The mechanism of action of the occlusal splint

1. Mechanical adjustment
The occlusal splint occupies a certain space with its thickness, or with its set (occlusal) face shape, or provides a bio-lever fulcrum, induces the change of the mandibular position and enters the expected therapeutic jaw position. X-ray observations showed that the position of the condyle in the articular socket immediately changed after the occlusal splint was put in, and the surface occlusal splint had a mechanical adjustment effect. The occlusal v-plate can induce the displacement of the condyle, so that the structure of the temporomandibular joint tends to be coordinated, and the symptoms can be improved.

2. The occlusal splint exerts a certain stretching effect on the masticatory muscles by increasing the vertical distance, which has a certain significance for relieving muscle fatigue and improving mouth opening.

3. Neuro-muscle reflex control
Disorders of the temporomandibular joint are mostly caused by the incoordination of the occlusal, masticatory muscles, and/or temporomandibular joints, which lead to various symptoms. For the dentist, the (occlusal) shape is easier to modify and adjust than the joints and masticatory muscles. Among them, the most convenient and safer method is the reversible bite splint treatment. For example, after wearing a stable occlusal splint, its smooth (occlusal) surface can eliminate the mechanical guidance of the cusp bevel to the jaw, and even and extensive (occlusal) contact can change the formation of (occlusal) interference. Abnormal afferent impulse, so that the lower jaw is adjusted to a more suitable new jaw position, which is mainly beneficial to improve the function of the periodontal, masticatory muscles and the internal stress state of the temporomandibular joint. Electromyography studies have shown that after wearing a bite splint, the patient's masticatory muscle posture is significantly reduced in the range of electromyographic activity, the frequency is reduced and the duration is shortened in the resting period, and the activity of the bilateral muscles of the same name tends to be symmetrical and balanced. These are the masticatory muscles. Objective indicators of functional improvement. The improvement of muscle function is beneficial to adjust the joint structure and rationally distribute the stress in the joint.

4. The bite splint may also have a certain mental comfort.

However, some studies believe that the reason for the decrease in pain after wearing the bite splint is not due to changes in jaw position or sensorimotor feedback mechanisms, but due to non-specific behavioral responses. That is to say, the improvement of the symptoms of the oral and jaw system may be the result of the placebo benefits and the natural return of the symptoms over time. The bite plate is only used as a supplementary method for the treatment of localized myalgia or arthralgia.