Many people suffer from clicking of the jaw joint, headaches, earaches, limited opening, tenderness of the jaw joints or muscles, or dull aching facial pain. These people may suffer from problems related to the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) or muscles. These problems are collectively referred to as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) when the muscles and joints are not functioning properly. The causes of many of these problems are not well understood; therefore there are many theories about the diagnosis and treatment for them. The most common and best treatment to date is the hard acrylic bitesplint. This is conservative reversible appliance that has shown great success rates. The appliance is intended to be worn over night or when the problem is occurring most, and it obtains relief in most circumstances. This same appliance is often worn in order to prevent excessive damage and wear to the teeth in cases where the patient grinds their teeth.
