly as my bite improves. The investment in a proper dental splint has paid off in terms of pain relief and preventing further damage.”
Expert Insights: What Dentists Say About Splints for Teeth Grinding
Dental experts at TMJ Centre Melbourne emphasise that splint therapy should be part of a comprehensive approach to TMJ treatment. According to TMJ specialists, the most successful outcomes occur when splints are used in conjunction with other therapies, potentially including:
- Physical therapy for jaw muscles
- Physical therapy for related neck and back issues
- Stress management techniques
- Dietary modifications
- Exercise and posture improvement
“One common misconception about dental splints is that they’re all the same,” explains Dr Shah from TMJ Centre Melbourne. “Many patients come to us after trying generic solutions without success. We take a holistic approach, looking at how the jaw joint functions in relation to the entire musculoskeletal system.”
Dentists assess several factors when determining the need for dental splints for teeth grinding:
- Signs of wear on teeth – Flattened, chipped, or cracked teeth can indicate bruxism requiring splint therapy
- Muscle tenderness – Pain in the masseter or temporalis muscles often responds well to proper splint use
- Joint sounds / jaw locking– Painful clicking, popping, or grating sounds and jaw locking may necessitate specific types of repositioning splints
- Headache patterns – Certain types of morning headaches suggest night-time clenching requiring specific splint therapy
The experts also caution against DIY approaches to TMJ treatment. Professional fitting, regular adjustments and proper follow-up care are essential for splint therapy success.
Choosing the Right Dental Splint: What You Need to Know
When it comes to dental splints for TMJ disorders, the right choice depends on your specific condition and symptoms. Here’s what patients should understand about their options:
Soft vs. Hard Splints
While soft splints may feel more comfortable initially, hard acrylic splints for teeth typically provide better long-term results for most TMJ conditions. The exception may be for patients with very acute pain who need a gentler introduction to splint therapy.
Hard splints offer several advantages:
- More durable and longer-lasting
- Better at maintaining proper jaw alignment
- More effective for severe bruxism
- Easier to adjust as treatment progresses
At TMJ Centre Melbourne, 3D-fabricated nylon splints are often used as they are lightweight, durable, and more comfortable than traditional acrylic versions.
Adjustment Period
Most patients require some time to adjust to wearing a dental splint. Here’s what to expect:
- First few nights: The splint may feel foreign in your mouth. Some patients report increased salivation or mild discomfort.
- First week: Most initial discomfort subsides as you become accustomed to the feel of the splint.
- 2-4 weeks: This is typically when patients begin noticing improvement in symptoms.
- 3-6 months: Maximum benefit is usually achieved within this timeframe for most TMJ symptoms.
Remember that consistency is key—wearing your splint as directed by your dentist is essential for optimal results.
Maintenance Tips
To keep your splints for teeth grinding functioning properly and hygienic:
- Clean it daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (not toothpaste, which can be abrasive)
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water before and after use
- Store in its protective case when not in use
- Avoid hot water, which can warp the material
- Bring your splint to all dental appointments for evaluation and adjustments
- Replace when signs of wear appear (typically every 3-5 years, depending on the type)
Health Fund Considerations
Dental splints for TMJ disorders may be partially covered by dental or health fund extras when deemed medically necessary. At TMJ Centre Melbourne, staff can help patients navigate health fund claims and may offer payment plans for out-of-pocket expenses. Some patients may also qualify for early release of superannuation to cover treatment costs through services like SuperCare.
Before and After TMJ Treatment Improvements
Before Treatment: Symptoms often include the following
- Painful clicking or popping with jaw movement
- Limited jaw opening
- Jaw locking (either unable to open or close properly)
- Pain with chewing
- Referred pain to the head, face, neck, and ears
After Diagnosis and Targeted Treatment: The following outcomes are expected
- Reduced or eliminated joint sounds
- Improved range of motion
- Decreased frequency of locking episodes
- Comfortable chewing ability
- Reduction in referred pain
Finding Your Path to TMJ Pain Relief
The journey to finding relief from TMJ pain is often personal and multifaceted. As demonstrated by the patient experiences shared in this article, splints for teeth can play a crucial role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Whether you’re dealing with jaw clicking, chronic jaw pain, face pain, and headcahes or teeth grinding, a properly fitted dental splint—selected based on your specific condition—can provide significant relief. For many patients at TMJ Centre Melbourne, splint therapy has been transformative, allowing them to eat, speak and sleep without pain for the first time in years.
If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms, don’t wait until the condition worsens. Early intervention typically leads to better outcomes and may prevent the need for more invasive treatments. Take the first step towards relief by consulting with TMJ specialists who can assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate mouth splints for teeth grinding for your needs.
At TMJ Centre Melbourne, we combine dental expertise with chiropractic care to provide a unique, holistic approach to treating TMJ disorders. Our team has over 50 years of combined experience in helping patients find relief from jaw pain, headaches and related symptoms.
To book a consultation or learn more about how dental splints could help with your TMJ pain, contact us today at TMJ Centre Melbourne or call (03) 9417 4038.Don’t let TMJ pain control your life—take the first step towards lasting relief with custom dental splints for teeth grinding tailored to your specific needs.