Dental splints have been in use since 1700s by dentists for maxillofacial fractures. They've also been used extensively for the treatment of headaches arising out of the temporo mandibular joint. However, due to advancements in the field of cosmetic dentistry, in bridge and crown work and craniofacial methods of operation, there has been a decline in the use of dental splints.

Dental splints in fractures help in the recovery of the injured portion by reducing the pressure and tension of the region and keeping in place the fractured bones and allowing least movement in the oral cavity. Their role in correcting a temporo mandibular headache is important and without the application of any surgery and external operation, a splint can help you correct the headaches arising out of them. A simple mouthpiece is fitted into the lower and the upper jaws of tooth or to the rear jaw which comprises of molars.

This helps in reducing the tension in the bite and helps easy movement and adjustment of your jaw. It also minimizes headache by relaxing the jaw muscles and letting the upper jaw ease onto the lower so as to optimize comfort for the jaw and reduce strain for the muscle. Thus, the bite no longer remains a factor for the headache. It also helps reduce pressure from the jaws as dental splints create a gap between the upper and the lower jaws, thereby healing the stressed muscles.

Dental splints are however hard to prepare. But, with practice and precision, the doctor may attain the ability to prepare and insert dental splints.