TL;DR
Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
For individuals suffering from TMJ disorders, custom-fitted mouthguards are often recommended due to their ability to provide a tailored fit that addresses specific dental and jaw alignment issues. Many users have found relief with mouthguards designed specifically by dentists or TMJ specialists [1:3]
[1:5]. A popular option is the NTI mouthguard, which covers only the front teeth and helps relax the jaw
[1:1]. Another highly regarded type is the Michigan-style splint, which is custom-fitted and adjusted over several appointments to ensure optimal effectiveness
[1:7].
Online and DIY Options
While custom mouthguards are preferred, some users have had success with online services that offer custom-fit guards at a lower cost than traditional dental visits. Companies like JS Dental provide mail-in kits for creating dental impressions, though adjustments can be time-consuming [2:1]
[2:3]. For immediate needs, some users have turned to temporary solutions like Grindreliefpro, which can be molded at home and offers some relief until a more permanent solution is available
[4:2].
OTC Mouthguards
Over-the-counter (OTC) mouthguards are generally not recommended for TMJ issues as they often lack the precision fit required to alleviate symptoms effectively. Users report that these can sometimes exacerbate jaw pain rather than relieve it [4:1]. However, in situations where immediate relief is needed and professional help isn't accessible, some OTC options like boil-and-bite guards might provide temporary relief
[4:5].
Cost Considerations
The cost of custom mouthguards can be high, ranging from $400 to over $1,200 depending on the complexity and the specialist involved [1:12]. While this may seem steep, many users find the investment worthwhile due to the significant improvement in quality of life and symptom relief
[1:4]. Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost, so it's worth checking with your provider
[5:6].
In summary, if you're dealing with TMJ, investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard from a specialist is generally the best route. While more expensive, these devices are tailored to your specific needs and can significantly improve symptoms. If budget constraints are an issue, exploring reputable online options could be a viable alternative, but caution is advised with OTC products.
I do clench at night sometimes although I don’t think that’s what caused my tmj
Mine started suddenly last year after eating something crunchy
Then I noticed clicking on the left side tenderness near the joint and restricted opening.
After while the tenderness was sort of gone but would I would feel when I press on the joint or massage it
I do notice that while I never clenched before the clicking started I notice I do now
I don’t have insurance and was quoted 1200 for a mouthguard but I’m not even sure if it will work
Some people said mouthguards made it worse but I have no choice but try something
Before spending money though I need the right kind of mouthguard and I feel like the one that is built up in the back is best for me or in a way where I can’t really close my mouth to clench
What would this be called? There’s so many splints, nightguard etc
There is an enormous difference between what is typically called a mouth guard (can buy at a drug store for $20) and what is typically called a splint (tailored to you by a professional to ensure you get a proper bite, costing 1,000+). I tried a cheap mouth guard without success and I tried another splint that was like an NTI style (teeth only touch at the front) without success. Then I tried a $1,200 Michigan style splint that my TMJD specialist spent hours over several appointments testing, adjusting, waiting, etc to ensure it was exactly right for my bite. When you bring your teeth together, the pressure of the bite should be even across all teeth, the jaw should be centered, when you grind side to side the pressure should shift to the canines so they guide the movement, etc. The 1200 dollars I paid wasn't for the plastic, it was for the personalization of the plastic to give me a relaxed and healthy "home" for my jaw at night. And it worked wonders.
Seconded. My customized TMJ splint with more “equalized” myocentric spots has eased many of my symptoms. Extremely expensive but after seeing many costly but ineffective specialists, at least this option improved my quality of life
Would you be willing to pm me a picture of what it looks like? Not wearing of course just so I know the shape or maybe if you see a similar one online?
Sadly I have no luck where I live in fl getting help with my tmj I have seen nearly 10 dentists for my tmj and also with extracting a wisdom tooth and so far no one has been accommodating
Would you be willing to pm me a picture of what it looks like or find a pic online?
I just tried to google it but while google images has pictures it’s not letting me copy the link
It looks it goes on your top teeth only and there a thicker piece of the hard plastic where your top front teeth are?
