You are confused. The purpose of the bite guard is to prevent you from destroying your teeth with grinding and clenching. Over time, it will also begin to relax your jaw. You just started wearing it. The process takes time. I have worn one since the mid 80s and I still grind or clench from time to time. For the most part it is involuntary so I don't realize it. Compared to where I was in the pain department then and now, I'll keep wearing it. I hope my comments are helpful to you. Take care.

Thank you Fantod. Your comments are helpful.

Also, I wanted to thank you for your kind words and hug re the other situation - I couldn't respond back because your profile is private - I appreciate your support and hugs to you.

Hi Milily. I have grinded/clenched my teeth while I sleep for years and have tried many types of bite gaurds. Did you have one made for you by a dentist? Because my bite is off I have unfortunately not been able to find one that doesn't make the problem worse but have heard that the ones molded to your exact bite are the most helpful. My mom has worn one for years and she says it stopped her pain.

Hope that helps in some way and hope you find relief soon. :)

Yes my bite guard was made by the dentist after molds of my teeth were made. Actually the dentist sent the molds some where to have it made.

It will take some getting used to. I've tried a number of different kinds of guards and none of them worked for me. The ones in the drugstore I just chewed through in a couple of days and the expensive one taken from a mold of my teeth came off during the night and I woke up choking on it.

I hope yours works and you get some pain relief real soon.

I would call the dentist & have him check to see if you need an adjustment. This should be a free visit. It does take a little to get used to but should fit tight & not come off at night. I have worn one for years.

Hugs

I was tired when I wrote my first response. For facial pain, moist heat is better. Use a hand towel and run it under hot water leaving the ends dry. That way you can wring it out and apply it to your face.

I also use Arnica gel (homeopathic) which you can purchase online or at the Vitamin Shoppe. It doesn't smell, and works well on muscle pain, that pesky bruised feeling and swelling. I pull my hair back and apply it just below my temples where the jaw and ear meet. Helps a lot. And of course, you can apply it to your neck or anywhere else that hurts.

The splint is supposed to put your jaw in a neutral position to relax the muscles. But, you've been grinding etc for a long time to the point it is a habit. It may take quite a while to get some relief. I still have an involuntary muscle spasm in my lower jaw from my TMJ. You'll never stop grinding and clenching but over time if should be less fierce. Especially when your current situation is more settled.

Make sure that anytime you see the dentist that you take your splint with you. They can clean it and check to see if it needs to be adjusted. You'll also need to have it there if dental work such as fillings need to be done.

Take care.