Ok, Dr. Spainhower here,
I’ve written a report about TMJ Guards titled the “Truth About Mouth Guards” ebook that you can download from my review page. But, I’ll highlight a few points from that report here for you.
Almost any device placed in your mouth as an appliance, TMJ Guard, splint, night guard etc. No matter the design has the possibility to give relief. Most can do this. However, after a few weeks, most will or can start to cause pain again. It has to do with proprioception and muscle engrams.
When Gritting teeth in sleep occur, or when you have teeth clenching at night, most devices placed in the mouth will promote more clenching that encourage you to grind teeth in sleep. Your teeth will be protected from the effects of grinding so that your teeth won’t wear down, but the muscles are over working and can cause fatigue and pains.
There are very few TMJ Guards on the market (OTC or internet) to choose from. Most appliances you see advertised are made to protect your teeth from grinding and wearing your teeth down, but are usually quite harmful for your TMJ issues. Many can cause Lockjaw symptoms as well.
So, in my review through links on this website will demonstrate which TMJ Guards work a little and which help a lot. Most night guards however come far from reducing your pains…because they aren’t designed to reduce pain, they are designed to protect teeth. Unfortunately, they usually actually cause symptoms for TMJ.
So, click on any of the links here to check out the reviews. Good luck and may you be blessed with better TMJ health!
