Jaw pain, morning headaches and worn or chipped teeth are often signs of clenching or grinding (bruxism) or a problem with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) — the joint that connects your jaw to your skull.
Dr. Holcombe can evaluate your symptoms and recommend conservative treatment, including a custom-fitted night guard that protects your teeth and helps ease the strain on your jaw.
Signs of TMJ Problems or Teeth Grinding
- Jaw pain, soreness or tiredness, especially in the morning
- Headaches or earaches without another clear cause
- Clicking, popping or grating sounds when you open your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully, or a jaw that feels stuck
- Teeth that look flat, worn, chipped or cracked
- Sensitive teeth or broken fillings
- A partner who hears you grinding at night
TMJ & Grinding Treatments We Offer
Custom Night Guards
A night guard is a thin, comfortable appliance made from impressions of your teeth. Worn while you sleep, it cushions your teeth from grinding and clenching forces and helps protect your jaw muscles and joints.
TMJ Evaluation
Dr. Holcombe examines your jaw joints, muscles and bite and talks with you about your symptoms and habits to find the most likely cause.
Conservative TMJ Treatment
Many TMJ symptoms improve with simple, non-surgical care — such as a custom oral appliance, adjustments to your bite where needed, and changes to daily habits.
Repairing Worn Teeth
Teeth damaged by years of grinding can be rebuilt with crowns or fillings once the grinding is under control.
Getting a Custom Night Guard
Evaluation
Dr. Holcombe checks your teeth, jaw and bite and talks about your symptoms.
Impressions
We take impressions of your teeth for a precise, comfortable fit.
Fitting
We fit your night guard and make any adjustments it needs.
Follow-up
We check your night guard, your teeth and your symptoms at future visits.
Easing Jaw Pain at Home
- Eat softer foods and cut food into small pieces while your jaw is sore.
- Avoid chewing gum and very chewy or hard foods.
- Use a warm compress or ice pack on the sore side, whichever feels better.
- Notice daytime clenching and remind yourself: lips together, teeth apart.
- Wear your night guard every night and bring it to your checkups.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Holcombe for TMJ Treatment & Night Guards
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from East Carolina University; undergraduate studies at North Carolina State University
- Active member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, North Carolina Dental Society and Buncombe County Dental Society
- A small, family-owned practice where you see the same dentist every visit, led by Dr. Holcombe since 2018
- Personal care and long-term relationships: we take the time to listen, answer questions and explain your options
TMJ Treatment & Night Guards: Frequently Asked Questions
Is a custom night guard better than a store-bought one?
A custom night guard is made from impressions of your teeth, so it fits more precisely, tends to be more comfortable and stays in place better than a boil-and-bite guard. A better fit makes it easier to wear every night.
What causes teeth grinding?
Grinding and clenching can be linked to stress, sleep habits, an uneven bite and other factors. Many people don’t know they do it until a dentist notices wear on their teeth or a partner hears it at night.
Can TMJ problems go away on their own?
Some jaw pain improves with rest and simple self-care. If symptoms last more than a couple of weeks, keep coming back, or make it hard to eat or open your mouth, schedule an evaluation.
How do I clean my night guard?
Rinse it after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and cool water, let it dry and keep it in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp it.
Will a night guard protect my crowns and fillings?
Yes. A night guard helps protect natural teeth as well as crowns, bridges and fillings from the heavy forces of grinding.