Teeth Grinding & Stress

Life can be stressful, but leave your teeth out of it.  Stress can be a major cause of teeth grinding. Unfortunately, it’s hard to know whether or not you’ve been grinding all night unless you have some symptoms, like a dull and constant headache, a sore jaw, or cold sensitivity.

Teeth grinding can cause serious problems, such as fracturing and lose of teeth, causing the need for root canals, crowns, bridges, or dental implants.

A mouth guard can protect your teeth, but if stress is the cause be sure to ask your doctor about some additional remedies for stress-relief.

Some other tips for teeth grinding:

1. Avoid alcohol and caffeine

2. Do not chew on gum, pencils, ice or anything that is not food.

3. Relax during the day, if you notice clenching – release your muscles.

4. Limit hard foods, which put excessive pressure on your joints – such as nuts and hard candies.

5. Use anit-inflammatory medications such as IB Profin, to relieve symptoms if necessary.