Stop Grinding your teeth

Are you nervous? Are you angry? Are you worried?

Are you grinding your teeth?

Teeth grinding is one of the most common forms for people to react emotionally. Under usual circumstances, teeth grinding and the clenched jaw do not have negative effects. However, it can cause damage to your jaws and teeth when you are a chronic teeth grinder. The medical term for this is bruxism.

Bruxism is where you unconsciously grind your teeth for long hours. It often occurs when you are asleep.



Symptoms of Bruxism

- Headache

You experience random and consistent headaches throughout the day. Grinding puts unnecessary strain and pressure on your face structure.

- A Sore Jaw

Do you feel a big discomfort in your jaw when you wake up in the morning? This is caused by grinding your teeth throughout the night. It may also carry on through the day causing annoyance when talking and eating.

A good way to check if you suffer from bruxism is have someone check you while you're asleep.

The harm of Bruxism

You may be wondering what the big fuss about grinding your teeth is. Teeth grinding slowly causes damage to your teeth. It's a long drawn process where you are straining your tooth and its nerve roots which will eventually result in loss of your teeth.

Your brides, crown and teeth structure are slowly worn down. In really bad cases, teeth are known be worn down to stumps. Your teeth may even get loose and fall off because of the constant pressure on the jaws which makes its muscles weak.

Stop Grinding your Teeth

- Don't be Stressed out

The main cause for grinding your teeth is because you are stressed out. Try and relax, especially before you go to sleep. Listen to some soothing music and sleep with a blank mind.

If you find this doesn't work, consider talking to a professional or purchasing muscle relaxants.

- Avoid Caffeine

Avoid chocolates, coffee and other consumables that have caffeine in it.Caffeine contains a muscle stimulant.

- Make it a Habit not to Chew on Pencils and Pens

Many who suffer from bruxism commonly chew on pens and pencils throughout the day. If you do so, stop it.

- Train yourself to unclench your jaw

Become aware of how often you clench your jaw during the day. By doing so, you can train your jaws to relax and not get clenched as a reflex.

- A warm wash cloth over your jaw

One way to relax your jaw muscles before you sleep is to place a warm wet cloth over your jaw.

Clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth is a very unconscious behavior. Stay alert and watch out for the symptoms otherwise you will wear down your teeth and gums.

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