Jaw Pain After Mouth Guard: Causes, Types, and Relief Strategies

Why does my jaw hurt after wearing a mouth guard?

Jaw pain after wearing a mouth guard often stems from an improper fit, which can alter your bite, strain the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), or induce subconscious clenching, leading to muscle fatigue and discomfort.

Understanding Your Jaw: The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex hinge and sliding joint that connects your jawbone (mandible) to your skull (temporal bone). It's responsible for the intricate movements of chewing, speaking, and yawning. Surrounding this joint are several powerful muscles, including the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoids, which facilitate jaw movement and are highly susceptible to strain. Any imbalance or excessive load on this system can lead to pain, clicking, or limited motion, commonly referred to as TMJ dysfunction or TMD.

Common Reasons for Jaw Pain After Mouthguard Use

Experiencing jaw pain after wearing a mouth guard is a common complaint, and several factors can contribute to this discomfort:

• Improper Fit: This is arguably the most frequent culprit. A mouthguard that is too bulky, too tight, or doesn't align correctly with your bite can force your jaw into an unnatural position.
  • Too Tight: Can compress the teeth and jaw, restricting natural movement and creating pressure points.
  • Too Loose: Requires the jaw muscles to work harder to keep it in place, leading to fatigue and soreness.
  • Incorrect Occlusion: If the mouthguard alters your natural bite, even subtly, it can create an imbalance in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
• Occlusal Interference: A mouthguard, especially a "boil-and-bite" or stock variety, might create high spots that interfere with your natural bite. This forces your jaw to adjust, leading to uneven pressure distribution across the teeth and jaw joint, causing strain.
• Increased Jaw Muscle Activity/Clenching: Some individuals, especially those new to mouthguard use, may subconsciously clench or grind their teeth against the mouthguard. This can be a reaction to the foreign object in the mouth or an exacerbation of existing bruxism (teeth grinding). This sustained muscle contraction can lead to significant fatigue and pain in the masseter and temporalis muscles.
• Existing TMJ Dysfunction: If you already have a pre-existing condition affecting your TMJ, such as arthritis, disc displacement, or muscle imbalances, wearing a mouth guard, particularly one that isn't perfectly fitted, can exacerbate these underlying issues. The mouthguard might add stress to an already compromised joint.
• Type of Mouthguard:
  • Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and offer the least customization, often leading to poor fit and instability.
  • Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: While offering some customization, their fit is still imperfect and can often be bulky, leading to the issues described above.
  • Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: Made by a dentist from an impression of your teeth, these offer the best fit and are least likely to cause jaw pain, as they are designed to accommodate your specific bite and oral anatomy.
• Duration of Use: Wearing a mouthguard for extended periods, especially one with an imperfect fit, can compound the strain on your jaw muscles and joint, leading to increased discomfort over time.

Types of Mouthguards and Their Impact

The type of mouthguard significantly influences its potential to cause jaw pain:

• Stock Mouthguards: These generic, ready-to-wear guards are the least expensive but offer minimal fit. Their bulkiness and inability to conform to individual dental arches often lead to an uncomfortable fit, prompting jaw clenching or an unnatural jaw position to keep them in place.
• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Purchased over-the-counter, these are softened in hot water and then molded to your teeth by biting down. While better than stock options, the molding process can still result in an uneven surface or an altered bite if not done precisely, leading to localized pressure or occlusal interference.
• Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: Fabricated by a dental professional, these are molded from an exact impression of your teeth. They offer the most precise fit, optimal comfort, and minimal interference with your natural bite, significantly reducing the risk of jaw pain. They distribute pressure evenly and allow the jaw to rest in its natural, relaxed position.

When to Seek Professional Help

While occasional, mild jaw soreness after mouthguard use might resolve on its own, persistent or worsening pain warrants professional evaluation. You should consult a dentist or a TMJ specialist if you experience:

• Persistent jaw pain that doesn't subside after a few days.
• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in your jaw joint.
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth fully.
• Jaw locking in an open or closed position.
• Pain that radiates to your ears, neck, or head.
• Changes in your bite or tooth sensitivity.
• Headaches or facial pain accompanying jaw discomfort.

Strategies for Alleviating and Preventing Jaw Pain

Addressing jaw pain from mouthguard use involves a combination of immediate relief and preventive measures:

• Ensure Proper Fit: The most critical step is to have a mouthguard that fits perfectly. If you're using a stock or boil-and-bite guard, consider upgrading to a custom-fitted mouthguard made by your dentist. This ensures the guard is precisely molded to your teeth and bite, minimizing strain on your TMJ.
• Gradual Adaptation: If you're new to wearing a mouthguard, especially for sleep (nightguards), start by wearing it for shorter periods. Gradually increase the duration as your jaw adapts.
• Jaw Relaxation Techniques: Be mindful of consciously relaxing your jaw muscles throughout the day and when wearing the guard. Avoid clenching or grinding. Gentle stretching exercises for the jaw can also be beneficial.
• Warm Compresses and Gentle Massage: Applying a warm compress to the jaw area can help relax tense muscles. Gentle massage of the masseter and temporalis muscles can also provide relief.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage acute pain and inflammation.
• Address Underlying Issues: If pain persists, consult a dentist or TMJ specialist. They can assess your bite, jaw joint health, and muscle function to identify and treat any underlying conditions contributing to the pain.
• Proper Care and Maintenance: Keep your mouthguard clean to prevent bacterial buildup, which can contribute to irritation or inflammation.

Conclusion

While mouthguards are essential protective devices for athletes and individuals with bruxism, jaw pain after use is a clear signal that something is amiss. Prioritizing a precise fit, ideally through a custom-made appliance, is paramount. By understanding the intricate mechanics of your jaw and addressing potential issues proactively, you can ensure your mouthguard provides protection without compromising your oral comfort and health. Don't hesitate to consult a dental professional if discomfort persists; your jaw health is integral to your overall well-being.