How to Benefit From a TMJ Night Mouth Guard

The TemporoMandibular Joint (TMJ) is a small piece of cartilage connecting the lower jaw bone (mandible) to the rest of the skull. We all have two joints at the front of either ear that allow the range of motion for chewing and swallowing food, speaking, and changing our facial expressions. The name of the joint (“TMJ”) means the particular joint but has come to be used to describe other problems in the region around the joint. Sometimes grinding teeth at night contributes to the inflamed joint, and people seek relief in night mouth guards. A few simple steps will allow you to benefit from a TMJ night mouth guard.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• A dentist experienced in treating TMJ problems
• An approved brand of TMJ night mouth guard

How to Benefit from a TMJ Night Guard

1. Find a dentist experienced in treating TMJ problems. This is important because pain and popping can be caused by arthritis, stress, sinuses or other chronic disease and needs to be properly diagnosed.
2. Find out if a night guard should be part of your treatment, and select the kind your doctor recommends. Use it as directed to provide relief to inflamed jaws during the night. The night guard works by preventing you from grinding your teeth at night.
3. Reduce stress in your life, which often causes clenched teeth and rigid muscles, both contributors to facial joint pain. Some patients have luck with facial massage, meditation and other stress-reduction strategies.
4. Become an involved patient, especially if multiple doctors are needed. Learn as much about your condition as possible and make sure the physicians involved all have complete records, and that any medications are coordinated and well -understood by you and your health care team.

Tips & Warnings

• Your treatment is likely to be composed of many steps, rather than one cure-all. Follow each step to avoid possibly more invasive treatment.
• Beware of web sites and advertisements selling night guards. Remember, this is only part of the treatment for a potentially serious condition that needs coordinated treatment.