Absolutely. Staying open for an extended time can stress the jaw muscles. Also, if the filling needs further bite adjustment (we call it occlusion), that can trigger symptoms. Many times when I am in the dental chair (yes, dentists have dental problems too!) I will ask for a "bite block". This gadget is basically a chunk of rubber that will help keep your jaw open during the appointment.

In regards to your second question, many volumes have been written about that. I have always advised my patients that tmj is much like a knee injury. it is likely chronic and will come back to bother you time and again. Like a sports injury, go easy on it, and take tylenol or advil as needed. Immediately after the injury use a cold pack - later a warm moist compress.

Bite guards do not decrease clenching - in fact they often increase it. These devices have to be carefully fabricated and monitored for just that reason. IMO, good sleep hygiene is a key to decreasing TMJ issues as is common sense. As always, talk to your dentist about this as he/she knows you best and is there to serve you. Good luck!

Sincerely,

Dr. Liftig

Rick Liftig