I think my main problem is finding a helpful dentist. If you happen to know anyone in fl or ga pm me :( as most orofacials and tmj dentists I’ve seen aren’t that great and have been dismissive
If there was one thing I learned, it was to never ever get a mouthguard/sportsguard for TMJ. It absolutely would contribute to making what could be a minor TMJ disorder into something much more complicated. This is what happened to me. The difference between off the shelf mouth guards and custom fitted ones is wide ranging. Even the materials of what they’re made with and how a TMJ custom made splint is fitted, along with regular checkups and adjustments at the beginning of your ‘splint therapy’. When I finally did get a splint made by an oral surgeon with TMJD specialties, it was not long before the clicking and popping stopped. Also, since then, found a hospital with a dentistry wing that had orofacial/dental pain specialists, ENTs and neurologists to get the full spectrum analysis of what’s going on around your jaw joints. You do not want to through what I did am still experiencing because I didn’t think I needed to spend that $600 in getting a properly fitted splint. Sometimes they’re one piece and two piece splints. There’s over 32 different kind of TMJ disorders out there and all require very specific kinds of treatments.
I had severe Tmj. I dealt with it for several years. No doctor could assist. Finally went to a tmj specialist. He said I had a stretched ligament on the right side of my jaw. He took a mold of my teeth and did some other stuff, and then custom made a mouth guard for me. I began wearing this during the day and at night, and eventually just at night. I went back several times to see him so he could adjust it and make it tighter. The last time I saw him he made it really tight. I wore it every night for several years, meaning three or more, and the tmj went away. Occasionally it comes back usually from working out at the gym. But I just wear the guard for several days or a week and it goes away. I live in the USA by the way.
I sent you a pm if thats ok. I’ve seen a few “tmj specialists” but most are expensive and I’m not sure what will work. They kind of seem like they just want to sell me something
Is your dentist a general one or an orofacial specialist? Also can you describe the shape of the guard or see anything similar online?
A general one. They took a few X-rays of my teeth and made it fit my bite. It’s a clear mouth guard
My dentist believes the only "cure" is a mouth guard and monthly botox. Everything's I've done is either recommendations from my mom (retired lic. physical therapist who has tmj) or trial and error.
I have a hard plastic one made by my dentist for about $400. They can be covered under insurance. Took about 2 weeks to get used to. I pop it in for naps too.
I had a custom mouthguard made for me by my dentist. The brand is NTI and it’s actually used to stop migraines, but also helps tremendously with TMJ or even just severe bruxism. I call it “the chipmunk tooth” because it only covers the two front teeth, and allows the back of the mouth to relax. I was told by my dentist that, in my case, a full mouth guard would actually do more damage because it would provide an another surface for my teeth to grind into. I have been using this mouthguard for about 4 months and my symptoms have improved dramatically. I am definitely not back to normal, and not sure if I ever will be, but this mouthguard has made things a lot more manageable.https://www.proteethguard.com/blog/nti-night-guard/
I'm trying to find a good night guard, any recs?
my invisaline retainer works so good
JS Dental has worked well for me.
I've tried a variety of night guards, both from dentists and from online, and the only ones I've found to really work at from a dentist, preferably one who specializes in TMJ too. I know they're way more expensive, but IMO it's worth it because you get someone who is an expert and can get in-person adjustments, both when you're getting it fitted and in a few weeks once you get some time to try it out. I also tried JS Dental, who does do adjustments back and forth through shipping, but the small adjustments take a long time and I never got it to be as fully comfortable as from the dentist. Also, I broke through one of my dentists' night guards in a few weeks and the dentist was able to make me another, more durable one free of charge. It's a lot more expensive to get a guard from the dentist, but the one I've had now has been going strong for 4+ years. Worth it imo.
Pretty straightforward question! In the U.S. I know people swear by JD Labs but I can't get it here. What is the best online molding company? I don't mind spending a bit, but I just can't do the dentist fees. Thankfully my clenching isn't horrific yet and I'm really trying to prevent more severe TMJ
I got mine free from the NHS dentist, I didnt even ask, she just took one look at my teeth and got me moulded up for one.
Are you registered with NHS dentistry? I am natively an American citizen so I admit I am still sorting out the NHS system. Will I need a referral to a dentist then as well? Thank you!
