Signs your jaw may need attention

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. You use it every time you speak or chew. When it’s under strain, you might notice:

  • Jaw pain, stiffness or trouble opening wide
  • Clicking or popping when you open or close your mouth
  • Morning headaches or tension in your face
  • Worn, chipped or sensitive teeth from clenching or grinding

Read more about the signs and causes in our guide to TMJ and jaw pain.

What a TMJ assessment involves

We look at how your jaw moves, how your teeth come together, and signs of clenching or grinding such as wear on your teeth. Catching strain early helps protect your natural teeth and can reduce the need for bigger treatment later, such as crowns or tooth replacement.

Custom night guards and sport guards

If you grind or clench, a custom night guard protects your enamel and dental work and eases strain on your jaw. We make ours from a precise TRIOS digital scan in KeySplint Hard, and we also make custom sport guards.

Yes, we make custom night guards and sport guards for our patients.
A night guard is a custom-fitted dental appliance worn over your teeth while you sleep. Our practice uses high-quality materials like KeySplint Hard instead of traditional acrylics to make guards that are durable and comfortable.
Night guards protect your teeth and jaw from bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching). They help protect tooth enamel, reduce jaw joint and muscle strain, prevent damage to crowns, bridges, or veneers, and may ease tension-related morning headaches. Learn more in our guide to TMJ and jaw pain.
Unlike over-the-counter options, our custom guards are designed using a TRIOS scanner for a precise, comfortable fit. This supports our commitment to gentle dentistry and a solution that feels natural.
Many traditional guards are made from acrylic. We use KeySplint Hard, a highly cross-linked resin designed to cure into a dense, stable structure.
With over 15 years of experience, we combine digital scanning and materials like KeySplint Hard to create a custom solution that protects your teeth and supports gentle, health-conscious care.

Sleep apnea assessment

Sleep apnea causes breathing to stop and start during sleep, which can leave you tired during the day and affect your health. During an assessment, we look for signs of breathing problems during sleep and whether an oral appliance may be appropriate for you.

Sleep apnea is diagnosed by a physician, usually with a sleep study. When an oral appliance is appropriate, it works alongside your doctor’s care.

Is your jaw trying to tell you something?

Book a TMJ assessment. We’ll look for the cause and talk through your options, including a custom night guard.

Book a TMJ assessment Call (613) 829-6545