How to Stop Teeth Grinding
Most people who suffer from bruxism don’t even realize it’s happening. Bruxism is a condition where a person involuntarily grinds or clenches their teeth. It can sneak into your life during moments of stress, frustration, or even sleep. For some, it’s a daytime habit. For others, it’s a nighttime problem they don’t even know they have until the symptoms start showing up. Sore jaws, chipped teeth, and tension headaches are all signs of bruxism. If you have bruxism, there is a solution. Read on to learn more.
Starting with the Source
The most common trigger for grinding is stress. That’s why tackling your daily pressure can help stop bruxism. Think about your routines and where bruxism shows up. Are you clenching your jaw when you work? Do you notice tension when you're driving or scrolling through your phone? Becoming aware is the first step. Breathing exercises, meditation, or a simple walk around the block might be enough to calm your nervous system and loosen your bite. Practicing these habits regularly can ultimately help your jaw let go.
Sleep is another key factor. Irregular sleep patterns, poor habits, or conditions like sleep apnea can all contribute to grinding at night. Set a consistent bedtime, cut back on screen time in the evening, and avoid caffeine late in the day. The calmer you are when your head hits the pillow, the less likely you are to clench your teeth in your sleep.
Talk to Your Dentist
A dentist can spot the damage grinding leaves behind, even when you’re unaware it’s happening. They’ll help you decide on the best solution once it has been identified. A custom mouthguard is a common solution. These devices are fitted to your teeth and designed to absorb pressure while you sleep, keeping the pressure off of teeth. They don’t stop the grinding itself, but they do protect your teeth from the wear and tear and relieve pressure from your jaw.
Other options include physical therapy for your jaw, adjustments to your bite, or stress-reduction techniques. In some cases, if grinding is severe and ongoing, doctors may recommend muscle relaxants or Botox to calm the jaw muscles and reduce tension.
Try Simple Fixes First
Some people find relief with lifestyle changes alone. Start by cutting back on habits that ramp up tension, like chewing gum or biting your nails. Avoid hard foods that overwork your jaw. At night, apply a warm compress to your jaw muscles before bed. That gentle heat can help the muscles relax and make it easier to fall asleep without clenching.
If your grinding is tied to medication, talk to your doctor. Some antidepressants and stimulants are known to trigger bruxism. In those cases, a simple adjustment to your dose or switching medications might help ease the problem.
The Bottom Line
Grinding your teeth may feel like a small thing, but left untreated, it can lead to real damage, both to your smile and your jaw. But you don’t have to live with it; there are solutions. With the right approach and a little help from your dentist, you can stop grinding and start resting more easily. If you have bruxism, speak with your dentist today.