If you suffer from jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, you know how debilitating these conditions can be. Fortunately, there are solutions that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort, such as dental splints. In this blog post, we’ll explore how dental splints can help with jaw pain and TMJ disorders.
What are TMJ Disorders?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to open and close your mouth. TMJ disorders refer to a range of conditions that affect this joint and the muscles that control it. Some common symptoms of TMJ disorders include:
- Jaw pain
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Clicking or popping sounds when you chew or speak
- Ear pain
- Headaches
TMJ disorders can be caused by a number of factors, including teeth grinding, stress, misaligned teeth, and arthritis. If left untreated, these conditions can worsen and cause more severe symptoms, so it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
What are Dental Splints?
Dental splints are custom-made devices that fit over your teeth and are designed to help alleviate symptoms of TMJ disorders. They work by repositioning your jaw and reducing the amount of pressure on your TMJ, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort. There are several different types of dental splints available, including:
- Stabilization splints: These splints are designed to stabilize your jaw and prevent it from moving around too much. They’re typically worn at night and can help reduce teeth grinding and clenching.
- Bite guards: Bite guards are designed to protect your teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching. They’re typically worn at night and can help reduce the amount of pressure on your TMJ.
- Repositioning splints: These splints are designed to reposition your jaw and reduce pressure on your TMJ. They’re typically worn during the day and can help alleviate pain and discomfort.
How Can Dental Splints Help with Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders?
Dental splints can help with jaw pain and TMJ disorders in a number of ways. For one, they can help reduce the amount of pressure on your TMJ, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort. Additionally, dental splints can help reposition your jaw, which can help reduce muscle tension and improve your bite alignment.
In some cases, dental splints can also help alleviate symptoms of bruxism, which is a condition characterized by teeth grinding and clenching. Bruxism can cause significant damage to your teeth and can exacerbate symptoms of TMJ disorders, so it’s important to address this condition as soon as possible.
Are Dental Splints Right for You?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of jaw pain or TMJ disorders, it’s important to speak with your dentist about treatment options. Dental splints may be a good option for you if you’re experiencing pain or discomfort related to your TMJ, or if you’re experiencing symptoms of bruxism.
Your dentist can help you determine which type of dental splint is right for you and can provide you with guidance on how to properly use and care for your splint.
Bottom Line
Dental splints can be a highly effective treatment option for jaw pain and TMJ disorders. By reducing pressure on your TMJ and repositioning your jaw, these devices can help alleviate pain and discomfort and improve your overall quality of life.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorders or bruxism, be sure to speak with your dentist at Smiles on Greatwood about treatment options, including dental splints. With proper care and use, dental splints can be an effective and long-lasting solution to these conditions. Call us now at 281-937-7530 to schedule an appointment.