Night guards can play a significant role in managing TMD by alleviating the stress and strain placed on the jaw joints and muscles during sleep. By acting as a cushion, they help to distribute the force of teeth grinding or clenching more evenly, reducing the likelihood of further injury to the temporomandibular joint.
For those with TMD, we often recommend a splint, a type of night guard that covers a larger surface area of the teeth. This design helps to stabilize the bite and promote proper alignment, which can lead to significant pain relief and improvement in jaw function over time.