About the service
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD), often referred to simply as TMJ issue, is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. This joint allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side, enabling actions like chewing, talking, and yawning. TMJD can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.
Several factors can contribute to TMJD, including jaw injury, arthritis, excessive teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), misalignment of the teeth or jaw, stress, or genetics. Symptoms can vary widely but commonly include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness.
- Difficulty or pain while chewing.
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you open or close your mouth.
- Locking of the jaw.
- Headaches or earaches.
- Facial pain.
Mouthguard therapy, also known as a splint or a night guard, is a common treatment for TMJD, especially if teeth grinding or clenching is a contributing factor. Here's how it can help:
- Protection: A custom made appliance( mouthguards) provides a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other. This protection can help alleviate pressure on the temporomandibular joint and reduce muscle tension in the jaw.
- Alignment: Some appliances (splints, orthotics) are designed to help align your jaw in a more optimal position, reducing strain on the TMJ and surrounding muscles.
- Cushioning: Mouthguards can also act as a cushion, absorbing some of the force generated by teeth grinding or clenching. This can help prevent damage to the teeth and alleviate associated pain.
- Stress Reduction: Mouthguards can serve as a physical reminder to relax your jaw muscles, especially if you tend to clench or grind your teeth unconsciously, such as during sleep or times of stress.
- Promotion of Healing: In cases where TMJD has resulted from injury or inflammation, wearing a custom splint also called orthotic can allow the jaw joint and surrounding muscles to rest and heal more effectively.
Mouthguards are typically custom-made by a dentist to ensure a proper fit and effectiveness. Over-the-counter mouthguards are also available, but they may not provide the same level of customization or effectiveness as those made specifically for your mouth. It's essential to consult with a dentist or TMJ specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific symptoms and circumstances.
