Mechanism of work of tmj splint.

Basically it causes unloading of joint.what happens....in tmj problem most commonly there is pain associated with clicking sound which is called as disc displacement with reduction and in later stage there is pain which is not associated with clicking sound  but with less mouth opening which is called as disc displacement without reduction. When we give splint therapy in such cases there is decrease in inflammation in tmj disc (small layer in joint) and also relaxation of muscle called lateral pterygoid which is acting around the joint being responsible for pain. It will take time to recover from this pain..If there is increase in pain after certain time or if pain is not relieved by this therapy after a duration,further investigation is required .

follow up

splints r given in cases of tmj to occlude the teeth so that some amount of rest is there on the joint as well as muscles it is generally worn in night becoz sometimes we have habit of clenching teeth in the night at a subconcious level. If something is wrong or going towards bad during treatment for tmj disorder then the first sign is increase in pain n discomfort

go for physiotherapy along with jaw exercises.