Barry J. Litwin, D.D.S., F.A.G.D.

Dental Appliances: One Size Doesn't Fit All

Ringing in your ears, jaw pain, back pain, dizziness, clenching your teeth, snoring, misaligned teeth, and migraines. The problem could be all in your head…or rather, your jaw.

There are several dental conditions including TMD (jaw joint dysfunction), sleep disorders, and malocclusion (bad bite) that can produce those signs and symptoms.

Depending on your diagnosis, we may be able to fit you with a customized orthotic appliance to alleviate your pain or symptoms. Of the many types of appliances, we might use one of these three:

Night guard or day guard—a nearly-invisible, hard acrylic splint that covers either the upper or lower teeth. It helps protect your teeth from damage caused by grinding and clenching during sleep and during the day. [top photo]

Tongue retaining device—a soft acrylic device that looks similar to a sports mouthguard. It covers the upper and lower teeth and has a bulb-like extension (into which you place your tongue) that protrudes between the top and bottom trays. This appliance moves your lower jaw and tongue forward to keep your airway open so you can breathe easily while sleeping. No snoring. [middle image]

Adjustable positioner—an appliance that resembles two night guards hooked together. The adjustment mechanism can be changed by small increments to pull the lower jaw forward. [bottom photo]

There are over-the-counter orthotic appliances, but because they are not custom-fitted exactly to your teeth and needs, they may cause more pain or even structural damage. And because they don’t fit well, you are less likely to use them.

You can count on our experience to create a treatment plan that will help you live a healthy lifestyle.

Have a concern or dental issue? Call and make an appointment; we can help.