TMJ Splint Therapy in Riverside, CA

If you're experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or a clicking sound when opening your mouth, you may be suffering from TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder), commonly referred to as TMJ disorder. At Van Cao Dentistry in Riverside, CA, we offer custom TMD/TMJ splint therapy to relieve jaw tension, reduce inflammation, and restore normal jaw function—without the need for invasive treatment.

Splint therapy involves wearing a specially designed oral appliance, typically at night, that helps reposition your jaw, prevent teeth grinding, and alleviate pressure on the temporomandibular joints. Our dentists, Dr. Hon Van Cao and Dr. Christina Cao, provide fully customized splints tailored to your jaw alignment, bite, and specific TMD symptoms.

A TMJ splint (also known as a nightguard or occlusal splint) is a removable appliance made of durable acrylic that fits over your upper or lower teeth. It is designed to:

• Reduce muscle tension and joint strain
  
  
• Prevent clenching and grinding (bruxism)
  
  
• Promote proper jaw alignment
  
  
• Protect teeth from excessive wear

At Van Cao Dentistry, we use digital impressions and precise jaw evaluations to craft splints that are both comfortable and effective. Unlike over-the-counter guards, our custom splints are made specifically for your bite and TMD diagnosis.

Splint therapy is a conservative, non-surgical solution that offers relief from many TMD symptoms, including:

• Jaw pain or stiffness
  
  
• Headaches or facial soreness
  
  
• Clicking or popping noises in the jaw
  
  
• Locking of the jaw joint
  
  
• Teeth grinding or worn-down enamel
  
  
• Neck, shoulder, or ear pain

Used consistently, splint therapy can reduce inflammation in the joint and help prevent long-term damage to your teeth and jaw structure.

You may benefit from TMD/TMJ splint therapy if you’ve been diagnosed with:

• Myofascial pain (muscle-related jaw discomfort)
  
  
• Internal derangement of the joint (e.g., disc displacement)
  
  
• Bruxism (nighttime teeth grinding)
  
  
• Bite imbalances due to missing or misaligned teeth

If you’re unsure of the source of your symptoms, we recommend starting with a full TMJ Therapy evaluation. Our Riverside dental team will assess your bite, joint health, and symptoms to determine if splint therapy or a combination of treatments is most effective.

Some patients may also benefit from supportive options like Botox for TMJ or occlusal adjustments depending on the severity of their case.

Our Approach to TMD Relief

At Van Cao Dentistry, we take a personalized, whole-patient approach to TMD/TMJ therapy. That means we don’t just hand you a nightguard—we evaluate the root cause of your symptoms and develop a plan to support lasting relief. Your care may include:

• Custom-fitted night or daytime splints
  
  
• Monitoring for changes in bite or joint health
  
  
• Bite assessments and occlusal evaluations
  
  
• Collaboration with your medical provider if systemic issues are contributing to TMD

We also educate you on at-home strategies to reduce symptoms, such as jaw exercises, posture correction, and anti-inflammatory diet tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do I need to wear a TMJ splint?: Most patients wear the splint nightly for several months. The duration depends on the severity of your TMD and your response to treatment.
   
   
2. Is a TMJ splint the same as a nightguard?: While similar, TMJ splints are more customized than basic nightguards and are designed specifically to address jaw joint positioning and muscle strain.
   
   
3. Will splint therapy cure my TMD?: Splint therapy can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent worsening, but ongoing care and bite monitoring may be needed to manage TMD long-term.
   
   
4. Can I use an over-the-counter nightguard?: Store-bought guards are not customized and may make symptoms worse. A professionally fitted splint ensures proper alignment and therapeutic benefit.
   
   
5. Does insurance cover TMD/TMJ splint therapy?: Some dental insurance plans cover splint therapy, especially when it’s medically necessary. Visit our insurance page or call us to verify your coverage.

Get Relief with Custom TMJ Splint Therapy in Riverside, CA

If you're tired of living with jaw pain, tension headaches, or the effects of teeth grinding, custom TMD/TMJ splint therapy may be the solution you've been looking for. At Van Cao Dentistry, we combine precision diagnostics with compassionate care to help you feel better and protect your long-term oral health. Contact us today to schedule your TMD consultation.