occlusal splint

noun

Meaning

A removable dental appliance worn over the teeth to stabilize the bite, reduce jaw muscle activity, or protect tooth surfaces from wear.

Examples

  • The dentist fabricated an occlusal splint to alleviate the patient's chronic temporomandibular joint pain.
  • Consistent use of an occlusal splint can significantly reduce the damage caused by nocturnal bruxism.

Synonyms: night guard, bite guard, dental splint, occlusal appliance