Are mouth guards an effective treatment of TMJ disorder?
Many of my clients in the clinic here who present with TMJ disorder have seen a dentist and been prescribed a mouthguard. They’ve primarily been prescribed this mouth guard for teeth grinding, particularly that at night, also known as bruxism.
Bruxism can cause many symptoms within the TMJ, particularly that of pain, tension and restriction in movement.
But do mouthguards treat this?
Studies show that mouthguards do not effectively reduce the pain associated with TMJ disorder, and can potentially increase the bruxism present, as well as increasing the symptoms caused by the bruxism.
But what else does a mouthguard do in the treatment of bruxism?
Another function of the mouthguard is to protect teeth from the excessive wear and tear caused by clenching or grinding. So, it’s not all doom and gloom for the mouthguard. However, if you have been prescribed one for TMJ-disorder related to bruxism, chances are you won’t receive much relief.
In my opinion, mouthguards don’t fully treat the cause of TMJ so what else can I do?
There are a few different structures through the area that could actually be the underlying cause of the pain you are experiencing. So, if you experience more of a muscular-type pain, your practitioner might use techniques such as dry needling to release the muscles. Massage work may also be used to increase the range of motion through the joint and stretch out some of the ligaments. Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are also crucial to adjust treatments as needed and monitor the progress of your recovery. They may also explore other interventions, such as physical therapy or acupuncture, which can complement existing treatments and provide holistic relief.
If you’re struggling with TMJ disorder or any related symptoms, don’t wait for relief. Book your appointment with us today to start your journey towards recovery. Visit our homepage to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve better health and comfort.
Your Questions Answered
Can wearing mouthguards cause extreme tiredness and headaches?
Yes, improperly fitted mouthguards can contribute to symptoms like extreme tiredness and headaches.
Mouthguards, especially when not properly tailored to the individual’s dental structure, can lead to improper jaw alignment. This misalignment can strain the muscles around the jaw and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), potentially leading to discomfort including headaches and extreme tiredness. It is crucial for individuals using mouthguards, particularly athletes and those who grind their teeth, to ensure their mouthguards are professionally fitted to avoid such symptoms.
How do mouthguards help in managing TMJ disorders?
Mouthguards can help manage TMJ disorders by reducing strain on the jaw during sleep.
For patients experiencing TMJ disorders, dentists often recommend the use of a mouthguard. These devices help by cushioning the teeth and keeping the jaw in a more relaxed position during sleep, which can alleviate stress on the TMJ and reduce symptoms like jaw pain and morning headaches. By preventing teeth grinding and clenching, mouthguards can play a critical role in managing TMJ disorders.
What are the signs that a mouthguard is not fitting well?
Common signs include increased jaw pain, headaches, and discomfort while wearing the guard.
A poorly fitting mouthguard can exacerbate or cause symptoms it’s meant to prevent, such as jaw pain, headaches, and even extreme tiredness. Other signs of a poor fit include difficulty speaking, breathing issues while wearing the mouthguard, and it slipping out of place during use. If these symptoms occur, it’s advised to consult with a dental professional to adjust the fit or fabricate a new custom-fitted mouthguard.
