Bruxism is the grinding, clenching, or gnashing of teeth. Several people do it even without realizing it. If you ever wake up from your sleep with sore teeth and jaws, this could be the effect of grinding your teeth. This condition affects people of all ages, from children to adults. There are different ways to stop grinding your teeth and to prevent tooth damage, jaw disorders, and headache.

Teeth grinding may be caused by stress, anxiety, depression, abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth. They can be treated at home, but the best option is to visit your dentist. Here are some tips that can help you stop grinding your teeth.

1. Consult Your Doctor

Higher levels of stress can have an effect on your sleep and may trigger episodes of bruxism. It may be signs of stress, anxiety, or depression. It may not just be your dentist, but it may also be your therapist that can help you aid these kinds of things. Therapists can help you with techniques to manage those negative feelings.

2. Watch What Your Eat

Reduce your caffeine and alcohol intake. Caffeine can be found from soda, coffee, and energy drinks. Even in some types of chocolates. Caffeine is a stimulant which will make it more difficult for you to relax the muscles of your jaw and your mind. While alcohol is a depressant which will make it more difficult for you to sleep well.

From the study of Journal of Oral Science, magnesium plays a vital role in healthy nerve and muscle function. Foods such as spinach, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and chard are all good sources of magnesium.

3. Practice Good Sleep Habits

Having a good night’s sleep is essential in reducing your stress. Try to relax before going to bed by having a warm glass of milk, warm bath, listen to music or read a good book. If you are having sleep problems, then it is time to talk to your doctor.

4. Use Mouth Guards or Night Guards

Mouth guards may help reduce muscle activity in your jaw at night. They are only able to control the condition, not cure it. The mouth guard will create a barrier between your upper and lower teeth to avoid the pressure across your jaw. A mouth guard can be custom made by your dentist to fit your mouth to provide utmost comfort and protection.

Regular visits to your dentist is one of the most recommended thing to do to help stop grinding your teeth. Your dentist will know how to prevent the dental problems that can be caused by grinding your teeth.

Looking for a dentist to help you stop grinding your teeth? Visit our dental clinic in Manila or contact us today! We also have branches in Lingayen and Calasiao, Pangasinan.