Protect Your Smile with Nightguards for TMJ Relief
If you suffer from jaw pain, headaches, or teeth grinding, it could be a sign of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or bruxism. Both conditions can cause significant discomfort and damage to your teeth if left untreated. Fortunately, custom nightguards offer a simple and effective solution to relieve pain and protect your teeth.
Nightguards and the Treatment of Bruxism
There is an easy, non-invasive treatment for bruxism. Nightguards are an easy way to prevent the wear and damage that teeth-grinding cause over time. Custom-made by a dentist from soft material to fit your teeth, a nightguard is inserted over your top or bottom arch and prevents contact with the opposing teeth.
Choosing the right mouthguard is essential. There are three basic types of mouthguards: the pre-made nightguard, the “boil-and-bite” nightguard, and a custom-made nightguard from our office. When you choose a nightguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable and well fitted for your mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not prevent you from breathing properly.
A nightguard created in our office will fit all these requirements, since it will be custom-made just for your teeth.
How Nightguards Help with TMJ
Nightguards can significantly reduce the symptoms of TMJ, such as jaw stiffness, pain, and discomfort. By preventing teeth grinding at night, they allow your jaw muscles to relax, minimizing the risk of further damage and promoting better sleep. If you are experiencing TMJ-related pain, consult with us to find out if a custom nightguard is right for you.
Understanding Occlusal Disease and Your Bite Health
Occlusal disease is caused by a misalignment or incorrect relation between the teeth of the upper and lower dental arches, also called malocclusion. If left untreated, occlusal disease can damage your teeth, the supporting bones and gums around your teeth, temporomandibular joints, and the jaw muscles you use for chewing.
Many people dismiss excessive or abnormally accelerated tooth wear as “natural aging or wearing” of teeth, but our office can provide treatment to alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by occlusal disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Occlusal Disease
- Enamel wear
- Tooth cracking or breakage
- Tooth sensitivity
- Gum recession
- Loss of bone support
- Muscle pain
- TMJ symptoms
Our goal is to preserve the oral health of our patients, as well as to anticipate the long-term results when restorative treatment is provided. Treating occlusal disease can lead to a long life of optimal oral health and restorative treatment success.
Explore Our Helpful Video Guides
Understanding Tooth Wear
Learn about the causes and effects of tooth wear and how it impacts your oral health. This video demonstrates how early intervention can help protect your teeth from further damage.
Bruxism (Clenching and Grinding)
This video explains the impact of bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding) on your dental health. Discover how identifying and treating this condition early can help prevent tooth wear and jaw issues.
TMD Condylar Degeneration
Explore how TMD condylar degeneration affects your jaw joint and overall dental health. This video explains the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this condition to maintain optimal jaw function.
Occlusal Appliance for Tooth Wear
Watch how occlusal appliances are used to protect your teeth from wear caused by grinding. This video shows how these devices can help prevent damage and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Anterior Bite Plane
Learn about the use of an anterior bite plane to prevent damage from teeth grinding. This video explains how it helps align your teeth and reduce pressure on your jaw.
Home Maintenance for Oral Appliances
This video demonstrates how to care for your oral appliances at home. Learn the steps to keep them clean and functional, ensuring they continue to support your dental health effectively.
Equilibration
This video explains the process of equilibration, where your dentist adjusts the bite to ensure your teeth are properly aligned. Learn how this procedure helps improve your bite and prevent future dental issues.