5 Best Mouth Guards for TMJ (Ranked!)
The Temporomandibular Joint, or the TMJ as it is affectionately called, can be a real diva! From clicking like a rebellious castanet to causing piercing pain, TMJ disorders have a knack for stealing the spotlight and making your life miserable.
One of the most common causes of TMJ disorders is bruxism or teeth grinding. Besides causing jaw pain, bruxism can cause uneven tooth damage, tooth sensitivity, and headaches.
But unfortunately, there is no cure for teeth grinding. A mouth or night guard is a great way to save your teeth and jaw from this excruciating ordeal.
The mouth guards create a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, cushioning the effect of teeth grinding. To pick the best one, always go for a custom-fit guard that is comfortable, durable, and offers the best alignment.
Mouth guards are not your ordinary fashion accessory, but it may help relieve TMJ symptoms.
We have compiled a list of the best mouth guards for people suffering from TMJ. So buckle up and get ready to protect those pearly whites, because, my friends, relief from TMJ is just a custom mouthguard away!
What Is the Best Night Guard for TMJ Clenching?
Now, before we dive into the realm of jaw-saving superheroes, let’s take a moment to appreciate the gravity-defying feats of our jaws.
From devouring mountains of popcorn during movie nights to belting out off-key shower anthems, they have stood by us through thick and thin, enduring the stress we put them through. But alas, sometimes even the mightiest jaws need a helping hand.
Picture this: you are lying in bed, ready to drift off into dreamland, when suddenly, your jaw channels its inner dead lifter and goes on an unrelenting clenching spree. Oh, the joys of TMJ!
But fear not, for there is a shining beacon of hope in the land of dental accessories—a night guard worthy of its theme song, complete with pyrotechnics.
The Degree of Your Bruxism
The kind of night guards you need will depend on the level of your teeth grinding. The teeth clenching, grinding, or gnashing can occur throughout the day or only when you sleep.
Bruxism can also vary significantly in severity. Therefore, dentists categorise the disorder into different levels depending on the frequency and intensity.
Here Are the General Levels of Bruxism
- Mild bruxism involves occasional teeth grinding or clenching, typically occurring a few times a month. It may not cause significant damage to the teeth or jaw, and many people with mild bruxism may not be aware of their grinding habits.
- Moderate bruxism is characterised by regular teeth grinding or clenching, occurring several times weekly. It can result in issues with the TMJ, such as jaw pain, headaches, tooth sensitivity, and mild tooth wear.Moderate bruxism may require intervention to prevent further damage and alleviate discomfort.
- Severe bruxism involves frequent and intense teeth grinding or clenching, often occurring nightly. It can lead to significant tooth wear, cracks or fractures in teeth, jaw muscle pain, TMJ disorders, and other oral health complications. Severe bruxism may require professional treatment to protect the teeth and manage the underlying causes.
You should note that categorising bruxism into levels is not universally standardised, and different healthcare professionals may use slightly different criteria to assess and classify the severity of bruxism.
Now, the night guard you need to protect your teeth and jaw from the ill effects of bruxism will depend on your grinding level.
For instance, if you are a heavy teeth grinder, you need much stronger protection than a light teeth grinder.
MYMOFOSMILE understands your requirements and has five different types of grinding guards for varying levels of bruxism.
MYMOFOSMILE®smile is one of the top mouth guard brands in Australia that offers a range of mouth guards designed to provide protection and comfort for those dealing with teeth grinding or clenching.
One notable feature of our night guards is their emphasis on breathability.
As a result, the design allows for adequate airflow, reducing the likelihood of discomfort or breathing difficulties while wearing the dental guard for teeth grinding.
Here are five of the best guards for grinding and clenching from MYMOFOSmile available in Australia to help relieve the severe pain and discomfort you feel in your jaw every morning.
1. Bruxism Mouth Guard+
If you face severe bruxism on a nightly basis, then your teeth and this night guard are a match made in heaven.
Modelled after your unique bite, as are our products, the night guard ensures you have the best fit and comfort throughout the night.
Before wearing this custom mouth guard, you will need to dip it in hot water so it becomes pliable. Once inserted, it hardens up, providing maximum protection.
Our Bruxism Mouth Guard+ is manufactured with a thickness of about 1.8mm at the rear to maintain an even surface against your opposing teeth.
