Bruxism or teeth grinding is common among kids and generally happens during sleep or stress. Even middle-aged adults are found to grind their teeth while asleep. If you or your child finds symptoms of Bruxism, you can try out these home remedies to supplement treatment and kick this habit.
Remedies to Keep Teeth Grinding at Bay Practice Muscle Stretching Exercises
Muscle stretching exercises reduce the discomfort related to tooth grinding. These are:
- Mindful Teeth Placement: Try to keep a little gap between your upper and lower teeth to stop grinding or clenching. Do this exercise all the time, except while chewing.
- Jaw Exercise: Open your mouth as wide as you comfortably can and try to touch your tongue to your front teeth. This exercise helps to rest your jaw muscles.
Hot Towel/ Compress
If you unconsciously clench your teeth, a warm compress can help muscles to relax and raise blood circulation in that part. Use the hot compress for 15 minutes and then repeat the process on the opposite side. You can also try this with a hot towel.
Meditate and also Practice Yoga
When you meditate, sit calmly and focus your mind in silence. Don’t allow thoughts to wander your mind. You can even practice yoga to manage stress levels.
Eat Magnesium-Rich Food
Change in your diet also helps you quit your grinding habit. Magnesium aids in relaxation and regulates mood. Have magnesium-rich foods like boiled spinach, black-eyed peas, avocados, bananas, yogurt, fish, dark chocolate, and flaxseed.
Drink Turmeric Milk
Turmeric contains anti-inflammatory properties that give relief to your aching jaw muscles. And the acid present in milk helps relax your nervous system and promotes sound sleep. If you don’t like the taste add a little honey. Drink a glass every day before going to bed for the best results.
Drink Herbal Tea
When you drink herbal tea, it naturally reduces your stress, relaxes your body and mind, and helps remain calm. Drink a cup of warm green tea before bed.
Try Bite guard
Mouthguards are also known as night guards, bite splints, or dental splints. If you wear a bite splint overnight, it can vanish grinding habits and can prevent damage to teeth. You can buy one from a drugstore or get one custom-made by your dentist.
Note: Store-bought models may not be durable or well-fitted.
Epsom Salt Baths
Epsom salts contain detoxing elements that wash away the toxins and heavy metals from your body. Epsom salt baths help you to relax, soothe your muscles and also alleviate stress.
Avoid hard and sticky foods
Stay away from foods like popcorn, nuts, and hard candies. Don’t chew gum.
Include Vitamin B and C in your Diet
Vitamin B-rich foods such as potatoes, vegetables in the cabbage family, fish, chicken, and seafood can help decrease psychological stress and fight depression.
Vitamin C benefits the adrenal glands. It can be found in many fruits and vegetables, such as citruses and peppers, papaya, guava, strawberries, and many more. You can also opt for supplements.
What are the Symptoms of Teeth Grinding?
- painful teeth
- face, jaw, ear, and neck pain
- chipped or cracked teeth
- worn tooth enamel
- fatigue
- flattened biting surfaces
- headaches
- loose teeth
- problems while opening or closing your jaw
- sleep disorders
- damaged fillings and crowns
What are the Causes of Teeth Grinding?
- Stress and anxiety
- Smoking
- Consuming alcohol
- Intake of caffeine
- Depression
- Suffering from obstructive sleep apnea
Final Words
Mild teeth grinding is not harmful and also doesn’t require treatment. But if it becomes often, it is crucial to receive dental care.
Now, if you’re looking for the best dentist in Cincinnati, OH, to receive quality care and treatment for teeth grinding issues, then visit us at MK Dental Excellence. Our dentist will be able to investigate the significant health problems that arise and recommend appropriate steps to help you resolve the problems. You can call us or book an appointment.