Why Teeth Grinding and Stress Are Related
Undoubtedly, stress has a massive impact on our physical bodies. From headaches and insomnia to nausea, stress can take a toll on our physical health in a number of ways.
One of stress's most common physical symptoms is muscle tension, especially in the jaw. This type of stress-induced facial tension often leads to teeth grinding, which subsequently contributes to a number of oral health problems.
If you suffer from stress-related teeth grinding, you’ve come to the right place! We’re here to discuss the relationship between stress and teeth grinding, symptoms to look out for, and treatment options.
What’s teeth grinding?
Teeth grinding (also called bruxism) is a chronic dental condition characterized by repetitive jaw muscle activity. It’s a very common problem. In fact, about one-third of adults grind or clench their teeth during the day (awake bruxism) or while they’re asleep (sleep bruxism).
You may suffer from the condition if you find yourself grinding, gnashing, or clenching your teeth. Sometimes, you may not even know you’re grinding your teeth until you notice symptoms like worn enamel, jaw pain, or headaches.
The Role of Stress
There are a variety of reasons why people may grind their teeth. They include sleep disorders like sleep apnea, certain medications, excessive drinking, and smoking. But the most common cause of bruxism is stress and anxiety.
Stress can take a toll on the health of your entire body, and your teeth are no exception. Many studies have shown a strong link between anxiety and teeth grinding. When we feel stressed, cortisol and other hormones are released, activating the sympathetic nervous system. This can trigger a range of physical responses, such as sweaty palms, an increased heart rate, and muscle tension – including the muscles in your jaw.
What are the risks of teeth grinding?
Chronic bruxism can greatly affect your oral health and quality of life. Issues that may result from teeth grinding include:
Jaw pain/soreness
TMJ disorders
Headaches
Earaches
Popping/clicking jaw
Worn enamel
Poor sleep
Treatments for teeth grinding
Fortunately, you don’t have to suffer from stress-related teeth grinding forever. There are a number of effective and evidence-based treatment options to help manage bruxism and reduce the associated risks.
Managing stress
Since stress is the most common cause of teeth grinding in adults, taking steps to manage your stress levels may be one of the best ways to reduce jaw clenching and improve your symptoms. For many people, meditation techniques, relaxation, and gentle exercise can help reduce stress.
If you suffer from chronic anxiety, consider contacting your doctor about mental health treatments such as medication or counseling.
Lifestyle and dietary changes
Daily stress isn’t the only thing that can lead to teeth grinding. There are a number of habits that can trigger jaw clenching throughout the day. These may include:
Caffeine
Alcohol
Tobacco
Chewing gum
Poor diet
Making lifestyle changes to avoid these common triggers can be extremely helpful in preventing teeth grinding,
Oral appliances
Oral appliances such as mouthguards are among the most effective treatments for teeth grinding. A mouth guard can be custom-made to fit your smile and is designed to alleviate facial pressure and protect the jaw and teeth from the effects of bruxism.
Mouthguards are usually worn at night but can also be worn during the day – especially while playing sports. If you’re suffering from teeth grinding due to stress, we can provide you with a custom-made mouth guard as part of a holistic treatment plan.
See our expert dentist in Harrisonburg and get healthier teeth and better sleep
Your oral health can affect your entire body. If you’re experiencing teeth grinding or another dental health issue, let our knowledgeable and compassionate team at Batchelor Dentistry help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile. We’re here to provide first-class comprehensive dental care in our office and teach you how to take care of your teeth at home.
Contact us for any questions you have answered and to schedule your appointment today!