Stress is a big piece of our lives. It is a practically unavoidable part of modern life, and it can show up in many ways, including teeth grinding. At Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Gittleman sees many patients who grind their teeth due to stress. While many see stress as an issue for your mind, it can eventually become a problem for your oral health. Dr. Gittleman wants to keep your smile healthy from all potential dental issues, especially stress. Understanding how stress and teeth grinding are connected can help you manage this problem and protect your teeth.
Understanding Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is when you grind or clench your teeth, often without realizing it. This can happen during the day or at night while you sleep. While grinding your teeth once in a while might not be harmful, doing it often can lead to serious problems for your teeth and overall health.
When you’re stressed, your muscles tense up, including the muscles in your jaw. This tension can make you grind or clench your teeth. Stress also affects your sleep, making it harder to get a good night’s rest. Poor sleep can increase teeth grinding, creating a cycle that’s hard to break. Anxiety, which often comes with stress, can also make you more likely to grind your teeth. Unfortunately, people with anxiety disorders are more prone to teeth grinding.
Health Effects of Teeth Grinding
Your enamel is the outermost portion of your teeth. It is a protective layer that keeps bacteria and other damaging materials from inside your teeth. Grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel. This can make your teeth sensitive, more likely to crack, or even lead to tooth loss. It can also cause pain in your jaw and lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Many people with bruxism also suffer from headaches, especially in the morning, due to the constant clenching and grinding during sleep.
Managing Stress to Reduce Teeth Grinding
Reducing stress can help stop teeth grinding. Relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can help calm your mind and reduce muscle tension. Regular exercise is also a great way to manage stress and improve your mood. Keeping a consistent sleep routine and creating a relaxing bedtime environment can help you sleep better, reducing nighttime grinding. Sometimes, talking to a counselor or therapist can help manage anxiety and stress, addressing the root cause of your teeth grinding.
Additional Tips from Dr. Gittleman
Dr. Gittleman suggests that using a custom-fitted mouthguard at night can protect your teeth from the damage caused by grinding. The soft material of the mouthguard provides a cushion between your teeth that absorbs the damage to your enamel. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, especially before bed, can also help improve your sleep and reduce teeth grinding.
If you think stress is causing you to grind your teeth, Dr. Gittleman at Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry is here to help. Reach out to us for advice and treatment options tailored to your needs.