Are Night Guards the Best Option for TMJ?
If you’ve been dealing with jaw pain, clicking, or discomfort, there’s a good chance that at some point, your dentist has suggested a night guard. And for some people, it’s exactly what they need—especially if teeth grinding (bruxism) is the primary concern.
But if your main issue is TMJ dysfunction, a standard night guard might not be the right solution.
What Are Night Guards Actually Designed For?
Most night guards made by general dentists are primarily meant to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching. The goal is simple: if you’re grinding your teeth at night, a night guard prevents wear and tear on your enamel, which can lead to fractures, sensitivity, or long-term damage.
This is important because if you’re actively damaging your teeth, you probably need something to protect them—at least in the short term. But that doesn’t necessarily mean a standard night guard is the best treatment for your TMJ.
Why Night Guards Don’t Always Work for TMJ
I’ve seen plenty of patients over the years who were given a night guard and either found no relief or actually got worse. Some common issues include:
The night guard changes the way the jaw sits – If it doesn’t properly support your joint, it can actually make TMJ symptoms worse over time.
Some people subconsciously fight the night guard – You might clench against it, leading to more jaw tension instead of less.
Discomfort or poor fit – Some people find them unbearable to wear, and I’ve had many patients tell me they spit them out in their sleep without realizing it.
High cost without insurance coverage – Many night guards aren’t covered by medical or dental insurance, so you could end up paying hundreds of dollars for something that doesn’t help or that you can’t even wear.
What’s a Better Alternative?
If you truly need a stabilizing bite splint, it’s often better to get one made by a specialist—someone who focuses specifically on TMJ, occlusion (how your teeth come together), and jaw stability.
General dentists are incredible at what they do, and they should absolutely be the ones managing the health of your teeth. But when it comes to TMJ-related issues, it’s often best to see an orofacial pain specialist, prosthodontist, or another provider with advanced training in this area.
So, Should You Get a Night Guard?
It depends.
If you’re actively damaging your teeth from grinding, you may need one—at least temporarily—to prevent harm.
If your main issue is TMJ pain, a standard night guard might not be the best solution and could even make things worse.
If you’re not sure, a TMJ-trained physical therapist or an orofacial pain specialist can help you figure out what’s best for you.
If you’ve been struggling with jaw pain, clicking, or discomfort, and aren’t sure whether a night guard is the right approach, reach out. We can help determine what’s actually causing your pain and whether physical therapy, a different type of splint, or another treatment might be a better option.
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