Do you ever feel your jaw hurt when you get up in the morning? bruxism could be a cause. People suffering from bruxism often grind or clench their teeth together.
Here are some ways to stop grinding your teeth. Dental bonding and porcelain veneers are options for those with severe bruxism.
Why grinding teeth is so bad
Your jaw and mouth muscles are responsible for chewing and speaking. It’s not surprising that they are among the most powerful muscles in your body. Stress, anxiety, and anger can lead to jaw clenching. This is a sign that your teeth are being put under too much pressure by these strong muscles.
Although it is possible to avoid serious damage in some cases, bruxism sufferers who grind their teeth regularly can have serious consequences for their dental health. Wear can cause cracks, chips and tooth loss.
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A Mouth Guard
Nighttime is a common time to grind your teeth. A mouth guard protects your teeth nightly because you cannot control your movements when you sleep. Although it won’t prevent teeth grinding, the guard will absorb the majority of force so your teeth don’t have to.
Although you can buy a mouth guard at your local drugstore, it is best to have one made specifically for you. If you have bruxism, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist will be able to help you design a mouth guard that fits your needs.
Reduce Stress
Stress and anxiety are often the triggers for bruxism. Reduce stress in your daily life to make your muscles less likely to get it on your teeth. Meditation, yoga, and even a hot bath can help with stress relief and relaxation.
Don’t Overwork Your Jaw
Overworking your jaw can cause tension to build up, which can lead to teeth grinding or jaw clenching. Avoid hard to chew foods, such as chewy candy or tough meat, and chewing gum.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
The urge to clench your teeth can be increased by drinking alcohol, and the same goes for caffeine. However, it can also increase tension and jittery movements like tooth grinding. Caffeine and alcohol can both increase the symptoms of bruxism, so it is important to avoid them in the afternoons and evenings.
Get treatment for sleep apnea
Although they aren’t always in sync, many people who suffer from bruxism have also suffered from sleep apnea. Treatment for sleep apnea, such as a CPAP machine and mouth guard, can be very effective in preventing teeth grinding.
Relax and massage your jaws
Jaw exercises and muscle relaxants are good ways to relax your jaw. To relieve tension, massage your jaw, neck, face, and shoulders. You might also consider consulting a chiropractor or physical therapist to learn more about jaw exercises. You can also apply a warm, damp washcloth to your jaw area for several minutes before going to bed at night to relax the muscles.