Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that occurs either in your wake or while you’re asleep which affects approximately 13% of adults and about 15% of children. Although occasional teeth grinding doesn’t pose any harm at first, bruxism becomes quite alarming when it begins to disturb your sleep coupled with facial pain and damaged teeth. Bruxism is an unconscious habit and one of the telltale signs is if a dentist notices a fractured tooth enamel. The actual cause isn’t always clear-cut and there’s no actual evidence, but it’s generally agreed upon that the possible links to bruxism include:
- High levels of stress and anxiety
- Sleep apnea, where you experience interrupted breathing while sleeping which means that your brain isn’t getting enough oxygen
- Harmful lifestyle factors, including excessive alcohol intake and caffeinated drinks, smoking, and recreational drugs such as cocaine
- Side effects from psychiatric medications and antidepressants
- Dental misalignment, where the teeth are so misaligned that it causes a contraction of certain muscle groups
What Are Some Ways To Prevent Teeth Grinding?
An appropriate solution for your bruxism is all dependent on certain situations. For example, if misaligned teeth is the root of the problem, investing on braces should be considered. Even though there are night mouth guards that are readily available over-the-counter, a dentistry in Toronto offers a more personalized oral device that meets the ideal fit for your teeth. Going to your dentist and physician is one of the best solutions that will help you find ways to alleviate the symptoms, but there are other approaches to treat bruxism through periods of relaxation and calm such as:
- Taking the time of your day to unwind: if you think the cause of your frequent teeth grinding is more stress-related, consider finding exercises or activities that will calm your nerves and put your body in ease. It can be as simple as taking a warm bubble bath or watching movies in your comfortable bed!
- Avoiding stimulating drinks in excessive rates such as alcohol and caffeine, which intensify the teeth grinding
- Avoiding recreational drugs including heroin, meth, and ecstasy
- Practicing healthy sleep habits: This is definitely easier said than done, but getting into the habit of sleeping early not only helps you feel rejuvenated – healthier sleeping habits lead to better-looking teeth and a healthier lifestyle
- Committing yourself to daily jaw exercises, where physical therapists and chiropractors play a role in recommending exercises that is quick and easy
- Indulging on natural remedies of teeth grinding prevention that aim to ease your muscles such as:
- Using warm compresses
- Herbal tea and essential oils.
- Making yourself a warm cup of turmeric milk:
- Milk aids you with sleeping soundly
- Turmeric enhances health benefits and pain relief
For more information on how to improve your oral health and hygiene, contact us today.
