Why do I grind my teeth in my sleep?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition characterized by the grinding, gnashing, or clenching of the teeth. It typically occurs during sleep, but can also occur during the day. The exact cause of teeth grinding is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to a combination of factors, including:
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Medications
- Genetics
- Abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth
- Caffeine and alcohol intake
- Other underlying medical conditions
How long does teeth grinding pain last?
The duration of pain associated with teeth grinding can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual. In some cases, the pain may be temporary and may only last for a few days or weeks. However, if the grinding is chronic or severe, the pain can last for longer periods of time and may even become chronic. Additionally, if left untreated, teeth grinding can cause long-term damage to the teeth and jaw, leading to ongoing pain and discomfort.
Grinding teeth in sleep symptoms
- Headaches, especially in the morning
- Jaw pain or soreness
- Pain or soreness in the face, neck, and shoulders
- Earache, a ringing in the ears
- Sensitive teeth
- Tooth wear and chipping, or a flattened or abnormally shaped tooth.
How to stop grinding teeth in sleep naturally?
Following are the top 7 remedies to stop grinding teeth in sleep naturally:
1. Practice good sleep hygiene:
Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleep environment, and avoid stimulating activities before bedtime. This can include turning off electronic devices at least an hour before bed, making sure your room is dark, quiet, and cool, and avoiding heavy meals and caffeine close to bedtime.
2. Relaxation techniques:
Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help calm your mind and body before bedtime. These techniques can help you relax and reduce the muscle tension that can lead to teeth grinding.
3. Exercise:
Regular exercise can help reduce stress and tension, which can contribute to teeth grinding. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, most days of the week.
4. Avoid stimulants:
Caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine can increase the likelihood of teeth grinding, so it is recommended to avoid or minimize these substances, especially in the evening.
5. Jaw exercises:
Certain jaw exercises can help to strengthen the muscles and reduce the likelihood of teeth grinding. These exercises include jaw clenching, tongue thrusting, and lip and cheek puffing.
6. Use a mouthguard:
A dental guard, which can be obtained from a dentist, can be worn at night to protect the teeth from grinding and clenching.
7. Identify and address underlying causes:
Teeth grinding can be caused by stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, or certain medications. Identifying and addressing any underlying causes can help to reduce the likelihood of teeth grinding.
It’s important to note that teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can be a symptom of an underlying issue and should be evaluated by a dentist or physician. And it is advisable to consult a dentist or physician for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Top 6 Best Mouthguards for Teeth Grinding
A mouthguard for teeth grinding, also known as a night guard, is a device worn over the teeth to prevent grinding and clenching during sleep. The main purpose of a mouthguard is to protect the teeth from damage caused by bruxism, which is the medical term for teeth grinding. The mouthguard is worn during sleep, as this is when most people tend to grind their teeth. The mouthguard creates a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from coming into contact with each other and reducing the wear and tear on the teeth and jaw joint. They can be custom-made by a dentist or purchased as an over-the-counter product.
There are many brands of mouthguards available for teeth grinding, and it can be difficult to determine which one is the best. However, based on customer reviews and professional recommendations, some of the top brands for mouthguards for teeth grinding include:
1. The Oral-B Nighttime Dental Guard:
is a type of mouthguard designed to prevent teeth from grinding and clenching during sleep. It is an over-the-counter product that can be purchased at most drugstores or online. The guard is made of a soft, comfortable material that can be easily molded to fit the shape of your teeth. It is designed to fit securely over the upper teeth, providing a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to prevent grinding.
The Oral-B Nighttime Dental Guard also has a unique design that allows for easy breathing and speaking while wearing the guard. It comes with a storage case for hygienic storage.
2. ProDental Mouthguard for Teeth Grinding:
ProDental is a well-known brand that offers a variety of custom-fit night guards. Customers have praised their high-quality materials and comfortable fit, stating that they have noticed a significant reduction in teeth grinding and jaw pain after using ProDental night guards.
3. SleepRight Mouthguard for Teeth Grinding:
SleepRight is another popular brand that offers a variety of night guards for teeth grinding. Customers have noted that the night guards from SleepRight are easy to use, comfortable to wear, and have helped to reduce or eliminate teeth grinding and jaw pain.
4. DenTek Mouthguard for Teeth Grinding:
DenTek is a brand that offers a wide range of night guards, including custom-fit, boil-and-bite, and stock options. Customers have reported that the DenTek night guards are comfortable to wear, easy to clean, and have helped to reduce or eliminate teeth grinding and jaw pain.
5. Ora-Guard Mouthguard for Teeth Grinding:
Ora-Guard is a brand that offers a variety of custom-fit night guards. Customers have praised their high-quality materials and comfortable fit, stating that they have noticed a significant reduction in teeth grinding and jaw pain after using Ora-Guard night guards.
6. Dental Duty Mouthguard for Teeth Grinding:
Dental Duty is a brand that offers a variety of night guards for teeth grinding. Customers have noted that the night guards from Dental Duty are easy to use, comfortable to wear, and have helped to reduce or eliminate teeth grinding and jaw pain.
It’s important to note that everyone’s experience will be different, and some people may find one brand to be more comfortable or effective than others. It’s always best to consult with a dentist or physician before purchasing a mouthguard and to try different options to find the one that works best for you.
