Is it safe to use an athletic mouth guard for bruxism?

Probably: An athletic mouthguard while not ideal is better than nothing to help prevent the effects of severe bruxing. A bruxing appliance made by a dentist to properly fit your mouth is preferred.

Sort of: In the absence of having anything else available, it is ok and will basically only protect you from wearing down your teeth. Other than that, it can actually induce instances of clenching or grinding and may cause more harm than good in the long term. Best solution is to get a custom-made appliance from your dentist.

Kind of: Probably better than nothing. The best is to see your dentist to determine the best kind for you. I have some patients who do well with an athletic kind of guard, which we custom make and adjust , while others need the harder type. Find a prosthodontist (check off st. Mike's near hospital) to evaluate for you.

Safe, but: Save, but perhaps not effective. Try it. If you're improved, it works. If not, see a TMJ-orofacial pain doc. Any dentist can be a TMJ expert with the proper training and experience. Most commonly, oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and orofacial pain specialists. Ask your MD, your dentist and your dental society for referrals.

Not good idea: Athletic mouth guard and occlusal orthotic (night guard) have different function, are designed differently, and function differently. Don't try to treat TMJ dysfunction yourself as the result may be increased morbidity, not less. Talk to your Dentist.