A custom-fit mouth guard for TMJ can help protect your jaw and relieve the pain. It reduces discomfort and protects your teeth by being custom-made for your specific bite. Say goodbye to insomnia and hello to a healthier jaw.
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) occurs when one of the body’s most complex and frequently used joints is put under too much continued pressure. The temporomandibular joint is located in the lower jaw where it connects the jawbone to the skull and allows us to freely speak, eat, and move our mouth. When this joint is damaged or subjected to excessive stress, it can result in TMJ disorder, a painful condition. Jaw pain, headaches, clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth, and difficulty biting or chewing are all symptoms of TMJ.
To avoid the onset or worsening of TMJ symptoms, it is critical to protect this delicate joint. Using a mouth guard is one effective way to accomplish this. In this article, we will look at the benefits of using a TMJ mouth guard and how to select the best one to relieve your pain and protect your jaw.
Causes of TMJ pain
TMJ causes vary from person to person, but some of the most common include bruxism, jaw clenching, arthritis, and stress and anxiety.
Teeth grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common cause of TMJ. It can happen while you’re sleeping or awake, and it can cause significant wear and tear on your jaw joint.
Clenching of the jaw muscles
Clenching the jaw, especially when stressed or anxious, can also lead to TMJ. This habit places undue strain on the jaw joint, causing pain and discomfort.
Arthritis
Another common cause of TMJ is arthritis. Inflammation and pain in the jaw joint can be caused by this degenerative joint disease.
Mental disorders
Finally, stress and anxiety can cause a person to unconsciously clench or grind their teeth, which can lead to TMJ. This is just one of many reasons to manage stress levels before they cause physical symptoms, including TMJ pain.
Understanding the causes of TMJ makes it clear as day how critical it is to protect the jaw joint and relieve any symptoms. Fortunately, a mouth guard for TMJ can help with this by reducing jaw joint pressure and preventing bruxism and clenching.
The benefits of using a TMJ mouth guard
There are so many benefits to using a mouth guard for TMJ, particularly if the TMJ disorder is severe and is causing you constant muscle pain and irritation.
When worn in the correct position, TMJ mouth guards can:
Reduce TMJ pain and discomfort
A mouth guard can help to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ by evenly distributing the force of jaw movement.
Protect the teeth
Bruxism and clenching can cause serious dental damage such as chips, cracks, and tooth loss. A mouth guard protects the teeth by acting as a barrier between them.
Improve quality of sleep
It should come as no surprise that people who suffer from TMJ often have difficulty sleeping because the pain and discomfort make it difficult to get comfortable. A night guard for TMJ can help to alleviate these symptoms, allowing you to sleep better at night.
Stress relief
Mouth guards can help relieve stress that contributes to TMJ by reducing the ongoing pressure on the jaw joint.
In short, a TMJ mouth guard can provide significant relief and improvement to those who suffer from this condition. A mouth guard can help you reduce pain, protect your teeth, improve your sleep, or relieve jaw stress.
The different types of mouth guards for TMJ disorders
There are two types of TMJ mouth guards available: over-the-counter mouth guards and custom-fit mouth guards.
Over-the-counter mouth guards
These are more affordable and widely available in stores. They are, however, one-size-fits-all and may not provide the best fit or protection for those suffering from TMJ.
Custom-fit mouth guards
These are, as the name suggests, made by a dentist and are designed specifically for the individual. They are more expensive than their pre-made counterparts, but they provide the best fit and protection because they are designed to fit the individual’s mouth and teeth.
Choosing the right TMJ mouth guard for you
We’ve established that there are two types of TMJ mouth guards available: over-the-counter mouth guards and custom-fit mouth guards.
Over-the-counter mouth guards offer the advantage of being more affordable and widely available in stores. They are, however, one-size-fits-all and may not provide the best fit or protection for those suffering from TMJ.
Custom-fit mouth guards are made by a dentist and are designed specifically for the individual. They are more expensive, but they provide the best fit and protection because they are designed to fit the individual’s mouth and teeth.
For those with mild TMJ or for short-term use, over-the-counter mouth guards may be a good option. A custom-fit mouth guard is recommended for maximum protection and comfort in those with severe TMJ or for long-term use.
