If you are frequently waking with jaw pain, headaches, or an achy face, you may have TMJ disorder. TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that affects the joint where your jaw meets your skull. There are many causes of TMJ disorder, but a common cause is nighttime teeth grinding or clenching, which puts all of the strain on the joint and surrounding muscles. This is where guards can help. For TMJ-Anti-Grinding Night Guards in NE Calgary, it could help things out.
But the real question is mouth guard vs night guard: what is the best option to relieve your symptoms? We will try to provide a simple and clear explanation so you can determine which will help reduce your TMJ syndrome.
What is the Difference Between a Mouth Guard and a Night Guard?
It is easy to mix the two up, but they are meant to solve different problems.
Mouth Guards
- Typically used in sports or physical activity.
- A mouthguard is intended to protect your teeth from outside forces or injury.
- Often made from thicker and softer materials.
- Not intended to be worn overnight, and does not solve grinding.
Night Guards
- Worn while sleeping.
- They are designed to mitigate the force of grinding or clenching your teeth.
- Made of stronger materials to withstand force while sleeping.
- Night guards are a good option if the cause of TMJ issues is grinding.
Which MouthGuard is Better for TMJ?
In terms of TMJ pain, night guards are typically the better option. Sports mouth guards are designed for physical injury, while a night guard can be especially important if you are clenching your teeth while sleeping.
Night guards are shaped to fit your teeth and help keep your jaw in a more relaxed position while you sleep. They act like a cushion, reducing pressure on the jaw joint and muscles. This can lead to fewer headaches, less jaw pain, and better sleep overall.
What are the Signs You Might Need a Night Guard for TMJ?
Not sure if you need a guard? Here are some common signs that you might benefit:
- Frequent jaw pain or soreness, especially in the morning
- Clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw
- Regular headaches or earaches
- Worn-down or chipped teeth
- Trouble opening or closing your mouth fully
- Tooth sensitivity without a clear cause
If you’re noticing these symptoms, it may be time to talk to a dental professional about your options.
How Can a Night Guard Help with TMJ?
A night guard helps by:
- Reducing the strain on your jaw joint
- Preventing your upper and lower teeth from grinding against each other
- Helping to realign your bite into a more relaxed position
- Giving your jaw muscles a break while you sleep
- Decreasing the damage to teeth caused by grinding
Wearing a night guard consistently can help you feel better over time and avoid further issues with your jaw.
Where Can You Get the Right Guard for TMJ?
You can find mouth guards at many pharmacies, but they’re usually one-size-fits-all. These may not fit your mouth properly and might not help your TMJ symptoms. A better option is to get a custom-fit night guard from an Orthodontist in NE Calgary. They can check your bite and jaw alignment and create a guard that fits your mouth perfectly. This makes it more comfortable and more effective in reducing grinding and pain.
Custom night guards are made using precise moulds of your teeth, ensuring a snug fit and better protection. They also last longer and are crafted from stronger materials than store-bought options. Plus, regular checkups with your orthodontist can help adjust the guard as your needs change over time.
Why Not Just Buy One Online?
Store-bought or online guards may be cheaper, but they’re not made for your exact bite. They could make your jaw pain worse or make you feel uncomfortable during the night. Only a dental expert can guide you properly and give you a guard that matches your needs.
If you’re searching for Anti-Grinding Night Guards Near You, make sure to visit a trusted clinic that offers personalized care. These over-the-counter guards may wear down quickly and won’t offer the same level of protection as a custom-made one. In some cases, they might even shift your bite over time, causing more harm than good. A properly fitted night guard from a clinic ensures long-term comfort, support, and real relief from TMJ symptoms.
Take the Next Step with Totally Orthodontics
At Totally Orthodontics, we understand how TMJ pain can affect your daily life. If you’ve been grinding your teeth or waking up with jaw discomfort, our team in NE Calgary is here to help. We’ll work with you to find the right solution and create a custom night guard that brings you relief and lets you rest easier.
Don’t wait for the pain to get worse. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward feeling better. Call us or visit our clinic in NE Calgary to find out how a custom night guard can improve your sleep and protect your smile!
FAQS
- Can a night guard cure TMJ disorder?
A night guard doesn’t cure TMJ, but it can greatly reduce symptoms by easing pressure on the jaw and preventing teeth grinding. - How long do night guards last?
With proper care, a custom night guard can last several years. However, its lifespan depends on the material used and how much you grind your teeth. - Can I wear a sports mouth guard at night for TMJ?
Sports mouth guards aren’t designed for nighttime use or jaw alignment. They’re bulky and may worsen TMJ symptoms if worn while sleeping.