If you're experiencing a sore jaw or frequent headaches, you could be suffering from a common issue called Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD).
TMJD is believed to occur as a result of clenching or grinding the teeth while sleeping, arthritis, or other stresses or trauma that can cause injury to the jaw/joint.
What are other symptoms of TMJD?
If you’re experiencing some or all of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from TMJD:
- Sticking or locking of the jaw in one position when you open or close your mouth.
- The sound of clicking or popping of the jaw joint when you move your jaw and open or close your mouth.
- Headache, discomfort, or pain in the jaw joint, neck/shoulders, around the ear, or when you speak or swallow.
- A fatigued sensation in the face.
Treating TMJD with an occlusal splint/night guard
At Silverwood Dental, we offer various treatment options for a sore jaw, including an occlusal splint or night guard. These dental appliances are designed to prevent your teeth from touching or grinding against one another. They also help correct bite issues by forcing the jaw to rest in a correct position. Our night guards and occlusal splints are made from acrylic resin.
What’s the difference between an occlusal splint and a night guard?
They are the same dental appliance, however, in more extreme cases, an occlusal splint might be prescribed for wear 24 hours a day, therefore in this instance it would not be referred to as a night guard. There are different options for how this dental appliance is constructed, and whether it's placed on your upper or lower teeth. Your dentist in Saskatoon will assess your condition, and recommend which option is right for you. At your dental exam, we will assess your face and jaw, and chat about your symptoms or discomfort to create the best treatment plan for you. In more extreme cases of TMJD, referral to a specialist may be required.
Treating migraines or headaches with an NTI-TSS occlusal splint
Nociceptive Trigeminal Inhibition Tension Suppression System (NTI-TSS) is a type of occlusal splint that is designed to help prevent headaches and migraines by eliminating or reducing the occurrence of teeth grinding and clenching – a term coined bruxism - while you snooze. An NTI-TSS occlusal splint fits over the front teeth - either at the top or bottom - to prevent your canines and molars from touching, thus relaxing the muscles that can cause clenching and grinding, reducing the chances of a headache.
If you’re experiencing a sore face or jaw, or have questions about night guards or occlusal splints, call our Saskatoon dental clinic to schedule an assessment - 306.242.5233.
Dr. Michael Rosenhek
Dr. Kris Marshall
3-75 Lenore Dr.
Saskatoon, SK
S7K 7Y1