A dysfunction causes Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ). Usually, the jaw joints are affected, which can lead to severe pain and discomfort. A study shows that around 12% of the population in the United States is affected by TMJ disorder. 

There can be many symptoms that can indicate the presence of the disorder. You might experience pain around your ear, difficulty in having food without pain, etc, which are the symptoms of TMJ. 

Among the causes of TMJ, the most commonly noted cause is teeth grinding. Those who have a habit of clenching or grinding teeth are at higher risk of developing the disorder. Usually, it happens when a person is asleep. 

A night mouth guard prevents grinding and clenching. It has proven to be highly effective in treating TMJ disorder. In Stouffville, residents believe in maintaining their overall health. 

Thus, night mouthguards have been in use for quite some time, and their use is only increasing with time. Stouffville dentist can make a custom-made mouthguard for you based on your dental needs. They are usually made to fit upper teeth or lower ones. 

How do TMJ mouthguards help individuals?

• They help correct the position of your jaw and adjust it to help correct your bite. 
• Prevent teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. 
• It gives your muscles time to relax.
• It makes it less likely to click or lock the jaw.

How much do Night Mouthguards cost?

The amount can vary depending on the needs of the individual. You can expect a custom-fitted night mouthguard to be around five hundred dollars. It might be costly for many, but it is also the most effective option to prevent TMJ disorder. 

If you get a night mouthguard from an online retailer, it might cost you less. It may be around a hundred to two hundred dollars. There are over-the-counter options as well that are not custom-made but rather have one size to fit everybody’s teeth. 

They are even the cheapest among the three options. They cost you around 10-15 dollars. It might be the most affordable option, but you are risking your health. 

Since they are not going to fit your teeth properly, they can cause damage and exacerbate the damage. Consulting a dentist in such cases may prove to be much more helpful. They can help you choose the best option for your teeth. 

What are the different types of mouthguards?

NTI-TSS

 The nociceptive trigeminal inhibition tension suppression system (NTI-TSS) is a mouthguard that covers the two teeth at the front. They are made out of resin material to cover teeth. Such mouthguards prevent people from grinding both the upper teeth and lower ones. It helps in keeping teeth away from grinding during sleep. Furthermore, the chances of migraines and headaches are less, too. 

Repositioning Splint 

It moves the mandible (lower jaw) and helps release pressure from the jaws. The mandible moves forward and backward with the help of the repositioning splint. In this way, it helps in correcting misalignment in teeth. 

Stabilisation Splint 

It helps in relaxing the jaw and prevents grinding. However, such splints do not prevent clenching but save tooth enamel. It can be used for those who have a habit of grinding teeth. 

While choosing the option, you need to make sure it aligns with your preferences. A dentist can help you find the best solution for your problem. 

Are there any alternate treatments for TMJ disorders?

There can be other options to treat TMJ disorders. However, the most effective one is considered to be custom-fitted night mouthguards. Here are some of the alternatives:

• To reduce pain, you can use cold or hot compressors.
• You can also use medications to get relief from pain.
• There are different exercises to make jaw muscles more flexible.
• If other options have been exhausted, then you might need surgery.