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