Teeth clenching, also known as bruxism, causes a range of symptoms from sore jaw muscles to headaches. If you experience chronic headaches teeth clenching may be the cause. Unlike sleep apnea which is more obvious, bruxism can affect your daily life more discreetly. If untreated, it can also damage teeth and have long-term effects on oral health. For most people, addressing this issues is as simple as visiting the dentist and obtaining an appliance.
Why Does Bruxism Cause Headaches?
Although many clench their teeth during the day, usually due to stress, nighttime bruxism can be involuntary. The danger with this condition is the enormous stress it puts on the smile. Normal chewing exerts a controlled amount of force on teeth whereas bruxism places constant and increased strain. This tension makes jaw muscles tight and less flexible. These muscles extend to the head and neck, and any strain in these areas can cause headaches. Over time the muscle tightness will limit the mobility of these areas and impact sleep quality.
Bruxism and Oral Health
Teeth and restorations are more likely to fracture or be irreparably damaged under the constant strain caused by clenching. When this damage occurs, repairs may be extensive and costly. If a crown or filling was damaged, the solution may not be as simple as replacing the restoration. Additionally, the discomfort one feels after clenching may impact your ability to bite naturally. If treatment is not sought out soon enough both teeth and the bite can be pushed out of alignment.
Treating Bruxism
Your family dentist can easily address clenching with a night guard. These trays are similar to those used for teeth whitening but cover less of the teeth. They disperse bruxism pressure, protecting teeth from damage and relieving the strain. Although this will reduce the effects, it is not a full answer to the condition. Dentists also recommend that patients implement relaxation techniques before going to sleep. Watching TV or using your phone before sleeping has been a proven source of mental stimulation, which can contribute to clenching. Whether with breathing routines, stretching, meditation, or reading, it’s important to try and eliminate potential sources of nighttime stress.
Visit Pleasant Dental Care for Bruxism-Related Headache Treatment
The main concern with bruxism is how it is connected with general health issues, including TMD, dental damage, and chronic headaches. To obtain the help you need, contact Ramin Sani, DMD in Martinez.