Can an Oral Splint Reduce Tourette Syndrome Tics?
Possibly, for some people, but the evidence is very early. In a small 2019 study from Japan, a custom splint worn over the back teeth reduced tics in most of the 22 people who tried it, and the benefit lasted for months in some. The study had no comparison group, so a placebo effect can't be ruled out. Oral splints are not an established treatment for Tourette syndrome, and our office does not offer them for that purpose.
What did the study do?
Researchers at Osaka University Dental Hospital and collaborators fitted 22 people with Tourette syndrome, 14 under age 20 and 8 adults, with a custom-made splint covering the molars on both sides. The splint slightly increased the space between the upper and lower back teeth when biting. Participants rated their own tics on a standard self-report scale before and after wearing the splint, and the team also reviewed video recordings. [1]
What did it find?
Right away, average motor tic scores fell by about 30% and vocal tic scores by about 43%.
16 of the 22 participants improved on both measures.
Some participants kept the improvement after more than 100 days of use, and younger patients tended to do better over time. [1]
The researchers suggested that changing the signals from the jaw-closing muscles might affect the brain circuits involved in tics. That idea has not been tested directly.
What are the limits?
Only 22 people.
No control group and no blinding. Everyone knew they were getting the splint, and tics were largely self-reported. The authors themselves noted a possible placebo effect and called for further studies. [1]
Published as a short research letter, not a full trial.
How is Tourette syndrome usually treated?
Many people with Tourette syndrome have tics that don't interfere with daily life and need no treatment. When tics cause problems, the main options are behavioral therapy, especially Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), and medications, which can help but don't eliminate tics and can have side effects. [2] These decisions belong with a neurologist or physician who treats Tourette syndrome.
What do oral splints normally do?
Dentists most often use splints, sometimes called night guards, to protect teeth from clenching and grinding and to ease some jaw muscle and joint problems. A splint that changes your bite should be made and monitored by a dentist, because a poorly fitted appliance worn for long periods can shift teeth.
What should you do if you're interested?
Talk with the physician who manages your or your child's Tourette syndrome. If a splint is ever recommended as part of a study or treatment plan, your dentist can check your teeth and jaw before and during use. If you have questions about your own teeth or jaw, contact our office at 904-398-1549.
Sources
Murakami J, Tachibana Y, Akiyama S, et al. Oral splint ameliorates tic symptoms in patients with Tourette syndrome. Mov Disord. 2019;34(10):1577-1578. doi:10.1002/mds.27819 (retrieved via PubMed; full text via PubMed Central)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treatment of Tourette syndrome. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
About the author. CJ Henley, DMD, is a general dentist in Jacksonville whose practice focuses on cosmetic and restorative dentistry, dental implants and dental care around head and neck cancer. Meet Dr. Henley.
CJ Henley, DMD, PA · 3675 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207 · 904-398-1549
Updated October 2026.