Expert: Susan Tannenbam - 9/7/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
I just got my nightguard from my dentist yesterday.  It is comfortable to wear but I was wondering it is difficult to get in and to get out.  Once it is in it's fine but it feels a little tight to snap into place and out.  It feels like my teeth or my crown could come out when I take it out even thought I know that is highly unlikely.  Is all this normal and will it eventually get easier to put in and out?

Thanks!

ANSWER: Hi Rayanne,
My nightguard (I'm not a dentist, but have TMJ) is extremely loose, as I prefer it that way.  I personally don't like it tight.  My dentist adjusts it to where it feels good to me.  There is NO reason for it to be tight if you don't like it that way, so I suggest you go back to get it adjusted  - it's usually very easy for them to adjust it.  Good luck.
Susan

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi!  
Another question, about how long before there is a noticeable relief in the pain in the jaw?  Right now I can open my mouth but not very wide.  

Thanks!

Answer
Rayanne,
Everyone is different, and as I said before, I'm not a dentist, so I really can't say. However, I've done things for the pain that are in addition to the nightguard, that have helped me tremendously.  In fact, now, I just have had to wear the nightguard and I'm been fine for years.
Here are some things you might want to try:
l. application of wet heat on the area that hurts.
2. There are books (look in the library) that describe simple exercises that gently stretch the neck muscles and other muscles around the jaw area which help to loosen the tight muscles which are caused by clenching/grinding.
3. acupuncture
4.TMJ "gel" that numbs the area or over the counter arthritis type numbing cream to use if you need immediate relief
5. avoid bagels and gum (NEVER!)
These overwork the chewing muscles.
6. ULtrasound administered by a physical therapist or dentist (my "TMJ" dentist does it)
Remember that the pain you are feeling is most likely caused by all those muscles around the jaw becomming a little bit TIGHT from the clenching.  It's really not that complicated or "mysterious" a condition...you just have to do things to loosen up that tightness.  Also, it's good to understand that the muscle pain can travel into the teeth/gums, head, neck, even tho there is nothing wrong with the teeth, gums, neck, head - it just feels like it.  People get unnecessary tooth extractions because the dentist doesn't realize that the pain could be coming from the tight muscles.  This might never happen to you, I just think it's something you should be aware of.
GOod luck,
Hope this helps.
Susan