Your first reaction to your dentist telling you that you are grinding your teeth while you sleep is surprise. How is that possible? How can I be stressed while I sleep? Yes, stress and anxiety comes out in more ways than your dreams, while you sleep. The medical term for teeth grinding is Bruxism. A dull and constant headache, as well as jaw tension, is a tell-tale symptom of grinding.
Your next reaction is concern; what have I done to my bite — the well-being of my teeth — all while I slept? Yes, grinding can cause long-term wear of your teeth. Then comes the action; what can I do about this problem? Orange County Dentist Dr. Kurt Schneider offers the solution.
Dr. Schneider creates custom-made mouthguards, every day. If you have been living with the discomfort from a clenched jaw, you could have correlated pain in your back, neck and head. Yes, teeth grinding causes problems to your overall well-being and comfort. Mouthguards offer preventative, long-term solutions to your health. We work with you to find the most comfortable mouthguard, so your sleep is restorative, not stress-inducing.
Other tips to manage your stress while you sleep are:
- Cut-back on foods that contain caffeine, especially late at night before sleep.
- Reduce the amount of alcohol that you consume, as grinding has been found to intensify after alcohol consumption.
- Avoid gum chewing, or chewing on pencils, or anything that is not food.
- Practicing jaw relaxation is as easy as visualizing that area of your body in a soothing manner.