How to Stop Teeth Grinding
Oral Health Blog

How to Stop Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is a common problem that can be really frustrating to deal with. It can be caused by various factors, like stress, anxiety, and boredom. In this article, we’re going to teach you how to stop teeth grinding, so you can finally get some peace and quiet!

What are the Causes of Teeth Grinding?

Teeth grinding is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include:

- Stress from tooth pain or dental work

- Jaw tension from clenching and grinding teeth during sleep or when chewing food

- Jaw misalignment, can be caused by a variety of factors, including jaw surgeries, poor oral hygiene, and off-center bite patterns

- Poor oral health habits, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and using mouthwash that contains harsh chemicals

Tips to Stop Teeth Grinding

If you’re like most people, you grind your teeth at night. In fact, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), more than 50 percent of adults grind their teeth at night. While it might not seem like a big deal, grinding your teeth can lead to problems.

Here are some tips to help you stop teeth grinding:

1. Stop drinking cold drinks.

A cold drink causes your jaw muscles to work harder and can cause you to grind your teeth. Instead, try drinking warm drinks or water with ice cubes.

2. Switch to a soft toothbrush.

Hard toothbrushes can cause your teeth to chip and break down over time, which can lead to grinding. Try using a soft brush instead.

3. Bite on hard objects when you’re not grinding your teeth.

This will help keep your jaw muscles from working so hard and will prevent you from damaging your teeth.

4. Ask your dentist for help if you’re struggling to stop teeth grinding.

Your dentist may be able to prescribe a dental aid that will help you stop grinding quickly and easily.

Home Remedies to Stop Teeth Grinding

If you’re finding that your teeth are grinding together and it’s causing pain, there are a few things you can do to try and remedy the situation. Here are some home remedies to stop teeth grinding:

1) Drink plenty of water.

This is one of the most important things you can do to help prevent teeth from grinding. The extra moisture will help lubricate your mouth and reduce the need for teeth to grind against each other.

2) Wear a splint or neck brace when sleeping.

If you find that you’re grinding your teeth at night, wearing a splint or neck brace will help to keep your jaw in a fixed position, preventing it from moving around and causing more tooth grinding.

3) Take ibuprofen or paracetamol before bedtime.

These medications can help to relieve pain and inflammation, which can lead to tooth grinding.

4) Eat softer foods.

Harder foods cause our jaws to work harder, which can lead to tooth grinding. Try eating softer foods like fruit instead of crunching on hard snacks throughout the day.

5) Use a pacifier during sleep if you’re struggling with tooth grinding.

This will help to calm your nerves and stop the teeth from grinding.

6) Use a mouthguard.

A mouthguard helps reduce stress on the jawbone and can help prevent teeth grinding. You can find a variety of different types of mouthguards at most stores. If that doesn't work, you can try using over-the-counter products that are designed to stop teeth grinding.

7) Use a water flosser.

If you're experiencing teeth grinding, one of the first things you should do is to try using a water flosser. This will help to break up the food that's causing your teeth to hurt. Just make sure to use the water flosser from B. Weiss as they come with a soft mode to reduce tooth sensitivity while flossing.

8) Additionally, consume foods that contain magnesium.

Magnesium helps to relieve tension and alleviate pain in the jaw muscles. Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the body. It helps to regulate blood sugar levels, helps to keep muscles and nerves functioning properly, and helps to prevent tooth grinding. Some foods that are high in magnesium include oats, black beans, spinach, and salmon. 

Over-the-Counter Treatments for Teeth Grinding

There are many over-the-counter treatments that can be used to stop teeth grinding. Some of the most common are rinses with essential oils, fluoride treatments, and numbing gels. It is important to find a treatment that works well for you and your mouth.

Conclusion

Teeth grinding can be a real pain, and it's not just a problem for people who have dental problems. Anyone suffering from anxiety or stress can also develop teeth grinding due to the tension those conditions create in the jaw and neck.

 

Disclaimer:

The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen. The author and publisher do not take responsibility for any consequences resulting from the information provided in this article.