TMJ & Night Guards
Jaw pain, tension headaches, and worn-down teeth are often caused by night-time grinding (bruxism) or jaw-joint dysfunction. A simple, custom-made night guard often makes a dramatic difference.
What TMJ disorders actually are
"TMJ" refers to your temporomandibular joints — the two joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull. TMJ disorders cover a range of problems: muscle tension, joint inflammation, disc displacement, and pain triggered by grinding or clenching. Symptoms include jaw pain, clicking or popping, headaches, ear fullness, and limited jaw movement.
How we evaluate
- Clinical exam of the muscles and joints
- Bite analysis and review of tooth wear patterns
- Imaging if needed
- Conversation about stress, sleep, and any jaw habits
Custom night guards
A custom night guard is a thin, hard acrylic appliance molded precisely to your teeth. It protects your enamel from grinding, takes pressure off the joints, and often reduces morning soreness and headaches significantly. We make them in two visits — impression, then delivery and fit-check.
Beyond the night guard
For more complex TMJ cases we may recommend a daytime appliance, physical therapy referrals, or a coordinated plan with an outside TMJ-focused provider. We'll tell you honestly what's likely to help and what isn't.
TMJ Treatment & Night Guards FAQ
Common signs: waking up with a sore jaw or headache, worn-flat front teeth, chipped edges, a partner who hears grinding at night, or sensitive teeth without any obvious cavity. We can spot the wear patterns at a routine exam.
Usually no. Boil-and-bite guards are bulky, don't fit well, and can actually cause new bite problems. A custom-made night guard is thinner, more comfortable, and protects without throwing your bite off.
Often it helps significantly — but TMJ pain is multi-factorial. We may also recommend stress management, posture changes, jaw exercises, or, for stubborn cases, referral to a TMJ-focused provider for advanced care.