Waking up with a sore jaw, persistent headaches, or difficulty chewing might seem like minor inconveniences. Many people assume these symptoms are just a result of grinding their teeth in their sleep and quickly reach for a store-bought mouthguard. But if you’re dealing with chronic jaw pain, the issue may be deeper—and more complex—than simple grinding.
At Smile Vibe Dentistry, we often see patients who have tried to treat jaw discomfort on their own, only to find their symptoms persist or even worsen. While a mouthguard can offer short-term relief, it's not always the full solution. If your jaw pain is frequent, worsening, or affecting your daily life, it’s time to take a closer look.
Let’s explore what causes jaw pain, when a mouthguard helps, and when you might need a more comprehensive approach.
Jaw pain can stem from several different sources, ranging from muscle strain to joint dysfunction. Some of the most common causes include:
A mouthguard, particularly a custom-fitted one from your dentist, can be helpful if your jaw pain is caused by grinding or clenching during sleep. It creates a protective barrier between the teeth and reduces the stress placed on your jaw muscles.
However, mouthguards don’t treat the underlying causes. They are a protective aid—not a cure. Many people continue to experience jaw tension, headaches, and other symptoms despite wearing a guard. That’s why we often recommend custom night guards as part of a broader treatment plan.
If you're relying on a mouthguard but still dealing with:
…it’s time to consult a dental professional for a more comprehensive evaluation.
At Smile Vibe Dentistry, we go beyond the surface to determine the root cause of your discomfort and build a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Treating jaw pain effectively requires identifying what’s actually causing it. We begin with a thorough assessment that includes:
From there, we can determine whether your symptoms are related to bruxism, TMJ disorder, a misaligned bite, or another condition.
If your jaw pain isn’t improving with a mouthguard alone, we offer a range of treatment options that address the root cause, including:
Once we’ve helped relieve your jaw pain, long-term maintenance is essential to prevent it from returning. Here’s what you can do:
At Smile Vibe Dentistry, we take a holistic approach to diagnosing and treating jaw pain. We don’t stop at symptom relief—we look for the source so we can help you find lasting comfort.
Our patients appreciate:
We understand that jaw pain can interfere with every part of your day—from eating to speaking to sleeping—and we’re here to help you feel better, fast.
If you’ve been using a mouthguard and still feel sore, tight, or uncomfortable, it’s time to take a deeper look. Jaw pain is your body’s way of saying something isn’t right—and addressing it early can save you from more serious dental problems later.
Let Smile Vibe Dentistry help you find answers and relief. Book your consultation today, and let’s get to the root of your discomfort.
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