The occlusal bite splint--a noninvasive therapy for occlusal habits and temporomandibular disorders

Traumatic occlusion and occlusal habits, such as clenching and grinding, are the cause of many dental problems. These etiologic factors must be considered and evaluated when treating the dental patient. Early diagnosis and construction of a reversible occlusal appliance is often the most effective, quickest, and least invasive means of therapy. Temporomandibular joint surgery, occlusal equilibration, reconstructive dentistry, orthognathic surgery, orthodontics, and psychotherapy have all been used with success in some cases. Such invasive, and costly, procedures should be considered only after occlusal bite splint therapy has been proven unsuccessful. Occlusal bite splints can be constructed from heat-cured acrylic or light-cured composite. The composite splint is a new material that has minimal distortion, is comfortably worn, and can be constructed in the dental office in less than 30 minutes.