Splints mainly perform either repositioning or stabilization. Mandible repositioning splints or anterior bite planes are usually worn 24 hours a day and attempt to pull the lower jaw forward. Stabilization splints are worn over the teeth, and concentrate mainly on preventing bruxism, or teeth grinding.
As you can see, splints are mostly just mouthguards with a very specific role. They permit the muscles to relax, reducing stress in the jaw and maxillofacial zones. If the assigned splint is for repositioning purposes, the goal is primarily bite adjustment. Malocclusion, or bad bite, can make the whole mouth dysfunctional.
An important note is that TMJ disorder is still medically mysterious, and covers a wide range of symptoms and treatments. For more, contact our expert in TMJ in Thousand Oaks.