Will using a mouth guard for teeth grinding cause jaw pain?

Yes, initially: Initially, when using a mouth guard, you may unconsciously continue to grind your teeth (bruxism). The mouth guard itself doesn't cause the jaw pain. The bruxism does because in the process of grinding, you put strain on your mandibular joint and the surrounding muscles. However, the mouth guard may make it more pronounced since you may grind more putting more strain on the jaw - temporarily.

Mouth guard: A well fitted professional mouth guard won't cause pain. A poorly fitted (either at home or an average job in a dental office) can cause pain. Many guards require a follow up visit for minor adjusting of the bite or the fit.

It can: Depends on the type of mouthpiece- hard or soft, upper or lower. If you have never had jaw pain before, even though you have been grinding, i would go back to the dentist who made the mg. Now, if it is stare bough (otc, ) get rid of it and see a specialist who can hopefully stop the grinding and not contribute to additional symptoms.

Mouth Guards & Grind: Mouth guards are to protect your teeth and oral area from sports related injuries. If you feel you are grinding your teeth you really need a dentist to work with to get you a custom appliance that is used to reduce the amount of grinding. The more custom the fit the better for you . Store bought ones 'might" work but not as good a custom one.

Possible: 2 reasons to wear a mouthguard for grinding are 1) to prevent tooth wear and 2) prevent damage to jaw/TMJ. Some guards actually make the grinding worse. See a TMJ expert for guidance about this. Any dentist can be a TMJ expert with the proper training and experience. Most commonly, oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and orofacial pain specialists. Ask MD, dentist and dental society for referral.

It could: A mouth guard is designed to protect teeth during contact sports. Custom made well designed and adjusted mouth guards are far superior to OTC appliances, and are less likely to cause joint distress. Night Guards (Occlusal Orthotic) provide symptomatic relief for joint dysfunction caused by grinding/clenching/malocclusion/trauma, and should relieve joint distress.