Mouthguards, Bruxism, & TMD in South Calgary, De Winton & Okotoks

Keeping Your Teeth, Jaw, & Gums Healthy

When we fall asleep, we can do many things we might not be aware of. Snoring, grinding our teeth, and clenching our jaws can all lead to waking up sore and unrested. However, besides the unfortunate side effects, it may not always be possible to tell if we’re doing things in our sleep that affect our health without our dentist’s help!

Fortunately, there are many options available to avoid permanent damage and daily discomfort. Mouthguards can be an excellent treatment to save your teeth’ integrity and relieve any associated headaches and jaw pain.

If you’re interested in exploring the cause of your jaw pain and discomfort, we would love to help. Please contact our office to book your appointment today!

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What Are Mouthguards?

Mouthguards are customized devices used to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching while you sleep. You can also use mouthguards for protection from injuries while you play sports.

There are a few different types of mouthguards:

Stock mouthguards typically only cover the top teeth and can be purchased in most drug stores.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards involve (as the name suggests) boiling them to soften the material and biting down on them to mould them to your teeth.
Custom-made mouthguards are the most effective if you’re looking for relief from sleep-related issues. These mouthguards provide the best fit and are the least likely to dislodge while you sleep.

The type of mouthguard you use depends heavily on what you intend to use it for. For most moderate-contact sports, a stock or boil-and-bite mouthguard should suffice. However, if you’re experiencing jaw pain or are looking to treat a specific issue, custom mouthguards are usually the better choice.

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the term used to describe grinding, clenching, or gnashing your teeth while you sleep. The condition may cause you to unconsciously clench your teeth while you’re awake as well without noticing you’re doing it.

Mild bruxism may not always require treatment. However, if the condition worsens, it can lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth, and many other issues. You may not notice you’re experiencing bruxism until complications develop, so it’s crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms and regularly see your dentist for exams.

Symptoms of bruxism include:

Teeth grinding or clenching
Flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose teeth
Worn tooth enamel
Increased tooth pain or sensitivity
Tired or tight jaw muscles
A locked jaw that won’t open or close completely
Pain or soreness in the jaw, neck, or face
Earaches
Dull headaches
Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheeks
Fatigue from the inability to get a good night’s rest

If you notice signs of bruxism, it’s best to make an appointment with your dentist.

What Is TMD?

TMD, or temporomandibular disorders, is the name given to jaw movement issues and pain in the jaw joints. TMD is sometimes referred to as TMJ or TM disorders.

The jaw joints are referred to as the temporomandibular (TM) joints and connect the lower jawbone (mandible) to the skull. These joints are used more often than any other in the human body and are used to open and close the jaw for talking, chewing, swallowing, yawning, and many other movements.

Symptoms of TMD include:

Joint pain
Muscle pain
Headaches
Clicking or popping sound in the joint
Difficulty opening the mouth
Jaw locking

If you experience pain or difficulty moving your jaw, you may have TMD. TMD is generally caused by muscle tension, which can be triggered by stress. Many individuals find themselves clenching or grinding their teeth when they’re stressed, which can tire the jaw muscles and lead to muscle spasms, tissue damage, pain, and sore muscles. Talking to your dentist can help identify the problem and find you relief.

Book Your Appointment Today!

If you suspect you may be experiencing TMD or are having trouble sleeping, your dentist may be able to help. Contact our office to book an appointment!

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Where to Find Us

Find us on the corner of Pine Creek Road and Heritage Lake Drive, right beside Pizza on Pointe. We are 5 minutes away from the Heritage Pointe Golf Club.