Guardians of the temporomandibular joint: The occlusal splints- an overview

Abstract

Management of temporomandibular joint disorders requires a multifaceted approach. Splint therapy is one among the preferred treatment modalities. There are various schools of thought pertaining to splint therapy which is often challenging to both dentists and patients. Hence a thorough knowledge regarding splints and its application proves to be of great importance in proper treatment planning. Occlusal splint therapy is a non- invasive, reversible and conservative type of treatment recommended for parafunctional habit, unstable occlusion, stress related pain symptoms, occlusal interferences, in extensive restorative treatment and also other masticatory muscle disorders. Its function has been proved to reduce appropriate symptoms by altering the occlusal equilibrium, distributing forces associated with parafunctional activities and normalizing periodontal ligament proprioception. This article enumerates various aspects of splint therapy such as types of splints, their uses, functions, design, fabrication and its modification with a clear insight on the physiologic and therapeutic effects of various splints. This knowledge gives way to the selection, designing and application of a specific occlusal splint which would help in achieving appropriate and successful treatment planning for the patient.