TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues can cause discomfort or pain in the jaw, face, and even neck. One of the most common causes is teeth grinding or clenching, which can happen at night while you sleep or even during the day without you realizing it. While TMJ can cause many issues, there are different treatment options available to get you the relief you need.
Occlusal Guards:
An occlusal guard, also known as a night guard, is a custom-made dental appliance designed to help manage and treat TMJ-related issues.
The occlusal guard works by providing a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other. It helps reduce the pressure on your jaw joints and muscles, which can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage to your teeth.
We make the guard by taking a scan or your upper and lower teeth to ensure it fits perfectly, and it’s usually worn at night while you sleep. By wearing it regularly, it can reduce the symptoms of TMJ, like jaw pain, headaches, and even teeth sensitivity. Over time, it can also help your jaw muscles relax and promote better alignment.
If you’re dealing with TMJ discomfort, an occlusal guard is often one of the first and most effective treatments we recommend. Our occlusal guards are typically made at our in office lab, and can be ready in just a few days. We then bring you back to try in your new occlusal guard, and make any adjustments necessary to make sure you have the best possible fit.
Occlusal guards are a great investment in protecting your teeth against the wear and tear of daily cleaning and grinding, while also alleviating most coinciding TMJ symptoms. Most insurance cover at least a portion of these appliances.
Botulinum Toxin Treatment:
(commonly referred to as Botox)
Botulinum Toxin for TMJ treatment is a relatively newer approach that’s been gaining popularity for people who suffer from jaw pain, teeth grinding, or tension related to TMJ disorders. Botox, which is well-known for its cosmetic uses, works by temporarily relaxing the muscles in the jaw that are overactive or tense due to clenching or grinding.
When injected into specific muscles around the jaw—like the masseter muscle (the one you use to chew)—Botox helps to reduce the intensity of muscle contractions. This can lead to significant relief from pain, reduce the frequency of headaches, and even lessen the wear on your teeth caused by grinding.
The procedure is quick, with minimal discomfort. You might feel a few tiny pinpricks from the needle, but most people don’t find it painful. After the injections, it takes a few days to notice the full effect, and the results can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. It’s not a permanent solution, but it can help manage the symptoms of TMJ and improve your quality of life.
Botox for TMJ isn’t for everyone, but it can be effective if traditional treatments like mouthguards haven’t fully addressed your symptoms.