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Doepel M, Nilner M et al. J Oral Rehabil 2012; 39: 252–260

This RCT compared the therapeutic effects of a 'prefabricated appliance' and a 'stabilisation appliance'/splint for 65 patients with myofascial pain. The 'prefabricated appliance' has been referred to in an earlier paper by some of the same authors of this paper, as Relax (Unident AB, Falkenberg). This appliance extends from canine to canine only, has a silicone fit surface and has some design characteristics shared with NTI-tss dental device. This study met the seven criteria laid down by RTI International-University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Evidence-based Practice Center, apart from failing to recruit subjects from 'populations in primary care'. Measurements for pain and function were recorded at baseline and then 6 and 12 months after provision of the oral appliances. The 'prefabricated appliance' and 'stabilisation appliance' had similar favourable outcomes.