Clinical Efficacy of Occlusal Splints in Myogenous Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Myogenous temporomandibular disorders (M-TMDs) are common musculoskeletal conditions often presenting with pain and limited jaw mobility. Despite their frequent prescription, the comparative effectiveness of occlusal splints remains uncertain because of variations in study design and outcome measures. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of occlusal splints in treating myogenous temporomandibular disorders. Methods: We analyzed 15 RCTs ( n = 354) from PubMed, Cochrane, Ebsco, and Google Scholar. Included studies compared occlusal splint (OS) with alternative treatments (physical therapy, low-level laser therapy, acupuncture) or no intervention. Pain intensity Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and maximum mouth opening were assessed. Meta-analysis employed (I 2 = 92%). Risk of bias was evaluated using Cochrane risk of bias criteria. Results: Occlusal splints reduce pain (SMD = 1.57, 95% CI = 0.78–2.36; P = 0.0001) and improves mouth opening (SMD = –0.73, 95% CI = –1.38 to –0.07; P = 0.03). Moreover, heterogeneity and elevated risk of bias (primarily from inadequate blinding) were noted. Conclusion: This review established that occlusal splints emerge as the most effective treatment options, while alternative comparators offer additional benefits.