While you can get these guards for both your lower and upper jaw, almost 90% of people will benefit from the guards for upper teeth.
This grinder is suitable for both light and heavy grinders. If you’re unsure which guard you might need, this one is for you!
You can use a lower jaw night guard if your dentist recommends it or if you have a class III bite.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Great for heavy bruxismResistant to stains and odours. – Resistant to stains and odours. | – Might not be a great option if you have mild bruxism. |
2. Thin Mouth Guard
It is an ideal night guard for people who want protection without the feeling of biting down on a hunk of plastic.
These night guards manage a perfect balance between durability and a slimline profile.
The mouth guard is available in 1.6mm uniform thickness and is smell and stain resistant.
The Thin Mouth Guard from MYMOFOSmile is a great choice for someone who wants a more discreet option without sacrificing the protection of a night guard.
| Pros | Cons |
| – A comfortable custom fit – 1.6mm uniform thickness – Smell and stain resistant | – It might not be a durable option for people with heavy grinding and clenching, and you may need to replace it sooner. |
3. Mouth Guard Comfort
The night guard is specifically designed for people with mild to moderate bruxism. While the Mouth Guard Comfort has a hard outer layer, it has a soft inner lining for comfortable wearing.
The custom mouth guard is manufactured using a 3mm copolyester and polyurethane material that is moulded according to your unique dental impression.
We highly recommend this dental guard if you have sensitive teeth due to light to moderate grinding and clenching at night.
Although the Mouth Guard Comfort is easy to get used to, it might not offer sufficient protection against heavy grinding.
This custom-fit dental guard ensures a personalised and precise fit for the best comfort and protection.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Soft inner lining for added comfort – Made from durable 3mm material | – Can pick up stains quicker – Will have to be replaced sooner for heavy grinders |
4. Daytime Mouth Guard
This guard is perfect for all-day wear without causing irritation. Its lightweight design ensures you can speak naturally and clearly, so there’s no need to worry about awkward interruptions to your conversations. Despite its flexible feel, it offers effective protection against clenching and grinding, dramatically reducing the damage to your teeth over time.
Made just for your teeth, it provides unmatched comfort and ensures maximum protection throughout the day. Plus, its slim, invisible design allows you to wear it confidently—no one will even know it’s there.
Classified as a TGA-compliant Class 1 Medical Device, you can trust its safety and reliability for everyday use. Say goodbye to bulky, uncomfortable guards and hello to a more natural, effortless solution for daytime grinding!
| Pros | Cons |
| – Comfortable and Gentle: Soft and lightweight, making it ideal for all-day wear without irritation. – Discreet Design: Slim and nearly invisible, allowing you to wear it confidently without drawing attention. – Custom Fit: Tailored specifically for your teeth, providing superior comfort and effective protection. | – Limited Durability: The softer material may not last as long as thicker, more rigid guards. – Not for Severe Grinding: Best suited for light to moderate clenching and grinding; heavy grinders may need a tougher option. – Potential for Staining: The flexible material may be more prone to discoloration over time. |
5. Soft Mouth Guard
It is a product for people who value comfort over durability. It is the softest night guard we make and is ideally suited for people who grind their teeth during the day or have light bruxism episodes at night.
These guards are very soft, so they might not be as durable or long-lasting as others on this list. Also, the soft material used in these guards is more prone to staining.
The 2mm thickness is ideal for protection against the impact of grinding. If you’re experiencing pain from clenching or grinding, we recommend you consult your doctor for treatment to help prevent stress injury from TMJ.
Say goodbye to feeling like you have transformed into a chipmunk ready to store acorns for the winter. With this Soft Mouth Guard, your mouth can feel more natural.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Made from clear, soft rubber material – Prevents tooth damage – 2mm all-round thickness for added comfort | – Not as durable compared to other options from MYMOFOSMILE – Picks up stains faster. |
FAQS
Can TMJ Be Fixed With a Night Guard?
Using a night guard can help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, but it may not fix the underlying condition.
These guards spare your teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching, reduce muscle tension, and promote proper jaw alignment while you sleep.
They relieve jaw pain, headaches, and teeth sensitivity caused by TMJ. However, it is essential to note that these guards primarily address the symptoms rather than cure the root cause of TMJ.
