Do you wake up with a sore jaw and/or a headache? Do your teeth feel sensitive or look worn down? You may be one of many people who grind their teeth, also known as bruxism. Teeth grinding and clenching can occur during the night or day, and cause some serious damage to your teeth and overall oral health. If you're asking yourself, how to stop grinding my teeth? Read below to find out our top tips to ensuring you avoid grinding your teeth.
So how can we stop grinding our teeth? The first step is to identify the cause. We often see flare-ups during stressful situations, i.e. exam time, work deadlines etc. But it can also be caused by anxiety and even certain medications. Once you have identified the cause, you can begin taking steps to address it. For example, if stress is the cause you might like to try some relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.
Apart from trying to relax more (because that’s super easy… right?) we also recommend seeing your usual Gold Coast dentist for a jaw assessment. At Waterways Dental, our dentist, Dr. Eyk, has completed his PhD in Muscle Physiology and possesses a special interest in treating orofacial pain and jaw joint (TMJ) disorders. If you're experiencing jaw pain, we highly recommend scheduling a TMJ consultation with Dr. Eyk. Dr Eyk can help you identify the cause of your bruxism and recommend the best course of treatment for your specific needs.
Depending on the outcome of your TMJ consultation, one preventative step you can take is to wear a night guard. A night guard is a custom-fitted dental appliance that is worn over your teeth while you sleep. It can help protect your teeth from grinding and reduce jaw pain.
In addition to these steps, there are also some simple lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce teeth grinding. For example, try to avoid caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening. These substances can make you more likely to grind your teeth. You might also try to reduce your stress levels through exercise or therapy.
Remember, while bruxism can be a frustrating condition, there are steps you can take to stop it. With a little patience and perseverance, you can protect your teeth and enjoy a good night's sleep!
Call us today to book your TMJ consultation with Dr Eyk and we’ll have your jaw feeling more comfortable in no time.