The temporomandibular joint, better known as just the “TMJ,” works as a sliding hinge, connecting the jaw bone to the skull. However, TMJ disorders are also the most common non-dental related facial pain. In fact, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that as many as 10 million Americans are actively living with some sort of TMJ disorder. Furthermore, it’s hard to pinpoint the exact cause of a TMJ disorder, as it can vary from arthritis to a jaw injury to the habitual clenching or grinding of the teeth.

If you’re affected by a TMJ disorder, the good news is that it’s usually correctable in a non-surgical way. One common course of treatment is a bite guard.

What’s a Bite Guard?

Bite guards may also be referred to as “stabilization splints” or “night guards.” Specifically, a bite guard is an oral device that fits over either the upper or lower rows of teeth.  They serve two purposes—diagnostic and treatment of the symptoms related to the disorder.  The splint treatment is reversible versus other treatments that may not be reversible such as surgery.  If the symptoms aren’t relieved, then other types of splints may be necessary.   If the symptoms are relieved, then the diagnosis is positive and further permanent treatment may be warranted.

Bite Guards and TMJ Disorders

Bite guard stabilization splints are the most popular treatment method for TMJ disorders. This is for several reasons. For starters, bite guards work be creating separation between the teeth, which can help correct TMJ disorders if they’re caused from habitual clenching or teeth grinding. Additionally, splints work to help hold the jaw in place, which in many cases can actually help the disorder heal.

Just how effective are bite guards when it comes to treating TMJ disorders? It’s a difficult question to answer, as every patient is different. However, being that it is the most popular treatment method for such disorders, it’s usually a starting point for most patients and next to a sure fire fix if the root of the disorder is teeth grinding or teeth clenching.

Alternative TMJ Treatment Methods

If a bite guard doesn’t do the trick, there are a bevy of other treatment methods for dentists and patients to consider before surgery even becomes a thought. These include:

Prescription medications: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants and sedatives are popular medications that can treat TMJ disorders.

Physical therapy: Exercises such as stretching and strengthening jaw muscles can help alleviate symptoms, as can treating the area with either heat or ice.

Botox injections: Albeit not a common option, Botox injections have helped alleviate TMJ pain in some cases.

Home eating remedy: Simply eating soft foods, cutting food into small pieces and avoiding sticky and chewy foods can also help alleviate stress on the jaw muscles.

Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that in some cases, TMJ disorders have been known to go away without any treatment.

TMJ disorders can be very painful, so it’s important to consult with your dentist if symptoms persist and become too severe. For more information on TMJ disorders – and treatments like bite guards that can help treat it – contact us today.