No, you just need to be signed up to an NHS dentist (find one in your local area) and then make an appointment. Assuming you are eligable
I couldn't find one that I trusted enough to purchase. I bit the bullet and went private. They gave me 0% finance, and with the visits to check alignment, it was about £750-£1000. A bit pricey, but i know that my TMJ is gonna be fixed.
I’ve had TMJ for my entire life. Luckily, I’ve never had a problem with clenching my jaw and grinding my teeth until now. But over the last couple months, it’s been starting here and there. Currently, it has reached nuclear levels. I can catch it in the daytime and stop myself but now I’m noticing I’m doing it in my sleep.
I know I can’t use an OTC mouthguard. And I can’t get into the dentist for a while. I’m very concerned about chipping a tooth. Is there any solution that could help now?
Is there is one at a drug store I can get this weekend or are they all going to mess up my jaw?
P.S. The Grindreliefpro nightguard/splint saved me from going nuts. If you buy it, maybe you should buy two, because you have to mold it yourself, and you might want to use some of the gel from one to add to the one you will use, because you might prefer more gel. I always pushed the gel to the center because I wanted it thicker in the middle. Just please be careful when molding to not leave it in your mouth too long. It could get stuck. You can mold it as many times as you want. I'm here to help. :)
There's a good nightguard/splint that sits only on your lower front teeth, allowing your masseter muscle to relax: Google: Grindreliefpro (about $33).
I ordered one online years ago. They send you a kit and you make the impression and send it back. It worked out pretty well and was a lot cheaper than at the dentist.
I forgot my night guard on a trip once, and I was able to get a pretty decent splint for bruxism at Target at my destination
We are in the same boat with TMJ and sleep grinding. Honestly the otc boil and bite guards didn't cut it for me either. They felt bulky and actually made my jaw ache more. I got a custom clear club night guard and use it every night. It's comfortable, protective, and way less stress on my jaw.
So I started training BJJ a few months ago and have a subpar mouth guard I picked up but I want one that conforms to the mouth the best so that I can still talk yet remains very effective. I heard Gladiator is a good brand but I still want more input. I don't mind spending the money as long as it's not too crazy in price. Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Damage control makes some pretty nice custom fit mouthguard. I wouldn't say they are the easiest thing to talk with but they're definitely the most confertable mouth guard I have tired.
Yes! I’ve been using them for the last 3 years and it’s great with an affordable price. Just boil and bit: https://www.dcmouthguards.com/collections/bjj-mouth-guard
And the designs are pretty dope
Check out Impact Mouth Guards. (impactmouthguards.com). It's alot like a dental guard in that they send you stuff to create an impression mould. Then use that mould to create you guard. I think mine was 100% worth it. I've also used a sisu mouth guard which is supposed to work well but I had nasty bump that caused a tooth infection even with the guard.
I second this. Im not paid or sponsored. I went through like 4 mouth guards before bucking up and getting one of these. Well worth it
I got one of these while boxing. Worth the money
Best mouth guard.
Came here to say this
Ridiculously good quality, and forget you’re even wearing one. Drinking water, and talking is fine. You barely have a lisp when using it.
Have owned the same one for about 5 years, and have remolded it several times. Super easy to use. Love it
I’d recommend having your dentist make you one. If you have insurance it’s very affordable.
I went with a solid color blue one https://www.impactmouthguards.com/collections/solid-colors
Mainly because I thought paying extra for the silly designs was just silly.
I went through a bunch of different mouthguards and will say the SISU mouthguards are perfect for BJJ. Not sure I'd like them if I was still doing striking stuff on the regular, in which case I'd ante up for the custom giards from Impact or similar. The SISU's are stupidly comfortable to the point I forget I'm wearing one so I've always got it in which is how it actually works, unlike crappier ones you hate and wait to put them in until rolling. There's always the random accidental knee in drilling here and there, get the SISU and put it in before getting on the mat at all.
Interesting. I heard about SISU mouthguards before and while some say they were amazing, others were saying that the holes in them shredded up their gums and lips? I have no idea personally just wondering if you had any experience where that had happened?
Solids on down. The Powerlifting and night guard are are for lifting and sleep.
