Temporomandibular disorders. Part 4: appliance therapy

Abstract

Appliances have been used in the management of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) for many years, and over this time designs have waxed and waned in popularity. The majority of appliance designs have few studies to support their use and what evidence is available, is often of low quality. This article, the fourth in a series of six, reviews the mechanisms of action, evidential support for, and provides advice on when to use commonly used appliance designs. CPD/Clinical Relevance: There are a plethora of splint designs in use, but it is essential that the evidence supporting each is understood so that the most appropriate design is used for each individual situation.