TMJ or temporomandibular joint dysfunction affects millions of people. Though a common dental problem, patients can mistake the many symptoms for some other medical or dental condition. TMJ is triggered by various causes from stress to teeth grinding. Your dental professional at Swan Dental will be able to check for signs of wear and tear associated with TMJ.
TMJ dysfunction is triggered by off-bite relationships which contribute to teeth clenching and grinding, usually occurring at night. This teeth clenching and grinding activates and aggravates the TMJ or temporomandibular joint, along with the shoulder, neck, head, jaw and face muscles. This in turn leads to chronic pain problems which can be relieved using NTI nightguards and TMJ therapy.
Nightguards are used for treating neck and shoulder pain, tooth damage, chronic and migraine headaches, jaw pain and damage, as well as teeth clenching and grinding therapy. The use of nightguards, as well as clenching and grinding therapy, is part of restorative dentistry.
Nightguards used for treating TMJ disorders are always made of rigid acrylic material and are also called splints. They work by raising the bite and repositioning the jaw to a position which helps provide relief from symptoms and discomfort.
The NTI nightguard reduces the strain on the jaw point, relaxes muscles and protects teeth. In fact, by repositioning the bite for proper placement, these nightguards provide TMJ therapy by ensuring the joint is held in the ideal position for optimal relaxation.
Clenching of the jaw strains the muscles running to the top of your head and can cause chronic headaches and migraines. For some people this can cause intense pain and affect one’s quality of life. However, by using a nightguard to alleviate the associated strain and pressure of clenching, it is possible to get rid of the chronic headaches and migraines.
The effects of night grinding include joint pain and tooth destruction. Moreover, constant clenching and grinding procedures wear the teeth facets. Once most of the structure is lost, vital tissues can get exposed to cause teeth sensitivity. If left untreated, excessive enamel is lost, and the bite collapses and the temporomandibular joint is left exposed to endure the damage.
If you suffer from any of these symptoms, it is always better to have your teeth checked to find out if you suffer from TMJ. Moreover, the precise nature of the splint makes it necessary for the Dentist to make multiple adjustments to finally achieve the perfect position. Swan Dental can help you with any of these issues by working with you to find that right fit.