If you ever wonder how to stop clenching your teeth at night, then we've got your guide to better sleep. Teeth clenching is known as
bruxism. You may not even realize you're doing it. But it can also keep you up at night. The signs of
teeth clenching include:
- Dull headaches
- Either a sore jaw or facial muscles
- Sensitive teeth
- Either Chipped or cracked teeth
- Loose teeth
- Both impressions and indentations on your tongue
Bruxism should not be dismissed.
Talk to your dentist to see what the causes are and what you can do to stop it. Here are some tips to stop clenching your teeth.
Drinking caffeine or eating foods that contain caffeine can cause you to tense up and clench your teeth more frequently. Cut back on caffeine, especially before you go to sleep, to help your jaw relax.
Exercising makes your body more tired, allowing you to get better sleep. Just make sure to exercise during the day. Not close to bedtime.
Teeth clenching is usually caused by stress. So it's important to relax before bedtime. Drink a stress relief tea, do yoga or meditation and either massage or stretch your muscles to relax them.
Chewing on pencils or other objects can increase your likeliness to clench your teeth. Avoid chewing gum as well as it causes your jaw to tighten up.
Your dentist can diagnose if you have bruxism. He or she may prescribe a mild muscle relaxer to help you stop clenching your teeth. If your bruxism is extreme, your dentist can fit you with a nightguard as well.