Are Night Guards & TMJ Orthotics Good for Your Teeth?
A properly designed and fitted night guard can help protect your teeth and restorations from damage caused by grinding and clenching, including excessive wear and cracks. A TMJ orthotic may provide similar protection while also helping manage jaw joint or muscle symptoms. However, neither appliance necessarily stops grinding or clenching.
Some custom-made appliances may also help maintain tooth position, but not every night guard or TMJ orthotic functions as a retainer. Tooth movement or bite changes can still occur, so regular follow-up visits are important to check the fit and monitor your bite.
What is the Downside of Wearing a Night Guard/TMJ Orthotic Splint?
Possible side effects include:
Excessive drooling (especially when first wearing the appliance)
Change in your bite
Gum irritation
Tooth tenderness
Even custom-made appliances require regular follow-up visits with your specialist to check the fit, monitor for bite changes, and make adjustments for comfort.
How Long is it Recommended to Wear a TMJ splint?
The recommended duration depends on your diagnosis, the type of TMJ splint, and your response to treatment.
Flat-plane stabilization appliances may be used long term with regular monitoring.Anterior repositioning appliances and certain daytime appliances are generally prescribed for shorter periods, depending on their design and treatment purpose. Your specialist will determine the appropriate wearing schedule based on your condition and response to treatment.