Causes and Treatment for Jaw Clenching

Jaw clenching or also known as Bruxism is the grinding of teeth while sleeping. This can cause headaches and also muscle spasms. Some people are not even aware they are doing it until someone told them about it. In some cases, this habit can even occur while you’re awake. This is not a healthy habit as your jaw might be lost its balance causing some facial disfigurement and can greatly affect the way you smile. If you’re already experiencing bruxism, try out our Services @DrHornsbyDental to help you treat this condition and other dental problems.

What causes jaw clenching?       

Stress is the one cause of jaw clenching according to some Periodontist. When someone is suffering from stress, teeth grinding happens involuntarily when they sleep. You can notice that your jaw muscle is tired upon waking up. This can weaken your teeth when you did not find ways to have it treated.

Anxiety can also be another reason why a person has teeth grinding habits. If you are suffering from an anxiety attack, teeth grinding can be relaxing for you without knowing that it can negatively affect your teeth or your jaw. If you keep on doing this every time, you may suffer from tooth loss even without cavities.

Treatment for jaw clenching       

The best treatment for jaw clenching is to get yourself a mouthguard. Since most cases of bruxism happen when you are sleeping, having a mouthguard can help you avoid the damages of jaw clenching. It can protect your teeth from falling and your jaw joints to stay intact.

If it is a habit when you are awake, it is better to be aware of it the moment you start grinding your teeth. If you have to relax, try to chew gum instead of putting all the force directed to your teeth. Always have gum handy so that you can avoid grinding your teeth in stressful situations.

Being able to control this habit can save you from worse complications. Be aware of the signs of bruxism if you think you might be doing it in your sleep. Also, it is best to have your dental checkup since the dentist can tell if you are positive of bruxism.