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- What is “TMJ” and what are nightguards used for?
“TMJ” is a term used to describe discomfort localized to the
jaw joint (Temporal Mandibular Joint) or soreness of the
facial muscles. “Bruxism” or pathological grinding/clenching
of you teeth, mostly at night, is the number one cause of TMJ
discomfort. Bruxism also causes a lot of damage to natural
teeth and existing dental restorations. People are often
unaware that they are grinding their teeth at night. Patients
often describe waking up in the morning with “tight jaw
muscles” or report a spouse heard them grinding their teeth at
night. Nightguards are acrylic splints used to treat TMJ,
migraine headaches and prevent damage from grinding/clenching
of your teeth. Nightguards made by your dentist are custom
made and completely different from over the counter
nightguards. Over the counter nightguards can actually make
TMJ symptoms worse and are not recommended. If you are having
tension headaches, jaw pain, tightness in your jaw muscles,
under a lot of stress or are noticing that your teeth appear
worn down and sensitive, a nightguard may be appropriate for
you.
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Close up of TM Joint |
Nightguard |
Nightguard |
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