A night guard is a specialized oral appliance designed to protect your teeth and ease the strain on your jaw caused by bruxism and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. If you experience frequent jaw discomfort, morning headaches or notice unusual wear on your teeth, you may be suffering from one or both of these conditions. Our skilled dentists may recommend a custom night guard in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, to help safeguard your smile and support your overall oral health.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Bruxism & TMJ Disorders

Bruxism refers to the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep. TMJ disorders involve dysfunction or inflammation in the joints that connect your jaw to your skull. While these are separate conditions, they frequently occur together and share several symptoms, including:

  • Jaw pain, soreness or stiffness especially in the morning
  • Frequent tension headaches or migraines
  • Pain that radiates to the ears, face or neck
  • Clicking, popping or locking of the jaw joint
  • Flattened, cracked or excessively worn teeth
  • Sensitive teeth due to enamel erosion
  • Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully

Left untreated, bruxism and TMJ disorders can lead to long-term discomfort, dental damage and a diminished quality of life.

How a Night Guard Provides Relief

A night guard offers a noninvasive solution to help manage these conditions. This custom-made appliance fits comfortably over your teeth and acts as a cushion to absorb the pressure from grinding and clenching. It also helps reposition the jaw into a more relaxed state, reducing stress on the TMJ and associated muscles.

Night guards made by Dr. Joseph Elrod, Dr. Bryson Dunham and associates are tailored to your specific bite and jaw alignment, offering a level of comfort and effectiveness that over-the-counter guards cannot provide. Wearing your night guard regularly can protect your teeth, minimize jaw pain and promote better sleep.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you are living with jaw pain, chronic headaches or signs of dental wear, do not wait to seek help. Reach out to Elrod & Dunham Dentistry and schedule an appointment with our dentists today to find out if a night guard in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, is right for you. We are here to help you live more comfortably and preserve the health and function of your smile.