Can i use a cheap sport mouth guard instead of an expensive night guard for my tmj?

Mouth guard: By using cheap mouth guard that is not custom adjusted and not being treated or supervised by a trained dental professional you may end up having an expensive TMJ surgery....Or just never have any relieve from TMJ problem, from my experience - if you paid $20 for the cheap mouth gurd... Then you overpaid $19... For what it will do for you...

Not advisable: A dentist guided mouthguard is most often what is needed to get successful results for tmj. You are more likely to further agravate your situation than help it with a cheap mouth guard.

You could but...: Nite guards main job is to protect the teeth from bruxing and clenching. A store bought athletic guard works however, it may not stay in well, and if it is the boil to form type it might not be balanced properly to hit all teeth evenly. This could worsen your TMJ problem. Just saw patient yester who bought one..Asked if it was helping? Nope keeps finding it on the pillow.

Would not advise: A cheap mouthguard, usually otc, is usually too thick, is an upper and probably will not fit properly. Such a mouthguard may actually increase your symptoms and can make things worse. There are many types of custom mouthpieces designed for treating grinding, clenching and/or tmj/tmd. So a one side/type fits/treats all applies here in terms of the otc. Beware!

Not advisable: Probably ineffective. Sometimes can make symptoms worse. If you start with it and symptoms increase, promptly cease from using it. Good luck.

Not recommended: the custom made sport guard is recommended. It will protect your teeth, gums and protect against concussion of the brain. Ask your dentist for custom made sport guard. Take care.

Need custom made: I would suggest to have your dentist fabricate a custom nightguard. A stock sportsguard will do more damage that good, as the fit is not customized and the material is not the same. Remember the adage, never look for discounts for parachutes, brain surgery and dentistry!