What To Do If You Clench And Grind Your Teeth

Have you noticed that when you wake up in the morning you have a sore jaw? Has your partner mentioned that they have heard you make grinding noises during your sleep? If so, this is a clear indication that you have been clenching your teeth at night, and this is definitely something you need to stop. After all, jaw clenching can cause a number of different dental conditions, which tend to be serious. Therefore, it is definitely worth figuring out how to fix this issue, visiting a Restorative Dentist in harrisburg is one of the many solutions out there. So, let’s take a look…

Do you have an issue with clenching? 

Dentists have a name for clenching and grinding of teeth. This is bruxism. It’s called sleep bruxism when you do this during the evening. A lot of times, your dentist will notice the condition. This is because it results in damage to the enamel of the teeth when it becomes serious enough.

There are a number of other symptoms that are associated with jaw clenching. So, let’s take a look at some of the effects that this condition can have on the body…

• Indentations or impressions on your tongue
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Cracked or chipped teeth
• Sore facial or jaw muscles
• Muscle headaches 

You are advised to book an appointment with your dentist to figure out any potential causes if you are currently experiencing any of the clenching symptoms mentioned above. When not addressed properly, bruxism can result in broken or chipped teeth, as well as damage to the tooth enamel. There are some proactive steps you can take to prevent grinding your teeth in your sleep as well.

How to stop clenching your teeth

Anxiety or emotional stress can typically cause most grinding and clenching. To prevent this from happening, the first thing you should do is address any of the stressful situations you are encountering in your life. 

Aside from this, there are some steps you can take to relax prior to going to bed…

• Consider a mouthguard – This can help prevent clenching at night. It’s definitely worth speaking to your dentist about this. A lot of people have one custom made, as this is the most comfortable and effective solution. 
• Get your partner to help – Ask your partner to give you a nudge in the night if he or she hears you sleeping. 
• Practice mindful awareness – Once you start to drift off to sleep, you should become aware of your jaw and the tension you are experiencing. Sometimes, your jaw may start to clench purely because you have put your head on the pillow. Make sure you loosen and relax your jaw muscles and facial muscles. If you wake up during the night, repeat this process. 
• Get rid of those negative thoughts – Last but not least, it’s worth looking into different ways to get rid of negative thoughts before you go to sleep. One option is to write in a journal before you go to bed. This will help you to release those negative thoughts.