If you or someone you love grinds their teeth involuntarily, it can cause a myriad of health concerns, not to mention the discomfort you may experience. By definition, bruxism is when you clench or grind your teeth without realizing it; this condition can occur in children, adolescents, or adults. Unfortunately, there is no cure for bruxism, but there are some treatments to decrease your symptoms. So, how can you stop clenching your teeth? Keep reading to find out.
What Are the Symptoms of Bruxism?
Bruxism often occurs while you’re sleeping, so if you wake up with any of the following symptoms, contact your Northwest Arkansas dentist for an appointment:
- Jaw pain
- Facial pain
- Headaches
- Jaw dislocation or locking
- Overly sensitive teeth
Bruxism Treatment Options
There are a variety of ways to decrease your bruxism symptoms, and your dentist may recommend any of the following:
Mouthguard
Your dentist may recommend a mouthguard to keep you from clenching your teeth when you’re asleep. A mouthguard can keep your teeth from touching and hold your jaw in a particular position, improving your sleep quality and reducing your symptoms.
Massage
A head and neck massage may relieve the tension and pain associated with teeth clenching.
Exercises
You can do specific exercises to stretch and relax the muscles associated with your bruxism.
Stress Reduction
Stress is believed to be a common contributor to bruxism, so practicing relaxation techniques and good sleep habits can help you relieve your symptoms.
Medication
For severe cases of bruxism, your dentist may recommend medications to decrease facial muscle movement.
We understand that you need someone to listen to you and help relieve your pain. You can count on our dental team to determine the best treatment plan for your situation. Your oral and mental health are essential to us.
Do You Need Bruxism Treatment in Fayetteville, AR?
If you have been clenching or grinding your teeth and you live in Northwest Arkansas, the dental team at Northwest Arkansas Family Dental can help! We can assess your condition and recommend treatment options for you. You can reach our dental office at (479) 521-2002 for more information or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you.