I’m new to this TMJ disorder world. My dentist says it probably stems from a few bad habits such as grinding my teeth at night and gritting my teeth at the gym. The pain hasn’t been that bad and I’ve been seeing a physical therapist for like a week but the bite is still uneven.
I bought a dental guard from CVS (DenTek was the name of the brand). I’m wondering if anyone has had any progress/ success using a guard not customized by a dentist. I’d prefer to avoid paying for the dentist’s bite guard if these issues can be mitigated with an over the counter one.
https://youtu.be/-igq9hw4fvM?si=SUF-oyeGTUpYqfFr
Over-the-counter splints are a waste of money in my opinion. See a specialist in TMJ, bruxism, and posture.
My teeth feel a bit sore after my last sparring session. It makes me paranoid that I’ll get them knocked out. Is my mouth guard a cheap pos? Or am I fine? I don’t want to find out, I want an Uber reliable one. I see some that are upwards of $100 but those aren’t for sports.
Can someone point me towards some quality options so I can pick out a nice one? I’d like somewhere to start looking.
https://www.impactmouthguards.com/discount/DAVIDPULLEY?ref=DP10
Theses are what I use. Hands down the best I have ever used. Feel free to shop via the link for a discount!
These are custom fit using a molded dental impression.
I believe they're the best quality and fit you can get and will not break your wallet!
I use an Impact mouthguard. It’s custom fitted.
I tried getting custom from my dentist, but it turned out he was extremely unfamiliar with doing them because so few people ever asked. He said he would do it and he’d “cut me a deal” of $350 for the service since he doesn’t do them often.
Impact was about $100 total when all was said and done, and all they do is make custom mouthguards all day using molds you take and send them.
I would go with Impact, or another company that follows that type of process.
I’m on the impact website. What does their fire dragon sticker look like?
https://www.impactmouthguards.com/discount/DAVIDPULLEY?ref=DP10
Theses are what I use. Hands down the best I have ever used. Feel free to shop via the link for a discount!
These are custom fit using a molded dental impression.
I believe they're the best quality and fit you can get and will not break your wallet!
I have no idea. I just got their translucent one using the kit sold through Amazon.
Best of the best is going yo your dentist and asking for a custom made.
Retail "boil and byte" mouthguard are all not that reliable
Yep, going the dentist/fully custom mouthguard route is pricey but absolutely worth it if you're planning on being in the game for a while.
I like fairtex but if it doesnt cost you 400 to make then go to a dentist just ask their prices
https://www.impactmouthguards.com/discount/DAVIDPULLEY?ref=DP10Theses are what I use. Hands down the best I have ever used. Feel free to shop via the link for a discount!
These are custom fit using a molded impression.
I believe they're the best quality and fit you can get and will not break your wallet!
Title pretty much explained it but last time I went to the dentist they said I should get a custom mouth guard especially for sleep. I am constantly clenching my teeth and during sleep it’s even worse. I try hard to be conscious of it and stop but I’m often in this state. This is also affecting my face, causing pain and headaches which then prevents me from doing things or feeling good. This ends up affecting my life in so many ways. So goes the cycle… Anybody else have experience with this? He mentioned it would be like 500$… I’ve tried the drug store one you boil and mold but being in my mouth made me want to chew it more.
One drawback to a custom one is if you have any work done on your teeth it may not fit anymore. I had a root canal and crown, and now 1 year after paying several hundred dollars for a custom one it no longer fits right. I got one of the boil types, and like you, OP, it makes me want to chew and clench.
Another thing is while a mouth guard will protect you from clenching damage, it won’t actually stop clenching. I’ve actually had 2 custom ones (years apart) and continue to clench with all the pain that goes along with it.
Similar situation here! Waiting to finish dental work before I get a custom guard
Custom nigh guards from the dentist are the only way to go. Any cheap ones online will make your grinding and teeth alignment worse.
Do you have any experience with one? What are you getting out of it by spending 500$ or around that price? Is it durable? Is it perfect fitting? I don’t know it’s been overwhelming me to deal with it
Mine was $1200 for 4 custom made for my mouth with a 3D scan. It’s so far stopped my grinding and will prevent my teeth from moving. It fits perfectly to my mouth, you want these guards to fit very tight.
