Do you suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain? Have you been seeking a solution but nothing seems to be working? One way to help with TMJ pain is by using a custom mouthguard. Read on to learn how custom mouthguards can provide relief and what you need to know about using them.
What Is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint ligament is a joint in the jaw that joins your jaw muscles to the bones in your head. TMJ disorder, or TMD, is a condition that causes chronic pain, stiffness, and other symptoms in the jaw. These symptoms often include headaches, difficulty in moving the mouth, and a clicking or popping sound when you open and close your mouth.
The Benefits of Custom Mouthguards
Custom mouthguards are rectangular pieces of plastic or acrylic that fit snugly over your teeth. They are designed to help relieve TMJ symptoms caused by bruxism, or teeth grinding. Most of the pain and other symptoms are induced when the jaw is forced to stay open or closed for an extended period of time. The pressure and strain that this can cause to the discs, cartilage, and ligaments in the joint can lead to pain and other symptoms. A custom mouthguard can help to alleviate or relieve these symptoms.
A custom mouthguard is the best type of mouthguard to use since it is customized to your own unique jaw size. This type of mouthguard fits better than any other type of mouthguard. It is important to make sure that the mouthguard is made of high-quality materials. This will help to ensure that it is durable and can last for a long time.
How to Get a Custom Mouthguard for TMJ Relief
If you are experiencing TMJ symptoms and want to try using a custom mouthguard for relief, there are several steps you should take. The first step is to talk to your dental professional. Inform your professional of any symptoms or pain that you are experiencing in your jaw. Your professional will be able to conduct an examination of your mouth to diagnose your condition. Depending on the severity of the problem, your professional may recommend that you use a custom mouthguard.
If a mouthguard is recommended, he or she may take an impression of your mouth to help have a custom mouthguard made. The impression is a mold of your jaw that will be used to custom-design a mouthguard to your unique mouth size and shape.
What to Consider when Using a Custom Mouthguard
It is important to consider how your mouthguard fits and how it is used. Make sure that the mouthguard is properly fitted in your mouth. A poorly fitted mouthguard could lead to discomfort and even pain. Regularly clean the mouthguard and check to make sure it fits appropriately. Do not wear the mouthguard for an extended period of time, as it can lead to a range of dental health issues.
In Conclusion
Whether you have minor or severe TMJ pain, a custom mouthguard may be able to provide relief. Talk to your dental professional about a diagnosis and if a mouthguard would be helpful in providing relief. If a mouthguard is recommended, it is important to consider the way it fits and how it is used in order to help avoid any potential issues. With the right mouthguard, however, TMJ pain can become a thing of the past.