Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and bruxism (teeth grinding) are two closely connected issues that, while common, are treatable with the help of a custom night guard from your family dentist.
At Leavitt Dentistry, we specialize in using custom night guards to prevent grinding, relieve TMD symptoms, and protect your teeth. If you find yourself waking up with sore teeth, jaw pain, and headaches, keep reading to learn more about how custom night guards can help you get the peaceful rest you need.
Understanding TMD, Bruxism, and their Causes
Bruxism refers to involuntary teeth grinding or clenching, often during sleep. Because grinding places excessive stress on the muscles and joints in the jaw, it can lead to inflammation and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to TMD.
These issues can occur due to bite alignment or missing teeth, stress and anxiety, sleep disorders, or untreated airway issues.
The symptoms of TMD and bruxism include:
- Jaw pain or tightness
- Tooth sensitivity or wear
- Headaches or migraines, especially after waking
- Clicking or popping with jaw movement
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Neck and shoulder tension
It’s important to note that many patients don’t realize they grind their teeth at night until their dentist identifies signs of wear. That’s why it’s so essential to stay on top of your regular appointments with Dr. Leavitt, who can help protect your teeth and jaw and prevent you from developing TMD.
Custom Night Guards for TMD and Bruxism
Night guards are dental appliances worn while you sleep to protect your teeth from grinding and reduce the tension from your jaw.
At Leavitt Dentistry, we offer custom night guards made from a digital scan of your teeth to ensure a precise fit. While inexpensive over-the-counter night guards are available, they won’t fit correctly and can even worsen bite alignment. When you opt for a custom night guard from us, you can trust that it’s perfectly tailored to your unique smile, crafted from comfortable, high-quality material, and designed for long-term durability.
Custom balanced night guards are an excellent solution for those who suffer from TMD or bruxism because they:
- Prevent enamel wear, cracks, and fractures
- Reduce morning headaches and jaw soreness
- Relax bite muscles, protect jaw joints, and support long-term jaw health
- Prevent future dental work from grinding damage
- Reduce risk of gum recession and tooth sensitivity
- Are designed to correct bite stress, not just prevent grinding
Comparing Night Guards and MAD Devices
At Leavitt Dentistry, we also offer mandibular advancement devices (MAD). While they may seem similar to night guards — both are dental appliances worn at night — they treat different conditions. While night guards protect the teeth and relieve strain on the jaw, MADs are designed to relieve obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. They work by guiding the jaw into the proper position to keep the airway open during sleep.
Sometimes, grinding can be caused by airway obstruction. It’s important to evaluate your symptoms before treatment to ensure the root cause is addressed. That’s what makes Leavitt Dentistry different — not only are we experts in family dentistry like night guards, but Dr. Leavitt has the training and experience needed to look at the bigger picture and determine whether your issues are ultimately caused by sleep apnea. We have the tools to screen you for sleep apnea and work closely with medical professionals when indicated.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
At Leavitt Dentistry, we understand that night guards are part of a comprehensive TMD treatment plan and not a one-size-fits-all-solution. Depending on the root cause of your symptoms, we may also collaborate with medical professionals to treat your airway disorder, provide restorative treatments to repair damage caused by grinding, or suggest lifestyle changes to help you avoid stress.
Dr. Leavitt will perform a thorough exam and TMJ evaluation, discuss your medical history, and analyze your bite to determine whether a custom night guard is right for you. If so, we’ll take a digital scan and use them to fabricate a guard that fits your bite precisely. Once the guard has been fabricated, we’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure your comfort and jaw alignment. We’ll also follow up with you to ensure your TMD and/or bruxism treatment is progressing as it should.
Find Relief from TMD and Bruxism at Leavitt Dentistry
Take the first step toward achieving a more comfortable, pain-free life by contacting Leavitt Dentistry today to schedule a consultation and learn whether a custom night guard is right for you. With our help, you can rest easier knowing that your smile is protected while you sleep.