The Benefits Of Custom Mouthguards For TMJ Treatment

Treating TMJ Disorders With A Custom Mouthguard

One of the leading causes for TMJ disorders is known as bruxism, which is the medical term for grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw – particularly while you sleep. One of the most common treatment plans for TMJ disorder caused by grinding or clenching is being fitted with a custom mouth guard, which can help protect your teeth from excessive wear and tear while alleviating some of the pressure that comes from clenching your jaw.

TMJ Treatment: Benefits of a Custom Mouthguard
You can purchase mouthguards from your local drugstore, but having one custom-fitted to your mouth by a dental professional ensures that your teeth are protected and that relief from the pain due to inflammation is optimal. Some of the key benefits of having a custom-fit mouthguard include the following:

• A mouthguard that is custom-fit to your individual needs ensures that your jaw remains in its proper alignment, which can help with alleviating the pain associated with TMJ disorders.
• A custom fit ensures that your mouthguard will not fall out during the night and will fit comfortably.
• A custom-fitted mouthguard is made from medical-grade materials and will last longer and be more durable than one you could purchase over-the-counter at your local drugstore.

Custom-fit mouthguards are an effective treatment option for TMJ disorder. Custom mouthguards as TMJ treatment will:

• Prevent you from clenching your jaw.
• Keep you from grinding your teeth.
• Hold your jaw in the correct position, which can correct an improper bite.
• Help with relaxing your face and jaw muscles while also reducing muscle spasms, which can help relieve the pain associated with TMJ disorders.
• Keep your jaw from locking.

Different Types of Mouthguards
Different types of custom mouthguards are used to address specific causes of TMJ disorder. The two most common types of mouthguards are the following:

• Stabilization Splints

Stabilization splints are designed to cover the entirety of your teeth. These splints are designed specifically to help with the treatment of bruxism and TMJ pain. They prevent you from clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth together. Stabilization splints can be made out of a hard or soft material, which is determined by your individual needs. These splints work by easing the overuse or overextension of your jaw and its muscles.

• Repositioning Splints

Repositioning splints work by repositioning your lower jaw, usually bringing it forward. Initially, these types of splints are worn 24-hours a day. Once your pain has become manageable or subsided, then you and your dentist will have a conversation about the device’s long-term use.

For more information on custom mouthguards, read Your Complete Guide To Mouthguards.

Custom Mouthguards To Treat TMJ Disorders At Dr. Korol Dental

A custom-fit mouth guard is a key treatment option for TMJ pain. Visit your dentist to discuss treatment options for TMJ disorder and explore which one is the best one for you. Custom mouthguards for TMD/ TMJ treatment will protect your teeth, your jaw, and get you smiling again, pain-free.

Dr. Korol and her skilled and compassionate team are committed to providing the highest quality and safest, most holistic approach to dental care, oral health, and overall well-being. We offer the newest and most effective treatments and technologies to support a lifetime of good health. Our practice is committed to a biocompatible approach to family dentistry. Book your appointment by calling (403) 245-9099 or filling out our online form.