The therapy of masticatory muscle pain with oral splints

Myofascial masticatory muscle pain is the second most frequent pain-related complaint in the orofacial region. Like unspecific musculoskeletal pain in other body segments, masticatory muscle pain is characterised by a multifactorial aetiology. The aim of this article is to document the current knowledge about the therapy with oral splints. It is shown that in both the short and long term, oral appliances can achieve sufficient pain relief in the majority of patients. In chronic myofascial jaw pain associated with psychosocial impairment in patients, effectiveness of splint therapy is limited, though. Within an interdisciplinary pain management programme, additional involvement of a psychotherapist is essential.