For a comprehensive treatment approach, you must consult a TMJ specialist who can provide a tailored treatment plan based on your specific condition.
What Is the Best Kind of Mouth Guard for TMJ?
Two types of mouth guards are available for managing TMJ – custom-made and over-the-counter (OTC) mouth guards.
A custom-fit night guard is made specifically for you based on impressions of your teeth and jaw. They offer the best fit, comfort, and effectiveness.
These guards are tailored to your unique jaw structure and can help promote proper alignment, reduce teeth grinding, and alleviate TMJ-related symptoms.
How Long Should You Wear a Mouth Guard for TMJ?
The frequency of wearing a custom mouth guard for TMJ varies depending on the severity of your teeth grinding and clenching. As most people grind and clench their teeth at night, it is best to wear your night guard throughout sleep.
However, stress can contribute to TMJ symptoms. If you notice an increase in symptoms during times of heightened tension, wearing a night guard during these periods can provide relief.
You should consult a dentist if you have concerns regarding TMJ.
Should Mouth Guards Be on Top or Bottom Teeth?
You can wear your custom night guard either on top or on the bottom teeth, depending on your specific needs. Both options can effectively manage TMJ-related symptoms, and the choice may depend on factors such as the alignment of your teeth and the nature of your TMJ condition. We recommend you visit your doctor to see if a TMJ mouth guard is suitable for you.
What Causes TMJ Flare-Ups?
Various factors can cause TMJ flare-ups. The exact cause may vary from person to person. Still, common triggers include jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism), stress, jaw trauma or injury, misalignment of the teeth or jaw, arthritis, and certain habits like nail biting or chewing gum.
Flare-ups can also be influenced by lifestyle factors such as poor posture, excessive gum chewing, or consuming hard or chewy foods.
How Can I Cure TMJ Naturally?
While no known cure exists for TMJ disorder, specific natural remedies can help alleviate symptoms. Here are some of our suggestions:
- Gentle jaw stretching and strengthening exercises.
- Applying a warm compress or using an ice pack can provide temporary relief.
- Practising stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or relaxing activities can help alleviate TMJ symptoms exacerbated by stress.
- Proper posture minimises strain on the jaw and improves overall TMJ discomfort.
Can I Use a Store-Bought Mouth Guard for TMJ?
While a store-bought mouth guard provides some protection, it may not offer the same level of customisation and effectiveness as a custom night guard.
TMJ management requires a tailored approach and a custom-made night guard to provide a better fit, promote proper jaw alignment, and offer enhanced comfort.
If you choose to use a store-bought mouth guard, we recommend consulting with a dental professional to ensure it suits your specific TMJ needs and monitor its effectiveness.
Do Over-the-Counter Mouth Guards Work for TMJ?
Over-the-counter mouth guards can effectively manage TMJ symptoms, but their efficiency is significantly lower than custom-made guards.
When the guards are custom-fitted for your mouth, they offer a much better fit and are more effective in promoting proper jaw alignment and providing optimal comfort for TMJ.
A Teeth Grinding Guard Is Your Secret Weapon
A mouth guard is not just a superhero for your teeth; it also possesses the secret power to grant you a better night’s sleep when battling bruxism.
Their cushioning embrace creates a barrier that prevents teeth grinding and jaw clenching from interrupting your dreams.
No more waking up with a sore jaw or a headache that feels like a drum solo. These mighty mouth guards protect your pearly whites while your slumber remains undisturbed.
Each night guard on our list offers its unique blend of comfort, protection, and style, ensuring you find the perfect fit for a healthy, pain-free sleep. So, choose your TMJ companion and bid adieu to sleepless nights and morning jaw pains.
With a night guard by your side, you can rest easy knowing that your smile is in good hands (or should we say, good guards?). So, sleep tight, wake up bright, and let your jaw embark on a blissful adventure of serenity and tranquillity.
Ready to upgrade your dental protection and unleash your confident smile? Visit MYMOFOSmile today to explore our custom night guard and sports mouth guard range.
Whether seeking relief from TMJ discomfort or safeguarding your teeth during sports activities, MYMOFOSmile has got you covered. With their high-quality, custom-fit guards, you can experience optimal comfort, protection, and style.