TMJ night guard is not always a good idea. When you use something the way it was designed, it works. When you use something wrong, it doesn't work. If you have a broken leg and you only want to wear your orthopedic cast during the night, the night cast doesn't work! It didn't work because a broken leg needs 24 hour support, not just support at night. A patient who is having a severe TMJ problem is in the same situation.

         A TMJ night guard is not very helpful with most TMJ Dysfunction patients. The inflamed and painful jaw joints need a vacation and a rest so they can heal. The guard needs to be worn full time, other than eating, for at least a whole week for it to help. Dr. Padolsky also prefers a soft guard which reduces tooth clenching and tooth grinding. Hard plastic appliances tend to make patients grind, especially at night and patients often wake up with tight and painful muscles.

         The TMJ night guard is not the only solution. The painful and tight jaw and neck muscles need to rest and to be rehabilitated. TMJ tends to involve many lifestyle issues and most patients in pain have to improve their lives to see improvement. There's no magic pill to take that will heal a lack of sleep or lack of exercise.

       If you are looking for a help and would like to see a dentist experienced in treating TMJ, please consider the Atlanta Dental Group PC. To see what will work for your situation, it's best to schedule a complete dental examination before considering a TMJ night guard. Our dentists are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being and you are welcome to join our family of patients. If you would like to make an appointment with Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky,our TMJ Dentist, please call 404-874-7428.