Bruxism is a condition that causes people to grind their teeth. This can lead to several problems, such as tooth wear, headaches, and jaw pain. There are several ways to help prevent bruxism, including using a mouthguard and getting a head and neck massage.
Massage
A head and neck massage can help to reduce stress and tension in the muscles of the neck and head. This can help to reduce the risk of bruxism developing. In addition, a head and neck massage can also help to alleviate any pain or tension that may be caused by bruxism.
Medical and Dental Treatments
Medical and dental treatments are available for people who suffer from sleep bruxism. However, not everyone needs treatment. Some people may only experience mild symptoms, and can manage the condition by making some lifestyle changes.
If you do experience severe symptoms, or if your bruxism is causing damage to your teeth, you may need to see a dentist or doctor. Treatment options include mouthguards, dental braces, and Botox injections.
It is important to seek medical help if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort as a result of bruxism. Untreated bruxism can lead to more serious health problems, such as headaches, jaw pain, and tooth damage.
Mouthguards
Mouthguards can be extremely effective in preventing bruxism. They fit over the teeth and help to cushion them, which prevents the teeth from grinding together. This can help to reduce the likelihood of developing any long-term damage as a result of bruxism. Wearing a mouthguard at night is often the most effective way to prevent bruxism. This is because it can stop the teeth from grinding together while you are asleep.
If you think that you may benefit from wearing a mouthguard, then it is important to speak to your dentist about it. They will be able to advise you on the best type of mouthguard for your needs and can even custom-make one for you if necessary.
Stress Reductions
Bruxism can often be caused or exacerbated by stress. When you are feeling stressed, your body may tense up and this can lead to the grinding of your teeth. Reducing stress can be a helpful way to prevent bruxism from occurring. There are a number of different ways that you can reduce stress in your life. Some people find that relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can be helpful. Others find that exercise or spending time with friends and family can help to reduce stress levels. It is important to find what works best for you and to make time for it in your busy schedule.
Medication
There are a few different medications that can be prescribed in order to help prevent bruxism. One common type of medication is a muscle relaxant, which helps to keep the muscles in the jaw relaxed. Another option is a medication called clonazepam, which is used to treat anxiety disorders and can help to reduce the likelihood of teeth grinding.
Conclusion
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can be a difficult habit to break. It can lead to dental problems down the line if it’s not addressed and corrected. In this article we have outlined some methods that you can use at home to help prevent bruxism from occurring in the first place. We hope that these tips will help keep your smile healthy and free from any long-term damage.