Occlusal Guard

An occlusal guard can reduce clenching or grinding, which can also restore harmony to the joint. It is used to treat TMJ disorders.

TMJ Disorders, also known as TMD, are cycles of pain , muscle spasms, and joint imbalance where the jaw meets the skull. The cycle of pain, spasms, and joint imbalance can be started by clenching and grinding the teeth, a bad bite caused by missing teeth, or poorly aligned teeth, a blow to the joint, arthritis, or emotional stress.

An occlusal guard, often times paired with occlusal equillibration, is the first course of therapy. Also to restore balance to the joint, we can crown teeth, fill spaces,, or even move teeth. In extremely severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged part of the joint.

Millions of people suffer from TMD. Treatment and lifestyle changes can break the TMD cycle, and restore harmony.

Occlusal Guard – (Also sometimes known as nightguard.) This is an acrylic mouthguard is designed from teeth impressions to cover the biting surfaces of your teeth to minimize the abrasive grinding action during normal sleep. Mouthguards are expected to be worn on a long-term basis to help prevent tooth damage and to help prevent TMJ disorders (jaw joint disorders).

Occlusal and TMJ stability

Once bruxing is under control, we can perform a variety of dental procedures to restore the function of your jaw, and teeth, and restore the pleasant aesthetic appearance to your smile with means of orthodontics, porcelain crowns, gum grafts and crown lengthening. Jaw surgery is only recommended if it is necessary to help improve optimal function. 

Read more about our bruxism treatments.