How do Nightguards Help TMJ Problems?

Millions of people suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and its symptoms. Associated with malfunction of the jaw joints, TMJ can cause a wide array of symptoms that interfere with speaking, eating, and simple activities like yawning.

While surgery was once the primary therapy for correcting TMJ disorder, today there are noninvasive options, including custom night guards. Here, Richard Blackburn, DMD, MA, and the team at Volterra Dental explain why TMJ disorders happen and how a night guard can help relieve your uncomfortable symptoms now and in the future.

The ABCs of TMJ

The temporomandibular joint is the hinge joint that connects your lower jaw (mandible) with your skull. This joint enables you to open your mouth comfortably, speak, chew, bite, cough, yawn, and perform lots of other functions.

These joints contain tiny discs that cushion the joint and absorb the impact from chewing and biting. Sometimes, the joint, disc, or other structures become irritated and inflamed, leading to jaw pain and other symptoms, like clicking or popping noises or sticking sensations when you chew or open your mouth wide.

Abnormal TMJ function is often associated with bite issues that interfere with the way your teeth meet. Left untreated, TMJ problems increase your risk of uneven tooth wear, leading to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Uneven strain on your jaw muscles also causes jaw pain, facial discomfort, and headaches. 

While bite problems like crooked or poorly aligned teeth are a common cause of TMJ issues, other problems, like traumatic injuries, arthritis, and chronic tooth grinding (bruxism), can lead to TMJ disorder, too.

Nightguards: Relief for TMJ

Although TMJ disorder can cause wide-ranging and uncomfortable symptoms, the good news is that it can often be managed with regular use of a protective night guard. These devices are custom-made and designed to fit comfortably over your teeth, providing extra cushioning that reduces jaw strain while you sleep.

Night guards are especially good for people who tend to grind or clench their teeth during sleep. Nighttime tooth grinding is a surprisingly common problem; many of us do it without even realizing it. During your dental exam, Dr. Blackburn looks for signs of tooth grinding that could mean you have a hidden grinding problem, reducing your risk of TMJ and uneven tooth wear.

Many people with TMJ experience less jaw strain and facial pain, fewer headaches, and better sleep. Plus, night guards don’t involve injections or surgery, and they can also reduce your need for pain relievers or muscle relaxers.

Find a solution for your TMJ symptoms

Night guards provide a simple, custom, comfortable solution for TMJ disorder. They relieve jaw strain and painful symptoms while improving overall oral health. To learn more about night guards and TMJ management, request an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Blackburn and the team at Volterra Dental in Los Alamitos, California, today.