These are removable plastic covers, usually for the upper teeth, which separate the different sets of teeth when they come together in the bite. Occlusion splints are generally worn at night in order to prevent the patient from grinding or pressing their teeth together. They are usually used for reducing pain in the jaw or chewing apparatus (these findings being summed up by the umbrella term Craniomandibular Dysfunction) and to protect teeth against chipping.
In the best cases occlusion splints can break entrenched patterns of movement and can also have a kind of non-specific relaxation effect. Numerous different types of occlusion splints have been developed but they all basically work in the same way. So it is always best to choose a simple, inexpensive design that is safe to wear long-term.
The Michigan Splint best fits these criteria. Patients who keep on grinding excessivly while using Michigan Splints can alternatively be treated with a splint, which only covers the front teeth. Because of the pain stimulus on the front teeth, which leads to a reflective reduction of masseter activity, grinders can also benefit from these splints.