Relax That Jaw! How To Stop Jaw-Clenching

Clenching your jaw and teeth grinding (also referred to as bruxism)  are sneaky habits that can creep up over time. The damage is barely noticeable at first. However, when it goes on too long it can lead to headaches, toothache and jaw pain. There are a few culprits that lead to jaw-clenching, with one being life itself. Day to day stress requires coping mechanisms, 2pm chocolate bar anyone? One of the things we end up doing when stressed is, you guessed it – jaw clenching. Other causes can be teeth misalignment, sleep issues and lifestyle habits. Whatever the reason, the good news is you can give it up and make life more comfortable. Let’s explore more about why you might be jaw-clenching, and most importantly – how to stop.

Why Are You Clenching Your Jaw?

The first place to start if you want to stop jaw clenching is figure out what’s causing it. These are some of the most common reasons for tense jaws. 

Emotional Stress

Emotional stress and anxiety can present themselves in many ways, one of which is a tightly clenched jaw. You probably don’t even notice you are even doing it. This can sometimes happen during sleep. Try and tap into your physical reactions when you are feeling stressed, you may find clenching your jaw is a response mechanism. Understanding this is the starting point to giving it up. 

Sleep Disruption

Waking up with a tight jaw? You may be clenching throughout the night. If you have a sleep routine that is out of whack or are not fully relaxed before you drift-off, bruxism can be a response. Check in with yourself in the morning and if your jaw is feeling sore, this could be a sign you are clenching in your sleep. 

Dental Issues

As leading dentists, the team at LoveTeeth often find dental issues can result in jaw-clenching. These can be an uneven bite, missing teeth or broken crowns. To rule out dental issues causing teeth grinding, it is best to book in for an assessment at your local clinic. 

What Are The Symptoms Of Jaw-Clenching?

If you are experiencing any of the following, it could be time to work on relaxing that jaw…

Headaches

The tension of jaw-clenching can sometimes result in headaches. They may be present in the daytime or early in the morning. 

Jaw Ache

An achy jaw is a common tell-tale sign of clenching. Again, this may be most prominent in the morning. 

Teeth-Sensitivity

Increased teeth sensitivity can be caused by consistent grinding. At this point it is best to check in with your dentist so they can assess the extent of damage. 

So, How Can You Relax Your Jaw? 

Treatment options for jaw-clenching depend on what is causing it, how long it has been going on and how it is affecting your lifestyle. Once a dentist has confirmed the cause, these are some of the most effective cures for a tight jaw. 

Try a Customised Mouth Guard

This could be recommended if you are mostly clenching your jaw at night. The mouth guard can comfortably prevent and protect you from the aches and pain of teeth grinding and be easily put on before you go to bed. 

Explore Braces

If teeth misalignment is the cause of your jaw-clenching, wearing braces or aligners will gently get your smile back on track. These can be worn for a period of time recommended by your dentist resulting in a straighter, healthy smile. 

Make Simple Lifestyle Changes

Finally, simple lifestyle changes could make a big difference. Trying to ensure you schedule wind down time, rest and relaxation into your day can reduce stress and emotional overwhelm. So book that massage, take a break and switch off properly before bed. You will be sure to wake up smiling. 

Key Take Aways

Jaw-clenching is increasingly common in today’s fast-paced world. Teeth grinding can be a response to daily stress that quickly becomes a bad habit. Over time this can cause headaches, jaw aches and dental problems. To identify the cause a quick dental assessment can be the best place to start. Treatment options depend on what is causing you to clench your jaw and include customised mouth guards, orthodontics and making simple lifestyle changes.

Time to relax your jaw? Book an appointment at Love Teeth today.