TMJ Treatment at Night: How a Custom Splint Works While You Sleep

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  • By Courthouse Art of Dentistry
  • June 20, 2025

    • If you suffer from jaw pain, frequent headaches, or a clicking noise when you open your mouth, you may be dealing with TMJ. This condition affects the joint that connects your jaw to your skull and can lead to discomfort, limited movement, and chronic tension. One of the most effective and non-invasive ways to manage TMJ symptoms is by using a custom splint.
     

    Understanding TMJ

     

    TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the hinge-like joint that connects your jawbone to your skull, located on each side of your head in front of your ears. It allows you to perform essential movements such as talking, chewing, and yawning. When the joint becomes inflamed or misaligned, it can lead to a condition known as TMJ disorder or TMD. This can cause symptoms like jaw pain, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, clicking or popping sounds, and even headaches or earaches. TMJ disorders can result from various factors including injury, arthritis, jaw misalignment, or teeth grinding.
     

    What Is a Custom TMJ Splint?

     

    A TMJ splint is a custom-made oral appliance, similar in appearance to a mouthguard, that is worn over your upper or lower teeth. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, a custom splint is designed specifically for your bite, ensuring a comfortable fit and optimal function.
     

    How Does a TMJ Splint Work While You Sleep?

     

    When worn overnight, a custom splint:
     

    • Prevents teeth grinding and clenching by creating a protective barrier between your teeth
    • Stabilizes the jaw joint to reduce tension and allow muscles to relax
    • Repositions the jaw slightly if necessary to relieve pressure from misalignment
    • Promotes healing by minimizing the nightly strain on the joint and surrounding tissues


    By reducing muscle overuse and joint compression, a custom splint can provide significant symptom relief over time.
     

    What to Expect from Treatment

     

    At Courthouse Art of Dentistry, we start with a thorough evaluation of your jaw function, bite alignment, and symptoms. If a TMJ diagnosis is confirmed, we’ll take precise impressions of your teeth to craft a splint that fits your mouth perfectly.
     

    Patients typically begin to feel relief within the first few weeks of wearing their splint consistently at night. We also provide guidance on daytime habits and jaw exercises to support your long-term recovery.
     

    Sleep Your Way to Relief

     

    A custom TMJ splint offers a simple yet effective solution for managing jaw pain and tension without the need for medication or invasive procedures. By addressing the root cause of your nighttime symptoms, you can wake up feeling rested and free from pain.
     

    Schedule a consultation with Courthouse Art of Dentistry to learn how a custom TMJ splint can help you sleep more comfortably and wake up without pain. Visit our office in Arlington, Virginia, or call (571) 556-8429 to book an appointment today.