At Tooth Architect Dental Care of Sandy Springs, Georgia, Dr. Shiva Talebi serves patients in her community and provides more than just cleanings and fillings. Her full-service dental office cares for other concerns, including temporomandibular joint disorder and bruxism. Many patients with bruxism may benefit from an appliance known as a TMJ dental guard. Let’s look closely at these appliances and how they can assist with both conditions.

Here are four reasons why a TMJ dental guard may be recommended for bruxism:

• Protects teeth from grinding and clenching. A TMJ dental guard is a device that is worn over the teeth to protect them from grinding and clenching, also known as bruxism. This condition causes irreversible damage to the natural teeth, including cracks, chips, and wear on the enamel. By wearing a dental guard, the force of grinding or clenching is distributed evenly across the teeth rather than being focused on one spot, reducing the risk of damage.
• Eases jaw pain and discomfort. Bruxism might also lead to jaw pain and discomfort due to the continuous strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). A dental guard helps alleviate this pain by providing a flat surface between the upper and lower teeth, preventing teeth from grinding. It allows the jaw muscles to relax and reduces tension in the TMJ. This can also help with headaches, migraines, Neck and lower back pain and earaches often associated with bruxism.
• Improves sleep quality. Many individuals who suffer from bruxism experience disrupted sleep patterns due to constant clenching or grinding of their teeth. This can often lead to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating during the day. Wearing a TMJ dental guard at night makes the individual less likely to clench or grind their teeth, resulting in a better night’s sleep and improved overall quality of life.
• Prevents dental work from being damaged. Some patients with dental work, such as crowns, bridges, or implants, may be more prone to damage from bruxism. A TMJ dental guard can act as a protective barrier for these restorations, preventing them from being damaged by the excessive force of grinding and clenching. Avoid costly repairs or replacements can save the individual time and money.

What is another type of treatment that can be used for TMJ/TMD?

Another treatment that can also address this condition is Botox. Botox is a medication that can be injected into the muscles around the jaw, relaxing overdeveloped muscles that can contribute to grinding with heavier forces and cause discomfort and even breaking teeth.

Schedule an appointment with our Tooth Architect Dental Care team in Sandy Springs, Georgia, today!

Dr. Shiva Talebi and her Tooth Architect Dental Care team believe in providing comprehensive dental care for new and returning patients. To schedule a consultation appointment, call (404) 666-8066 if you’re looking for a dentist’s office to help with bruxism treatment and solutions for common dental issues. We welcome new patients and their families and are easily accessible at 6667 Vernon Woods Drive NE, Suite B-30.

Share this Article