TMJ, Bruxism and Sleep Apnea Appliances in Woodstock

Oral appliances are custom-made devices worn over the teeth, either during sleep or during the day. Depending on the type, an appliance may protect the teeth from grinding, reduce strain on the jaw or help keep the airway open during sleep.

Each appliance is made to fit the patient's own bite and is adjusted at the fitting appointment. The following appliances are available:

Night guards

Worn during sleep to protect the teeth from grinding and clenching.

Day guards

Worn during the day by patients who clench or grind their teeth while awake.

Bruxism and TMJ appliances

Used to protect the teeth and help reduce strain on the jaw joints and muscles.

Sleep apnea appliances

Worn during sleep to hold the lower jaw slightly forward and help keep the airway open.

Bruxism is the clenching or grinding of the teeth, which often occurs during sleep and may go unnoticed. Over time, grinding can wear the teeth and strain the jaw muscles and the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which connect the lower jaw to the skull.

A bruxism or TMJ appliance is a custom-made guard that protects the teeth and may help reduce strain on the jaw.

Patients who may benefit from a bruxism or TMJ appliance include those with:

• A sore, tight or tired jaw on waking
• Morning headaches around the temples
• Teeth that appear worn, flattened or chipped
• Jaw clicking, locking or aching, particularly when chewing
• Grinding noticed by a partner or family member
• Crowns, veneers or large fillings that need protection from grinding

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which the airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, interrupting breathing. Sleep apnea is diagnosed by a physician, usually with a sleep study.

A sleep apnea appliance is a custom-made mouthpiece worn at night that holds the lower jaw slightly forward to help keep the airway open. For some patients, an appliance may help reduce snoring or manage mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.

Patients who may benefit from a sleep apnea appliance include those with:

• Loud or frequent snoring
• Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea diagnosed by a physician
• Difficulty using a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine

1. Assessment

   Symptoms are discussed, and the teeth, bite, jaw joints and jaw muscles are examined.

2. Record of the teeth

   A record of the teeth is taken so the appliance can be custom-made to fit the patient's bite.

3. Fitting and adjustment

   The appliance is fitted, checked against the bite and adjusted until it sits comfortably.

4. Follow-up

   The fit and condition of the appliance are reviewed at follow-up and regular dental visits.

For sleep apnea appliances, follow-up with the patient's physician may also be recommended.

Appliances are checked for wear and fit at regular dental visits, and may need to be adjusted or replaced over time.

Care recommendations include:

• Rinsing and gently brushing the appliance after each use
• Storing the appliance in its case when it is not being worn
• Keeping the appliance away from hot water and direct heat
• Bringing the appliance to regular dental visits
• Contacting our office if the fit changes or the appliance is damaged

Over-the-counter mouth guards are made in standard sizes rather than from a record of the patient's teeth, and may fit loosely.

A custom-made appliance is made to fit the patient's bite and adjusted at the fitting. A dental examination beforehand also allows the cause of jaw discomfort or tooth wear to be assessed.