Ultimately, the decision between an over-the-counter and a custom-fit mouth guard will be determined by the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. To determine the best option for you, always consult with a dentist.
TMJ mouth guard care and maintenance
Whether you choose an over-the-counter or custom option, it is vital to take proper care of your TMJ mouth guard to ensure that it continues to provide the best protection and comfort.
Here are our best care tips for TMJ mouth guards:
Clean the mouth guard on a regular basis
Cleaning your mouth guard on a regular basis is important to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other debris. You can clean it with a denture cleaner or a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap.
Store your mouth guard properly
Proper mouth guard storage is critical to ensuring the longevity of your mouth guard. When not in use, keep it in a clean, dry place, such as a protective case.
Replace the mouth guard as needed
No mouth guard is made to last forever.
Mouth guards can become worn or damaged over time, affecting their ability to provide adequate protection. To ensure that your mouth guard continues to provide the best protection and comfort, replace it as needed.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your TMJ mouth guard in good condition for as long as possible.a
Final thoughts on TMJ mouth guards
To summarise, using a TMJ mouth guard can provide a variety of benefits, including pain and discomfort reduction, tooth protection, improved sleep, and jaw stress relief.
When selecting a mouth guard, consider fit, comfort, and durability, as well as consulting with a dentist and physician for additional advice. Proper mouth guard care and maintenance, such as regular cleaning and replacement as needed, can help ensure that it continues to provide the best protection and comfort.
If you have been diagnosed with TMJ or are experiencing symptoms, using a mouth guard to protect your jaw can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Don’t put it off any longer; act now to protect your jaw!
FAQ
Q: Does wearing a mouth guard help TMJ?
A: Yes, wearing a mouth guard can help relieve temporomandibular joint disorder symptoms (TMJ). A mouth guard can help reduce TMJ pain and discomfort by cushioning the jaw and reducing strain and pressure on the jaw joint. Mouth guards can also help protect teeth from damage caused by teeth grinding or clenching, as well as improve sleep by reducing jaw-related discomfort during the night. It is, however, critical to consult with a dentist or physician to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.
Q: What type of mouth guard is best for TMJ?
A: The best mouth guard for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is determined by your personal needs and preferences. There are two types of TMJ mouth guards: over-the-counter and custom-fit.
Over-the-counter mouth guards are widely available and less expensive. They may not, however, provide the best fit or comfort and may not be as durable as custom-fit mouth guards.
Custom-fit mouth guards are made by a dentist and are designed specifically for your mouth. They are typically more expensive than over-the-counter alternatives, but they provide the best fit and comfort, as well as being more durable.
When selecting a TMJ mouth guard, consider factors such as fit, comfort, and durability, and seek advice from a dentist or physician. Finally, the best type of TMJ mouth guard will be determined by your personal needs and preferences.
Q: Should I use a dental guard for TMJ?
A: A dental guard may be beneficial if you have been diagnosed with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or are experiencing symptoms such as jaw pain, discomfort, or difficulty opening and closing your mouth. A dental guard can help with TMJ symptoms by cushioning the jaw and reducing strain and pressure on the jaw joint. A dental guard can also help protect the teeth from damage caused by teeth grinding or clenching, as well as improve sleep by reducing nighttime jaw discomfort.
It is, however, important to consult with a dentist or physician to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs. A dentist can advise you on the best type of dental guard for your specific needs, as well as how to use and maintain the dental guard properly.
Q: How long should you wear a mouthguard for TMJ?
A: The length of time you should wear a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) mouth guard depends on the severity of your symptoms and the advice of your dentist or physician. Some people may require a mouth guard only at night, while others may require it both during the day and at night.
In general, wearing a mouth guard for as long as necessary to relieve TMJ symptoms and prevent further damage to the jaw joint is advised. Your dentist or physician can make specific recommendations based on your specific needs and the severity of your TMJ symptoms.
To ensure the effectiveness and longevity of your mouth guard, it is critical to follow the instructions provided by your dentist or physician, as well as to use proper care and maintenance.