Sigh. At 71F, I deeply regret not using my mouthguard, made for me in my 20s.
I did get another one in my 40s, also little used. Yes, those molars do get ground down over time.
It will be worth getting. It is molded to your teeth and should be adjusted if it doesn’t quite fit. One caveat: if you get braces in the future, you will likely need a new one.
Custom night gaurd will prevent further damage and if it's not fitted properly, they can adjust (probably for free) until you feel comfortable. The cheap stuff is like a trial and error.
Been there. Clenching wrecked my jaw and gave me constant headaches. The drugstore ones made it worse for me too. I ended up getting a custom guard from clear club instead of the dentist and it's way more affordable and actually comfortable to wear.
Two non-mouthguard related thoughts: Are you taking any meds? They can make grinding worse- may still be worth taking but it is worth bringing up with your doctor!
I’ve seriously considered getting masseter botox injections before. Some dentists offer them. They basically freeze the clenching muscles in an unclenched stance, which theoretically doesn’t affect chewing but prevents serious clenching. Probably costs the same as the mouth guard and isn’t permanent, but some people report longterm improvements. It might be worth looking into.
I have usedchomper labs
Been using it for 2 years, works fine!
For anyone who has TMJ and also grinds/clenches, what type of night guard do you wear and why? Soft, hard, hybrid or another type altogether? What have you had the most luck with preventing damage?
A lot of people say that their soft guards don’t work, And a while ago saw a video of a dentist saying that if there is something soft in your mouth and your mind is on autopilot it will instinctively CHEW on the mouthpiece.
So he suggested a hard acrylic guard
That explains why mine is in the shape it is. The only hard ones I've ever had have been the otc ones that you put in hot water and they're too big for my mouth regardless of potential effectiveness.
But at the same time the hard ones gave me an open bite 🫠 I’ve tried a few different night guards and none of them have worked
Really?! Did it cover the whole row of teeth or was it partial?
Hard appliance. On third one in 8 years. One was lost on vacation
One was eaten by dog. Only one worn out in that time priod
Splint
Does the splint change your bite though?
Depends on type of splint
I’ve been using the clear club night guard for my TMJ and teeth grinding, and it’s made a huge difference in preventing damage. I went with their hybrid option, which combines the comfort of a softer material with the durability of a harder one, and it’s been perfect for managing both the tension in my jaw and the grinding. The design is custom-fit, so it stays in place without feeling bulky, and I’ve noticed significantly less soreness when I wake up. I also use their Clear Club cleaner to keep it hygienic, and it works really well at keeping the guard fresh and free from buildup. Overall, it’s been a game-changer in reducing both the physical discomfort of TMJ and the risk of dental damage from grinding.
about to get mine soo
If you're referring to a night guard, no. They are flat planed so there rare no teeth grooves for the top/bottom of your teeth to fit into. They only protect your teeth from damage, nothing more. If they do happen to help with the pain of clenching, you're lucky. Generally, don't expect a night guard to relieve clenching/grinding or the pain associated with that.
Purpose of me buying it was to take pressure off the tmj so my bite could guide itself back into place
Are you talking about a flat plane guard or a "TMJ orthotic" that you got from a TMJ dentist?
I’ve been through ALL the TMJ treatments lol. And what COULD happen is that the night guard allows your muscles to relax so your bite shifts due to that! So while the guard is not making your teeth move, it is removing any interferences and allowing the muscles to relax, which results in a slight shift in the bite!
Yep. It COULD happen. Agreed.
The main purpose of mouthguards is to keep you from clenching or grinding
My understanding is that the main thing they do is protect your teeth from damage from grinding and clenching. I still clench my jaw (and for me the clenching actually seems worse?), just now there are layers between my upper and lower teeth.
Best TMJ mouthguards
Key Considerations for TMJ Mouthguards:
Type of Mouthguard:
Material:
Thickness and Comfort:
Ease of Cleaning:
Consultation with a Dentist:
Recommendations:
Takeaway: Investing in a high-quality mouthguard can significantly alleviate TMJ symptoms and protect your teeth from grinding. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Get more comprehensive results summarized by our most cutting edge AI model. Plus deep Youtube search.