Can a biteguard for tmj make it worse. since i've had mine i've developed tightness and spasms in jaw.

Yes: There are many types of mouth appliances that accomplish very different purposes, some the exact opposite of others. An inexpensive otc appliance is sometimes useful as a diagnostic tool to determine the best course of treatment for tmd but often a different appliance is necessary to address the symptoms. See your dentist and report your observations.

Yes: If you are a chronic clencher, a full mouth guard, especially a soft guard, can cause you to clench more and make the TMJ problem worse. The TMJ problem can also worsen if the guard is too thick or causes an uneven bite. One solution is an nti appliance. Talk to your dentist or find a dentist experienced with the nti.

Cause?: What's the cause of your joint dysfunction? Cause has to be treated. Night guard may just mask symptoms. If your "bite" is off, and that's the cause, you may need occlusal adjustment or orthodontic treatment. Biteguards work best when worn 24hrs/day initially, then tapered off as your symptoms diminish. If your splint isn't helping, stop wearing it, go back to hour dentist.

Yes: Make an appointment with the practitioner which placed the "biteguard" immediately, although there are times when the TMJ will feel slightly worse after a splint is placed, since you are experiencing these symptoms you should be seen asap.

Yes: There are many guards, orthotics, and bitesplints out there, and there are many biting/occlusion philosophies out there, so you should go to your dentist and ask him/her what approach he/she is using, and yes, if you have a biteguard that has torque, premature contacts, uneven/unbalanced bite, or it's got interferences, etc. And positional issues, you need to investigate further on an appliance.

Yes: A bite guard or dental splint can make TMJ worse. If that happens, talk to your doc about discontinuing it, adjusting it, or trying a different type of splint. Make sure your doc is a TMJ expert.