Can You Treat Bruxism Naturally?

Grinding your teeth can impact your well-being. Medically known as bruxism, this common condition affects 31% of people in North America at some point. Fortunately, treatments, including natural ones, can alleviate your symptoms.

Our expert team at Swinney Dental in Tyler, Texas, diagnoses and treats bruxism to bring you lasting relief.

Let’s explore bruxism, including natural ways to minimize your symptoms and protect your teeth.

Bruxism basics

Bruxism involves clenching your jaws and grinding your teeth. Most people aren’t even aware it’s happening, whether it unfolds during the day or night.

Noticeable signs of bruxism may include:

Chips, cracks, or flat areas on your teeth
Loose adult teeth
Worn tooth enamel, which causes sensitivity
Jaw, face, or neck soreness
Unusually large jaw muscles
Dull headaches that start at your temples

Once you’re in a pattern of grinding your teeth, your sleep and moods can deteriorate due to its bothersome effects.

Bruxism may stem from anxiety, stress, certain medications, and sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Lifestyle habits, such as consuming excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol, may also contribute.

TMJ problems and bruxism

The more you clench your jaws while grinding your teeth, the more your jaw hinges wear down. So, if bruxism goes untreated, it can lead to a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. One study showed that TMJ symptoms are more than twice as likely in people with bruxism than in those without.

TMJ disorders can cause jaw pain or tenderness, clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw, headaches, and earaches. You might also experience a locked jaw or struggle to chew or speak normally.

By addressing your bruxism quickly, you can likely prevent, reduce, or reverse related TMJ symptoms.

Natural bruxism treatments

Many treatments for bruxism are natural and drug-free, especially for mild to moderate cases. In addition to addressing any underlying condition, helpful bruxism treatments include:

Using a nightguard, which protects your teeth from damage
Using an NTI-tss device, which discourages tooth damage and jaw clenching
Managing stress through practices like mindfulness exercises or therapy
Performing jaw relaxation exercises
Practicing proper mouth and jaw positioning during the day
Reducing your alcohol or caffeine intake

Routine dental checkups can help alleviate bruxism and its effects, too. At your appointments, we can detect and treat related damage before it worsens. We can also guide you through your management options and recommend specific lifestyle remedies.

To learn more about bruxism treatments or get personalized guidance, call Swinney Dental today. You can also schedule an appointment using our convenient online booking feature.