TMJ Orthotics
What is the Purpose of a TMJ Orthotic?
TMJ Orthotics are designed with three purposes in mind. First, TMJ Orthotics hold the muscles at their correct resting length which is their most relaxed position. Putting the muscles in their most relaxed position for a significant amount of time will help to bring the muscles out of their dysfunctional state, thereby reducing pain. Second, TMJ Orthotics will decompress the jaw joints – taking the pressure off the joints. This will slow down the rate of wear and tear in the jaw joints AND it can allow the disc of cartilage to get back into or remain in proper alignment. Lastly, TMJ Orthotic will protect your teeth against the enormous forces of clenching and grinding.
TMJ Dentist Dr. Priya Mistry usually recommends that you wear your TMJ Orthotic 22/7 during their treatment. As symptoms subside, you will reach a point in treatment when Dr. Mistry recommends that you taper off wearing the orthotic during the daytime. Most people continue to wear the orthotic indefinitely at nighttime, as it keeps the muscles and joints stable.
Can I Buy a TMJ Orthotic at the Store or Online?
Precise measurements must be taken to fabricate a TMJ Orthotic. They cannot be bought online or at a store. TMJ Orthotics are not a one-size-fits-all appliance! You may have seen nightguards in stores or while browsing online from suppliers that promise to provide TMJ relief without visiting a doctor. But we advise against purchasing an over-the-counter TMJ orthotic or even a nightguard because it could damage your jaw joints and worsen your condition. You should never wear a TMJ Orthotic without direct supervision from a skilled and experienced TMJ Dentist.
Are TMJ Orthotics Comfortable?
Generally, yes, TMJ Orthotics are comfortable. They are custom fit to your teeth with as little material as possible on the tongue side. They are also made to relieve pressure and reduce pain in the muscles and the jaw joints, thereby relieving your temporomandibular joint dysfunction and its symptoms. If you wear your TMJ Orthotic during the day, you may experience an adjustment period as you get used to and comfortable speaking while wearing your prescribed orthotic.
TMJ/TMD Dentist in Vancouver, WA – near Portland, OR
Have more questions about TMJ/TMD or therapies to relieve TMJ dysfunction? To learn more about the temporomandibular joint dysfunction therapies that we offer at The TMJ Doc, click here. Remember that TMJ/TMD is a chronic, progressive disorder and waiting on treatment will likely lead to worsening of symptoms.