Have you ever woke up feeling pain in your jaw or even your teeth? Teeth grinding, otherwise known as bruxism, is actually pretty common. In fact, a lot of people don’t know they’re grinding their teeth (since they’re asleep, of course). although it can occur at any age, it is most common in children and usually happens during sleep or stress.
Occasionally teeth grinding may not cause any serious problems, but if the habit becomes more frequent and severe, then it can lead to complications like jaw pain, headaches, and even dental damage. Needless to say, it’s not good, and it’s going to have some long-term damage on that smile. So, if you want to stop teeth grinding, whether it be you or your kids, here’s what you need to know!
Try Out Some Exercises
If you’re wanting to keep that fantastic smile, then it’s all going to start with getting you mentally aware that you’re clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth. Regular exercise is great for relieving stress and anxiety. If you are prone to clench your jaw in response to stress, try placing the tip of your tongue against the backs of your top teeth. This will prevent you from clenching your teeth and helps to relax your jaw muscles. In general, when you’re straining yourself physically or mentally, you might be grinding to clinching without realizing it. So doing this is going to help you get aware.
Relax with Herbal Tea
The main goal is to relax the muscles, so drinking a warm cup of non-caffeinated herbal tea can help relax your jaw muscles and reduce your clenching and grinding. Chamomile and green tea can be particularly helpful. The soothing effects of these natural remedies can help you get to sleep and wake up with less pain and a healthier mouth.
You’ll Have to Avoid Caffiene
As mentioned above, non-caffeinated tea helps, and there’s a reason it needs to be non-caffeinated. Caffeinated drinks can trigger clenching and grinding and can lead to damaged enamel. Try to limit your coffee intake to a single cup per day or less.
Make a Visit to the Dentist
People don’t always realize that they grind their teeth, particularly during sleep. They may only realize when they wake up with a headache or sore jaw. Fortunately, your dentist can instantly fix this issue for you (most of the time). Your dentist can offer mouth guards, occlusal splints, or biofeedback treatments to help you stop grinding your teeth. The appointments don’t have to last long, and you won’t even need to see them frequently about this either.
Consider Using a Hot Compress Before Bed
One of the most natural ways to stop bruxism is to use a hot compress. Soak a washcloth in hot water, wring out the excess water, and apply it on your neck, jaw, and mouth area. This will relax the muscles and will also get blood circulating to reduce pain. It is best to repeat this 4-5 a couple of times before bed. Sometimes, just drinking a warm drink can help, or even a warm shower right before bed. The end goal is to use heat to release muscles.