Take Charge of Stress Management to Reduce Teeth Grinding Habits
Posted on 5/1/2025 by Joseph Kabaklian DDS |
 Many of us have habits we'd like to break. Nail biting, hair twirling, knuckle cracking – these are just a few examples of common habits that can be annoying or even harmful. But did you know that teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a surprisingly common habit that affects millions of people? In fact, it's estimated that around 1 in 10 adults grind their teeth regularly.
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
While the exact causes of bruxism are still being researched, several factors can contribute to it, including stress, anxiety, sleep disorders like sleep apnea, and certain medications. Teeth grinding can also be a way of dealing with frustration, anger, or even boredom. Interestingly, some people grind their teeth during the day, while others do it at night while they're sleeping.
Why Should You Care About Teeth Grinding?
You might think that teeth grinding is just a harmless habit, but it can actually have serious consequences for your oral health. Over time, grinding can wear down your tooth enamel, leading to increased sensitivity, chipped or cracked teeth, and even tooth loss. In severe cases, bruxism can cause pain in your jaw muscles, headaches, and even earaches.
How to Manage Teeth Grinding
The good news is that there are several things you can do to manage teeth grinding and protect your oral health. Here are a few tips:
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Manage stress: Since stress is a major contributor to teeth grinding, finding ways to manage stress is crucial. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and spending time in nature can be incredibly helpful. |
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Practice good sleep hygiene: If you grind your teeth at night, improving your sleep hygiene can make a big difference. This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed. |
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Talk to your dentist: Your dentist can help you identify the underlying causes of your teeth grinding and recommend the best treatment options for you. Depending on the severity of your bruxism, they may recommend a mouth guard to wear at night, relaxation techniques, or even stress management counseling. |
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See an orthodontist: In some cases, an orthodontist may be able to help correct any underlying bite problems that are contributing to your teeth grinding. |
Taking Charge of Your Oral Health
By taking charge of your stress management and working with your dentist, you can effectively reduce teeth grinding and protect your oral health. Remember, even small changes can make a big difference. So, take the first step today and start exploring ways to manage stress and break the teeth grinding habit for good!
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