An occlusal orthotic device, commonly referred to as a diagnostic splint, bite plane, or therapeutic nightguard, is a custom-fabricated, hard acrylic appliance worn over the upper or lower teeth to manage temporomandibular disorders (TMD). According to clinical parameters from the American Academy of Orofacial Pain (AAOP), these devices work by temporarily altering your bite alignment, reducing mechanical strain on the jaw joints, and decreasing the electrical activity of hyperactive chewing muscles. Unlike generic, soft store-bought mouthguards that can actually increase clenching behaviors, a precisely engineered clinical orthotic stabilizes the entire masticatory system to alleviate pain and protect joint structures from permanent wear.
Occlusal splints/orthotic device is part of TMJ Disorders at Virginia Dental Care, located at 915 N Quincy St in Arlington, VA.
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Nearby communities served
Virginia Dental Care serves patients from Arlington, Ballston, Clarendon, Virginia Square, Courthouse, Rosslyn, Shirlington, Crystal City, Pentagon City, Falls Church, Alexandria, and McLean and nearby Northern Virginia communities.
For urgent pain, swelling, trauma, or infection concerns, call the office directly so the team can triage timing and next steps.